2023–2024 Harley-Davidson CVO Milwaukee-Eight VVT 121 (FLHXSE Street Glide)

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The 2023–2024 Harley-Davidson CVO Milwaukee-Eight VVT 121 (FLHXSE Street Glide)** represents one of the most significant advancements in the history of Harley-Davidson’s Grand American Touring line. Unveiled as a top-tier model from the company’s Custom Vehicle Operations (CVO) division, this motorcycle introduces a completely redesigned platform featuring a new powertrain, updated chassis, advanced electronics, and a modern aesthetic that reinterprets the iconic batwing fairing. It serves as a showcase for the brand’s latest technology and a clear indicator of its future design direction.

This new generation of the CVO Street Glide marks a dramatic departure from its predecessor. While the previous model was a highly-appointed version of the standard Street Glide, it was fundamentally based on a design that had seen only incremental changes for years. The 2023–2024 version is a ground-up redesign. Visually, the most striking change is the fairing, which is now more sculpted and aerodynamic, with fully integrated LED signature lighting and integrated turn signals. The fuel tank has been reshaped with distinct side scallops, and the saddlebags have a sleeker, more three-dimensional profile. The entire motorcycle presents a more cohesive and contemporary silhouette compared to the more traditional lines of the previous generation.

The Milwaukee-Eight VVT 121 Engine

At the core of this new model is the Milwaukee-Eight VVT 121 engine. This 121-cubic-inch (1,977 cc) V-Twin is the largest displacement engine ever factory-installed in a Harley-Davidson touring motorcycle. Its most notable feature is the introduction of Variable Valve Timing (VVT). This technology advances or retards camshaft timing through a potential range of 40 degrees of crankshaft rotation, which significantly broadens the overall powerband. The result is an increase in both low-end torque for acceleration and high-end horsepower for passing power, while also improving fuel economy and reducing emissions.

Another key innovation is a new liquid-cooling system. Unlike previous “Twin-Cooled” systems that circulated coolant around the exhaust ports of both heads, this new design focuses cooling efforts primarily on the rear cylinder head, which is more susceptible to heat buildup due to reduced airflow. This targeted approach maintains the classic air-cooled look of the engine’s fins while providing more effective thermal management, enhancing rider comfort and ensuring consistent performance. The engine produces a claimed 115 horsepower and 139 ft-lb of torque, a substantial increase over the previous Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine.

Chassis, Suspension, and Brakes

To complement the more powerful engine, the chassis and suspension components were thoroughly upgraded. The frame retains its classic steel backbone design but has been optimized for the new package. The most significant handling improvement comes from the front suspension, which now features a 47mm inverted SHOWA fork, replacing the conventional telescopic forks of the past. This change provides increased stiffness for more precise steering and better feedback.

The rear suspension has also been improved, with new dual outboard emulsion shock absorbers that offer a 50% increase in travel to 3.0 inches (76 mm). This additional travel significantly enhances ride comfort and bump absorption. A new remote preload adjustment knob allows for easy tuning without the need for tools. The braking system is sourced from Brembo, featuring dual 320mm front rotors with radially mounted four-piston calipers, providing formidable stopping power managed by an advanced cornering ABS system.

Technology and Infotainment

The 2023–2024 CVO Street Glide takes a major leap forward in rider technology. The traditional analog gauges and smaller infotainment screen have been replaced by a state-of-the-art 12.3-inch TFT color touch-screen display. This expansive, anti-glare screen is powered by the new Skyline™ OS, which provides a customizable in-dash experience with navigation, music, and vehicle information. The system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and features Bluetooth connectivity for headsets and mobile devices.

The motorcycle is equipped with a comprehensive suite of rider safety enhancements, including selectable Ride Modes (Sport, Road, Rain, and Custom) that electronically adjust power delivery, throttle response, traction control, and ABS settings. The cornering-enhanced systems use an inertial measurement unit (IMU) to modulate intervention based on lean angle, further increasing rider confidence in various conditions.

2023-2024 Harley-Davidson CVO Street Glide (FLHXSE) Specifications