10 Best Harley-Davidson CVO Models, Ranked By Power (2024)

For Harley-Davidson riders, there is no greater pinnacle of style, comfort, and performance than a CVO. Short for Custom Vehicle Option, Harley-Davidson has been producing CVOs every year since 1999. These limited-edition motorcycles are known for being extremely stylish, come equipped with the latest riding technology, and are geared up with the pinnacle of riding performance right from the factory. CVOs generally fetch a higher MSRP than the rest of the lineup. But it's a price well justified if you're a true H-D fan.

After 25 years of consistent CVO production, these motorcycles have become more and more powerful. As Harley's engines continued to evolve, generating more horsepower and torque, so did the brand's overall lineup. But when it comes to CVOs, they are the ones looking to have the most cubic inches in the lot. So let's take a closer look at some of the most iconic and powerful CVO models throughout the years.

10 1999 CVO FXR3

Horsepower: 60 HP

Long before CVOs were loaded up with every high-tech gadget, flashy paint job, and advanced engine system right from the factory, they were just limited-edition cruisers. When Harley-Davidson first began the CVO line in 1999, they introduced the FXR2 and FXR3. The FXR line was already a success before production halted in 1995, so the company kicked things off with a very rare version of the cruiser with an estimated 921 total units ever produced. Though Harley-Davidson considered the FXR2 and FXR3 to be the final revival of the FXR line, it marked the beginning of their new CVO line.

Performance Specifications

(Specs sourced from Harley-Davidson and Nightrider)

Model Highlights

• First-year CVO
• Very rare, limited-edition FXR variant
• Approximately 921 units ever produced
• Exclusive Candy Green Flames paint job

9 2004 CVO Deuce

Horsepower: 65 HP

One motorcycle that enjoyed a brief time in Harley-Davidson's cruiser lineup at the beginning of the 20th century was the one-and-only Deuce. While this bike was partially inspired by factory choppers, it was certainly a lot heavier than it looked (all 688 pounds of it). The 2004 CVO Deuce certainly made an impression on the highway when it was outfitted with a Twin Cam 95B engine fed by an electronically controlled fuel injection system for immediate acceleration. It was also given several visual enhancements, such as a unique color scheme with a color-matched frame, three-spoke wheels, a raked-out fork, a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, dual slash-cut exhaust pipes, wide handlebars, and lots of chrome accents. For cruisers that were admitted into the ranks of CVOs, the Deuce always stands out as one of the rare bikes that followed the assignment very well.

Performance Specifications

(Specs sourced from Harley-Davidson and Auto Evolution)

Model Highlights

• Low riding position
• Twin Cam 95B engine
• Two-person seat
• Raked-out front fork

8 2006 CVO Fat Boy

Horsepower: 90 HP

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The Fat Boy isn't known for being one of Harley-Davidson's overly flashy models. Yes, it has a muscular build, beefy steamroller tires, and a low-profile stance. But the 2006/2007 era of Harley-Davidson gave the Fat Boy the rare opportunity of being admitted into the CVO family with features not included on standard models. That included Screamin' Eagle branded performance parts, a Stroker Twin Cam 103 engine tuned to deliver 96 pound-feet, several two-tone color schemes, and forged aluminum wheels. Ostrich leather seats, chrome accents, gold leaf in the paint, pinstripes painted by hand, and the ability to attach your GPS and iPod further elevated the package. Although 2006 was the only time the Fat Boy had been part of the CVO family (so far...), it definitely made a lasting impression.

Performance Specifications

(Specs sourced from Harley-Davidson and Auto Evolution)

Model Highlights

• Only CVO Fat Boy
• Three two-tone color schemes: Nebula Yellow Pearl/Cobalt Blue, Autumn Haze/Abyss Blue, and Canyon Chopper/Concord Purple
• Screamin' Eagle performance parts
• Twin Cam 103B engine

7 2017 CVO Pro Street Breakout

Horsepower: 92 HP

Generally, most CVOs consist of Touring bikes. However, one model that stands out from the pack is the rare 2017 CVO Pro Street Breakout. With its low-profile build, blacked-out interior, and drag-racing attitude, this limited-edition factory chopper ranks high as one of the most powerful Softail models of its time. Powered by a Screamin' Eagle Twin Cam 110B engine, this CVO Breakout brings an extra dose of speed that many high-performance cruiser fans adore. Not to mention that its muscular build and dark and sinister vibe only enhance the overall appeal of this bike. Whether its on the drag strip or the highway, this Breakout isn't shy about breaking out from the pack.

Performance Specifications

(Specs sourced from Harley-Davidson and Motorcycle Specs)

Model Highlights

• Custom paint scheme with hand-applied graphics (Starfire Black/Starfire Black, White Gold Pearl/Starfire Black, Scorched Apple/Starfire Black)
• Race-inspired bucket seat with bolstered pillion
• Race-inspired, color-matched speed screen fairing and chin spoiler
• Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) with heated O2 sensors
• Rider-initiated Engine Idle Temperature Management Strategy (EITMS)

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6 2015 CVO Limited

Horsepower: 96.6 HP

Popular touring models such as the Ultra Limited are prime candidates for the CVO treatment, and one particular version that stands out is the 2015 CVO Limited. Enhanced by Project RUSHMORE, this CVO was a magnet for the high-end touring package that provided top-tier features in comfort, convenience, style, and power for the rider who wants the best of everything on their bike. That included a Twin-Cooled Twin Cam 110 engine with Automatic Compression Release, which would come in handy during those long-haul days that involved hours of non-stop riding. Along with three exclusive paint schemes, very comfortable rider and passenger seating, four speakers, extra storage, Daymaker LED headlights, and Reflex-linked ABS, there isn't a lot to say "no" to about this bike.

