The Harley-Davidson® CVO™ Road Glide® ST is a factory-developed performance touring motorcycle engineered to integrate high-output power, weight reduction strategies, and advanced electronic control systems within the Road Glide® platform. The CVO™ Road Glide® ST first entered production in the 2024 model year as a limited-production variant positioned above traditional touring configurations. Its development drew measurable influence from competitive bagger racing, resulting in a motorcycle defined by mechanical performance, chassis refinement, and rider-focused control systems.
Using the 2025 Harley-Davidson® CVO™ Road Glide® ST as the technical reference point, it demonstrates how Harley-Davidson® adapted race-derived concepts into a production touring motorcycle without altering its fundamental touring architecture. The model’s design and specifications establish a foundation that directly informs expectations for the upcoming 2026 Harley-Davidson® CVO™ Road Glide® ST iteration, particularly in terms of engine output, electronic integration, and chassis response.
Milwaukee-Eight® 121 High Output Engine Architecture
The 2025 Harley-Davidson® CVO™ Road Glide® ST is powered by the Milwaukee-Eight® 121 High Output V-twin engine. This powerplant is the most powerful engine installed in a Harley-Davidson® production motorcycle to date. The engine produces 127 horsepower and 145 ft-lb of torque, figures achieved through a combination of mechanical and airflow-focused enhancements.
A high-performance camshaft profile increases valve lift and duration, improving volumetric efficiency across the upper portion of the rev range. The Screamin’ Eagle® Heavy Breather intake assembly supports increased airflow while maintaining filtration efficiency. Internal calibration changes raise the engine’s rev limit to 5,900 rpm, allowing the power curve to extend further without sacrificing durability or throttle control.
Engine cooling and lubrication systems are configured to maintain stability under sustained high-load operation. The engine’s mounting within the touring frame preserves structural rigidity while minimizing unwanted vibration.
Exhaust System Design and Performance Contribution
The exhaust system on the 2025 Harley-Davidson® CVO™ Road Glide® ST uses lightweight titanium mufflers designed to increase exhaust flow efficiency while reducing overall mass. Titanium construction provides high heat resistance and structural durability under repeated thermal cycling. The reduced weight contributes to improved mass centralization and responsiveness during directional changes.
Exhaust routing and internal baffle design are tuned to support the Milwaukee-Eight® 121 High Output engine’s airflow requirements. This configuration enhances throttle response and supports the engine’s extended operating range. The exhaust system is integrated with the engine management system to ensure consistent fueling and ignition timing across all ride modes.
Suspension Configuration and Chassis Control
Suspension performance is a defining technical characteristic of the 2025 Harley-Davidson® CVO™ Road Glide® ST. The front suspension uses SHOWA® 47 mm inverted forks with 4.6 inches of travel. These forks are fully adjustable for preload, compression damping, and rebound damping. This adjustability allows precise tuning based on rider weight, riding style, and load conditions.
The rear suspension consists of dual SHOWA® Remote Reservoir shocks providing three inches of travel. The remote reservoir design separates oil and gas to reduce damping fade during sustained operation. Shock placement between the saddlebags and rear fender improves thermal management while maintaining consistent damping characteristics during aggressive riding.
Combined with the touring frame geometry, the suspension system supports increased cornering clearance, improved stability under braking, and controlled chassis movement during acceleration. The result is predictable handling behavior that remains consistent across varying road surfaces.
Lightweight Materials and Structural Efficiency
Weight reduction plays a measurable role in the 2025 Harley-Davidson® CVO™ Road Glide® ST’s handling characteristics. Forged carbon fiber is used for the front fender, replacing traditional steel components. This change reduces unsprung weight and improves steering response while maintaining structural integrity.
Cast aluminum wheels further reduce unsprung mass compared to heavier alternatives. Reduced rotational inertia improves acceleration response and braking efficiency. The wheels are paired with dual floating brake rotors designed to dissipate heat more effectively during repeated braking cycles.
The solo seat contributes additional weight savings while providing functional rider support. Its contoured shape includes a raised rear section that supports the lower back during acceleration and stabilizes the rider during cornering transitions. Seat materials are selected to balance durability and reduced mass.
Brake System Engineering and Electronic Integration
Braking performance on the 2025 Harley-Davidson® CVO™ Road Glide® ST is supported by Brembo® braking components and advanced electronic control systems. Dual floating front brake rotors improve thermal stability and reduce brake fade during sustained braking. Caliper design and pad selection provide consistent modulation and braking force across a wide range of speeds.
