2018–2022 Harley-Davidson CVO Milwaukee-Eight 117 (FLTRXSE Road Glide)

The 2018–2022 Harley-Davidson CVO Milwaukee-Eight 117 (FLTRXSE Road Glide) represents the pinnacle of factory-custom touring motorcycles from the iconic American manufacturer during its production run. As a key model in Harley-Davidson’s prestigious Custom Vehicle Operations (CVO) program, the FLTRXSE Road Glide combines a commanding presence with exclusive features, high-performance components, and intricate, hand-applied paint finishes. At its heart is the massive Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine, which, at the time of its introduction, was the largest and most powerful stock engine ever offered by the company, reserved exclusively for the CVO line.

The CVO Road Glide built upon the foundation of the standard model but elevated every aspect. It was designed for the discerning rider seeking a turn-key custom bagger with unparalleled power, style, and long-haul comfort. Each year, the CVO models were produced in limited numbers, featuring unique paint schemes and accessory collections that distinguished them from their predecessors and the main production lineup.

Evolution from the Twin Cam Era

The introduction of the 2018 CVO Road Glide marked a significant shift from its direct predecessor, which was powered by the Twin Cam 110 engine. The primary difference was the move to the then-new Milwaukee-Eight engine platform. Unlike the Twin Cam, the Milwaukee-Eight featured four valves per cylinder, a single internal counter-balancer to reduce vibration, and enhanced cooling through precision oil or twin-cooling strategies. This resulted in a smoother, more refined riding experience with increased power and torque, better heat management, and improved fuel efficiency. The updated chassis, a product of Harley’s “Project Rushmore” initiative, also provided superior handling and ride comfort compared to the earlier frame.

The CVO Milwaukee-Eight 117 Engine

The defining feature of the 2018–2022 CVO Road Glide is its powertrain. The Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine, with a displacement of 117 cubic inches (1923cc), was the crown jewel of Harley-Davidson’s engine lineup. This 45-degree V-Twin was engineered to deliver massive torque right from idle, providing immediate and authoritative acceleration.

Key characteristics of the 117 engine include a high-performance camshaft, a high-flow air intake, and a full custom exhaust system designed to maximize output while delivering the deep, resonant sound expected from a Harley-Davidson. The result was a power plant that produced approximately 126 ft-lb of torque, making it exceptionally capable for highway passing, two-up touring, and effortless cruising.

Design, Technology, and Features

Visually, the CVO Road Glide is distinguished by its aggressive, frame-mounted “shark-nose” fairing. This design is not only iconic but also functional, as mounting the fairing to the frame rather than the handlebars reduces the effect of wind buffeting on steering, contributing to greater stability at high speeds. The fairing houses dual Daymaker LED headlamps, providing exceptional visibility.

Each model year was defined by its exclusive and often multi-layered paint schemes, which were applied by hand and unavailable on any other model. Complementing the paint were premium finishes on the engine and chassis components, along with model-specific custom wheels.

Standard features on the CVO Road Glide included:
Premium Infotainment: The Boom! Box GTS infotainment system with a full-color touchscreen, GPS navigation, and smartphone connectivity via Apple CarPlay.
High-Fidelity Audio: A powerful Boom! Audio Stage II sound system, featuring speakers in the fairing and saddlebag lids, powered by multiple amplifiers for clear, loud sound at any speed.
Reflex Defensive Rider Systems (RDRS): Introduced as standard in 2020, this suite of electronic rider aids uses advanced chassis control and an inertial measurement unit (IMU) to enhance rider control. It includes Cornering Enhanced ABS, Cornering Enhanced Traction Control, and Drag-Torque Slip Control.
Custom Components: The CVO models came fully equipped with premium accessories from collections like Kahuna or Fugitive, including custom grips, floorboards, pegs, and engine covers.

Specifications: 2022 Harley-Davidson CVO Road Glide (FLTRXSE)