2016–2017 Harley-Davidson Softail CVO Twin Cam 110 (FXSE CVO Pro Street Breakout)

The 2016–2017 Harley-Davidson Softail CVO Twin Cam 110 (FXSE CVO Pro Street Breakout) is a factory-custom, limited-production motorcycle produced by Harley-Davidson. As part of the company’s Custom Vehicle Operations (CVO) program, the Pro Street Breakout was developed to be a premium, high-performance cruiser that blended drag-racing aesthetics with a dark, urban style. It represented the pinnacle of the Softail lineup during its production run, featuring exclusive components, unique finishes, and the most powerful engine available in a production Harley-Davidson at the time.

The model was built on the existing Harley-Davidson Breakout platform but was substantially upgraded in every category. It was designed to appeal to riders seeking a more aggressive, performance-oriented cruiser that stood out from the traditional chrome-heavy styling often associated with the brand. The Pro Street Breakout was distinguished by its dark finishes, minimalist bodywork, and a powerful stance defined by its massive rear tire and drag-style handlebar.

Development and Styling

The styling of the FXSE CVO Pro Street Breakout is heavily influenced by American drag racing culture. The design team, led by Harley-Davidson stylist Dais Nagao, focused on creating a motorcycle that looked fast even when standing still. Key design elements include a low-profile fuel tank, a forward-facing heavy breather air intake, forward-mounted foot controls, and a flat, 1.25-inch drag-style handlebar. These features combine to create an aggressive, stretched-out riding position.

As a CVO model, the Pro Street Breakout featured premium and exclusive finishes. Unlike many previous CVOs that relied on bright chrome and elaborate graphics, the FXSE utilized a more subdued and modern palette. It was offered in two main color schemes: Starfire Black/Starfire Black and White Gold Pearl/Starfire Black. A key visual element was the introduction of a new finish called “Smoke Satin Chrome,” which was applied to components like the oil lines, timer cover, and exhaust pipes, providing a unique alternative to traditional chrome or blacked-out parts.

Further custom details include the Aggressor custom wheels with a gloss black finish, a deeply sculpted bucket seat designed to hold the rider in place during hard acceleration, and a color-matched chin spoiler. The lighting is all LED, including the Daymaker Projector headlamp, which contributes to the motorcycle’s modern and clean aesthetic.

Powertrain: The CVO Twin Cam 110 Engine

At the heart of the CVO Pro Street Breakout is the Screamin’ Eagle Twin Cam 110B engine. This air-cooled, 110-cubic-inch (1801cc) V-twin was the largest displacement engine offered by Harley-Davidson for its production models at the time. The “B” in the engine’s designation indicates that it is counter-balanced, which reduces engine vibration and allows it to be rigidly mounted in the Softail frame, enhancing the connection between the rider and the machine.

To maximize performance, the engine is equipped with Screamin’ Eagle components, including the Heavy Breather Elite air intake and black blunt-cut mufflers. This combination provides increased airflow and a distinctive exhaust note. The powertrain is completed by a high-performance hydraulic slip-and-assist clutch, which provides a lighter lever pull and better control during aggressive downshifts. The engine is mated to a 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission, delivering power to the massive 240mm rear tire via a belt drive.

Chassis and Handling

The FXSE CVO Pro Street Breakout is built on Harley-Davidson’s Softail chassis, which is designed to mimic the clean lines of a vintage “hardtail” frame while concealing modern rear shock absorbers for improved ride quality.

A significant upgrade for this model was its front suspension. The Pro Street Breakout was the first CVO Softail to feature 43mm inverted front forks. This design, more common on performance and racing motorcycles, offers increased rigidity and improved damping control compared to the conventional forks found on the standard Breakout. Braking performance was also enhanced with dual 300mm floating disc brakes on the front wheel, paired with a 4-piston fixed caliper. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was included as standard equipment.

Differences from the Standard Breakout

While sharing the same basic silhouette, the CVO Pro Street Breakout was a significant step up from the standard Harley-Davidson Breakout (FXSB) model of the same era. The key differences include:

Engine: The CVO model featured the Screamin’ Eagle Twin Cam 110B (1801cc) engine, whereas the standard Breakout was equipped with the High Output Twin Cam 103B (1690cc) engine.
Suspension and Brakes: The CVO Pro Street Breakout received high-performance inverted front forks and dual front disc brakes, offering superior handling and stopping power compared to the standard model’s conventional forks and single front disc.
Styling and Finishes: The CVO model boasted exclusive paint schemes, the unique Smoke Satin Chrome finish, Aggressor wheels, and premium CVO badging. The standard model had more traditional chrome and paint options.
Components: Nearly every component on the CVO was upgraded, including the seat, handlebar, controls, air intake, and exhaust system, all of which were factory-installed Screamin’ Eagle or premium Harley-Davidson parts.

Specifications