Performance Specifications

(Specs sourced from Harley-Davidson and Bikez)

Model Highlights

• Twin-cooled Twin Cam 110™ engine with Automatic Compression Release
• Electronic Cruise Control
• Boom! Box 6.5 GT audio system with GPS and touchscreen
• Wind-tunnel tested Batwing fairing with splitstream vent and short windshield for reduced head buffeting

5 2018 CVO Road Glide Limited

Horsepower: 105 HP

By 2018, Harley-Davidson had truly embraced the digital revolution like many other major vehicle manufacturers. With more tech features and high-end luxury for long-haul comfort, the 2018 CVO Road Glide had all the style and performance needed to make any cross-country road trip a memorable experience. Much like 2017, 2018 was also a special year as it marked the debut of the mighty Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine that was exclusive only to the CVO line for the next few years.

With this new standard of performance baggers, many experienced riders saw this as an opportunity to break out the checkbook for the high-end Harley-Davidson that they had been dreaming of for a long time. It came with a few modern-day tech features like premium BOOM! Box 6.5GT Infotainment System, stage II speakers, and a wireless headset as standard from the factory. Plus, that kickass red-black livery made matters even sweeter.

Performance Specifications

(Specs sourced from Harley-Davidson)

Model Highlights

• Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine
• Unique front fender
• Suspension tuning to match 21-inch wheel handling dynamics
• Unique exhaust finish that completes the factory custom styling

4 2022 CVO Road Glide/Street Glide

Horsepower: 106 HP

As the powertrains inside CVOs became more and more bolder over the years, as did the CVOs themselves. The 2022 CVO Road Glide and CVO Street Glide were two perfect examples of high-end baggers not afraid to attract attention to themselves via their unique paint jobs or their on-road performance. For riders seeking to go the extra mile in expressing their individuality (and having the bank account to do it), the 2022 CVOs were the bikes for them. Both were powered by the then-flagship Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine. By this point in the CVO lifetime, these motorcycles had built a reputation for rolling loud and proud wherever they went.

Performance Specifications

(Specs sourced from Harley-Davidson)

Model Highlights

• Rockford Fosgate audio system
• Corning Rider Safety Enhancements (CRSE)
• Daymaker LED Headlamp
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

3 2023 CVO Road Glide/Street Glide

Horsepower: 115 HP

It wasn't until a year ago that Harley-Davidson opened a new chapter for its CVO line. Not just in terms of power, performance, and style, but overall. Both the CVO Road Glide and CVO Street Glide saw a full makeover from front to back last year. Their fairings were remodeled. The headlights were completely LED. They were more aerodynamic and flowing with CFD bodywork. And lastly, their engines received an impressive upgrade to house the massive Milwaukee-Eight VVT 121. VVT, which stands for Variable Valve Timing, ensured the overall powerband was wide, improving upon its torque management and fuel economy. Redesigned liquid-cooled cylinder heads that are more efficient in regulating the engine's temperature were also introduced.

Performance Specifications

(Specs sourced from Harley-Davidson)

Model Highlights

• Complete overhaul in their design
• Milwaukee-Eight VVT 121 engine
• Improved cooling system
• High-performance camshaft
• Lighter overall weight

2 2024 CVO Road Glide ST

Horsepower: 127 HP

If we are going to talk about the most powerful CVOs, the CVO Road Glide ST has to come up. Inspired by the Road Glides used in the prestigious King of the Baggers races, the ST represents the pinnacle of performance baggers produced by Harley-Davidson. This 800-pound touring bike is ideally suited for riders with racing experience, featuring a long list of performance upgrades to maximize its on-road capabilities. These enhancements include lightweight titanium shells, forged carbon fiber components (such as the front fender, seat cowl, and tank console), wave-style front brake rotors, and a High Output version of its tuned-up Milwaukee-Eight 121 engine. The latter is the centerpiece, thanks to nearly 130 ponies!

Performance Specifications

(Specs sourced from Harley-Davidson)

Model Highlights

• Milwaukee-Eight 121 High Output V-Twin engine exclusive only to the 2024 CVO Road Glide ST
• Carbon fiber materials
• Selectable ride modes (Road, Sport, Track, Track Plus, Rain, and Custom modes)
• Fully adjustable front and rear suspension
• Brembo brakes

1 2024 CVO Pan America

Horsepower: 150 HP

This may come as a shock to some, and no surprise to others, but the most powerful CVO ever produced by Harley-Davidson isn't a regular touring model. Generating a staggering 150 HP is the one-and-only CVO Pan America. Housing the liquid-cooled Revolution Max 1250 engine, this motorcycle allows riders to ride through challenging terrains such as dirt, mud, and sand with little to no effort. If that wasn't impressive enough, this bike packs enough muscle to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in as little as 3.4 seconds. While most CVOs are ridden with the greatest of care and caution, this first-ever CVO Adventure bike isn't afraid to get down and dirty on the trails.

Performance Specifications

(Specs sourced from Harley-Davidson)

Model Highlights

• Revolution Max 1250 Engine
• Harley-Davidson's first CVO Adventure bike
• Optimal performance for on-road and off-road riding
• Automatic Adaptive Ride Height