Electronic Linked Braking electronically distributes braking force between the front and rear wheels based on rider input. This system enhances overall braking efficiency while maintaining rider control. Linking intensity varies depending on speed and braking force applied.
Cornering-enhanced braking systems adjust brake pressure based on lean angle. These systems help maintain the motorcycle’s intended line during deceleration while cornering by reducing the likelihood of wheel slip under lateral load.
Ride Modes and Performance Electronics
The 2025 Harley-Davidson® CVO™ Road Glide® ST includes eight selectable ride modes that modify throttle response, engine braking, traction control sensitivity, and braking behavior. These modes allow riders to adapt the motorcycle’s performance characteristics to different riding environments and skill levels.
Track and Track+ modes provide reduced electronic intervention intended for closed-course use. These modes allow increased rear wheel slip and more direct throttle response while maintaining baseline safety system functionality. Activation is controlled through the main display interface.
The 12.3-inch TFT display powered by Skyline™ OS functions as the primary control interface for all ride modes and vehicle systems. The display presents gauges, navigation data, ride mode selection, and system status information with high resolution and brightness suitable for varied lighting conditions. Touchscreen functionality allows system adjustments without physical switches.
Rider Safety Enhancement Systems
The 2025 Harley-Davidson® CVO™ Road Glide® ST incorporates a comprehensive suite of Rider Safety Enhancements designed to support traction, braking stability, and rider confidence. Standard systems include Anti-lock Braking System, Traction Control System, Drag-Torque Slip Control System, and Vehicle Hold Control.
Cornering-enhanced variants of ABS, Electronic Linked Braking, Traction Control, and Drag-Torque Slip Control adjust system behavior based on lean angle and lateral acceleration. These systems help manage wheel slip and braking force during cornering scenarios.
Vehicle Hold Control maintains brake pressure during hill starts, preventing rollback until throttle input is applied. Tire Pressure Monitoring System provides alerts for low or high tire pressure through the main display, supporting consistent handling and tire longevity.
Ergonomics, Controls, and Rider Interface
Rider ergonomics on the 2025 Harley-Davidson® CVO™ Road Glide® ST are tuned for aggressive touring. Tall risers and moto-style handlebars position the rider in a forward-leaning stance that improves control input without excessive strain. Mini floorboards provide adequate foot support while preserving lean angle clearance.
Control placement prioritizes accessibility and minimal hand movement. Switchgear integrates with the TFT display to allow quick adjustments to ride modes and system settings. The seating position and handlebar geometry support extended riding durations without compromising responsiveness.
Touring Capability and Functional Range
Despite its performance focus, the 2025 Harley-Davidson® CVO™ Road Glide® ST retains full touring functionality. The frame-mounted fairing provides aerodynamic stability at highway speeds and reduces steering input effects from wind. The laden seat height of 26.7 inches supports accessibility across a broad range of rider statures.
Fuel efficiency is rated at 44 miles per gallon, balancing engine output with touring range. Saddlebags remain integrated into the chassis design, maintaining storage capacity while preserving weight distribution and handling balance.
Direction Toward the 2026 Harley-Davidson® CVO™ Road Glide® ST
The technical configuration of the 2025 model establishes a clear trajectory for the upcoming 2026 Harley-Davidson® CVO™ Road Glide® ST. Engine output, suspension capability, electronic integration, and material selection define a performance-oriented touring platform that continues to evolve. The ST designation reflects a sustained focus on mechanical refinement rather than cosmetic variation.
Visit Harley-Davidson® of Wesley Chapel close to Lutz, FL
Riders interested in evaluating the technical capabilities of the 2026 Harley-Davidson® CVO™ Road Glide® ST can gain direct insight through a scheduled test ride. Experiencing the Milwaukee-Eight® 121 High Output engine, adjustable suspension, and integrated safety systems provides a clearer understanding of the motorcycle’s performance balance. The interaction between chassis, electronics, and power delivery becomes evident during controlled riding conditions. A test ride allows detailed assessment of ergonomics, braking response, and ride mode functionality. Scheduling can be arranged through Harley-Davidson® of Wesley Chapel close to Lutz, FL, offering an opportunity to experience the platform that shapes expectations for the next generation.
