This year's press launch of the Harley-Davidson CVO models happened to take place in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, hometown to some of America's favourite suds, sausages and, of course, the Motor Company itself.
The 2008 launch of the CVO Screamin' Eagle models, which also happens to include a few of the company's 105th anniversary models, had some surprises and some let downs. All right, let downs is pretty harsh, maybe I should say, minor disappointments.
For those who don't know, CVO stands for Custom Vehicle Operations, and that is exactly what these bikes are, custom through and through. Surprises were to be expected considering the CVO lineup showcases Harley-Davidson's top of the line production motorcycles with lots and lots of goodies thrown in the mix. These bikes provide a rolling showcase for the company's Parts and Accessories Department and lets everyone know that the company means business when it comes to dressing up your new Milwaukee iron. It also creates awareness for the owners of older Harleys of what can be done and chances are some of that bling may be available for those bikes as well. Enough about talking anything older than 2008, lets get into what's new with these factory customs.
As I mentioned, there was lots of excitement and a little disappointment with this year's models. Since the disappointment was a minor issue I'll get it out of the way and then I'll let you in on some of the exciting stuff.
The new 2008 models that were selected as being worthy of brandishing the CVO medallion are... well... they're the same models as last year. Not that there is anything wrong with once again making the Softail Springer, the Dyna, the Road King and the Ultra Classic CVO models. I just think that many were expecting a somewhat different line-up. I had heard rumours from many riders on the road that they thought the Road Glide would be one of the selected few but it isn't to be, at least not this year. See, that wasn't too disappointing. Now on to the exciting stuff.
First off, all the CVO models have the largest engine offered by Harley-Davidson. The Twin Cam 110 is just that, 110 ci (1800 cc) and as the size indicates, they deliver a large wallop of torque. All four models come with a new engine colour called 'Granite' which includes stainless steel flakes in the paint. Toss in some chrome against the granite and the combination is very impressive. The Twin Cam 110 is mated to Harley-Davidson's Cruise Drive six-speed transmission and provides a nice touch when travelling on the larger highways, as owners of the 2007 Twin Cams already know. I was riding through the prairies this summer on my own bike with a five-speed and I sure could have used a sixth gear. While I was test-riding the CVO Softail Springer at 80 km/h in sixth gear, the engine was only revving at approximately 1,800 rpm. With the price of fuel these days, that should save a few bucks over the long run while giving a nice low rumble out of the shotgun slash down mufflers. Even at 1,800 rpm, the 110 ci engine had plenty of torque to safely pass a car, but downshifting makes the same pass a lot more fun. The Ultra was the only one of the four that seemed a little slow on the uptake and although it shares the 115 ft lbs of torque with the Road King, the FLH tips the scales at a whopping 408 kg (901 lbs) in running order whereas the Road King slides in at 356 kg (786 lbs) ready to ride. No wonder the Ultra is slower, lugging around an extra 100 plus pounds. While the Softail and the Dyna weigh in at a comparatively svelte 335 kg (740 lbs) and 316 kg (698 lbs), respectively, soaking wet. The spec sheet also rates these 110 engines torque output to be 110 ft lbs for the Softail and 105 ft lbs for the Dyna, all torque specs are at 3000 rpm.
While all the models share some unique features like colour matched frames and body components, internal handlebar wiring for a much cleaner look up front, among many other items, it's the individual items that set these bikes apart from each other, and from the previous year. These customs carry way too many accessories to list here, but some of the highlights follow. Each CVO family will also have a 105th anniversary model that includes a special paint package available in very limited numbers...
... MMM
To read more of this shortened article, be sure to pick up this issue of Motorcycle Mojo Magazine. Current Issues are available at Chapters/Indigo and other fine newsstands across Canada and by subscription. Previous issues are available in the Mojo Store.
