The 2017–2022 Harley-Davidson CVO Milwaukee-Eight 117 (FLHXSE Street Glide) represents a series of limited-edition, factory-custom bagger motorcycles produced by Harley-Davidson. As part of the Custom Vehicle Operations (CVO) program, these models served as the pinnacle of the brand’s touring lineup, showcasing exclusive paint schemes, premium components, and the most powerful V-Twin engines available from the factory during their production run. The FLHXSE Street Glide blended the iconic “batwing” fairing design with top-tier performance and technology, setting a benchmark for the premium American motorcycle category. This generation is particularly notable for introducing and standardizing the Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine, the largest displacement motor offered by Harley-Davidson at the time.
Development and Engine Evolution
The CVO Street Glide of this era was built upon the significant platform update that introduced the Milwaukee-Eight engine for the 2017 model year. Initially, the 2017 CVO models were equipped with the Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine, a substantial upgrade over the previous Twin Cam engine. However, the definitive engine for this generation, the Milwaukee-Eight 117, was introduced as the standard CVO powerplant beginning with the 2018 model year. This 117 cubic inch (1,923 cc) V-Twin was exclusive to CVO models, providing a major performance incentive over the standard Street Glide, which came with the Milwaukee-Eight 107 or 114 engines. The CVO program used the FLHXSE as a canvas to combine this exclusive power with the latest technology and custom-inspired styling straight from the factory.
Differences from Previous and Standard Models
Compared to the standard Street Glide, the CVO version offered a comprehensive suite of upgrades. The most significant was the larger-displacement engine, which delivered a noticeable increase in torque and horsepower. Aesthetically, CVO models were distinguished by their intricate, multi-layered paint schemes with hand-applied graphics, which were unavailable on any other model. They also featured model-specific custom wheels, seats, and controls, along with premium audio systems that were far more powerful than the standard offerings.
The primary difference from the preceding CVO generation (pre-2017) was the transition from the Twin Cam 110 engine to the Milwaukee-Eight platform. The Milwaukee-Eight engine featured a four-valve-per-cylinder head design, a single chain-driven camshaft, and dual spark plugs, which resulted in improved power, greater fuel efficiency, and better heat management. A key engineering enhancement was the inclusion of an internal counter-balancer, which drastically reduced idle vibration by 75%, leading to a smoother and more comfortable ride without losing the characteristic Harley-Davidson feel.
Key Features of the Harley-Davidson CVO Milwaukee-Eight 117
This generation of the CVO Street Glide was defined by a combination of high-performance engineering, advanced technology, and meticulous custom styling.
Engine and Performance
The heart of the motorcycle is the Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine. This air- and oil-cooled V-Twin was engineered for massive low-end torque, providing strong acceleration from a standstill and for highway passing maneuvers. It was paired with a high-performance Ventilator air intake and a premium exhaust system to maximize airflow and performance. Power was delivered to the rear wheel through a 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission.
Technology and Rider Aids
Throughout its production run, the FLHXSE saw significant technological advancements. Early models featured the Boom! Box 6.5GT infotainment system, while models from 2019 onward received the faster and more user-friendly Boom! Box GTS system. This included a full-color touchscreen, navigation, and Bluetooth connectivity for mobile devices and wireless headsets. The audio system was a major focus, often featuring Boom! Audio Stage II or Rockford Fosgate components with multiple amplifiers and speakers integrated into the fairing and saddlebags. Starting in 2020, the Reflex Defensive Rider Systems (RDRS) became standard. This suite of electronic aids included Cornering Enhanced Anti-Lock Braking System (C-ABS), Cornering Enhanced Traction Control System (C-TCS), and Drag-Torque Slip Control System (DSCS), using an inertial measurement unit (IMU) to provide advanced safety and control.
Chassis and Styling
The CVO Street Glide utilized Harley-Davidson’s robust touring frame, designed for stability and responsive handling. The suspension featured premium components, with dual bending valve front forks and emulsion rear shocks that included a remote, hand-adjustable preload knob, allowing riders to easily tune the suspension for passenger and luggage weight. The motorcycle’s visual identity was dominated by its fork-mounted “batwing” fairing, stretched saddlebags, and exclusive finishes. Every detail, from the Talon or Fugitive custom wheels to the custom-stitched seat and high-end Kahuna or Fugitive collection controls, was designed to create a cohesive, factory-custom look.
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Specifications: 2022 Harley-Davidson CVO Street Glide (FLHXSE)**
| General | |
| Brand | Harley-Davidson |
| Model | CVO Street Glide |
| Model Class | FLHXSE |
| Model Year | 2022 |
| Type | Bagger / Touring |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 1,360 lb. (617 kg) |
| Maximum passengers | 2 |
| Performance | |
| Max. power | 105 Hp (78 kW) / 5450 RPM |
| Max. torque | 126 ft-lb (171 N·m) / 3750 RPM |
| Lean Angle, Right | 32° |
| Lean Angle, Left | 31° |
| Size | |
| Length | 94.5 in. (2400 mm) |
| Width | 37.8 in. (960 mm) |
| Height | 52.4 in. (1330 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 64 in. (1625 mm) |
| Seat height, Laden | 26.1 in. (663 mm) |
| Ground clearance | 4.9 in. (125 mm) |
| Weight, As Shipped | 827 lb. (375 kg) |
| Weight, In Running Order | 866 lb. (393 kg) |
| Engine | |
| Type | Milwaukee-Eight® 117 V-Twin, 45° |
| Displacement | 117 cu in (1,923 cc) |
| Bore × Stroke | 4.075 in. × 4.5 in. (103.5 mm × 114.3 mm) |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Starting system | Electric starter |
| Fuel supplying system | Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) |
| Lubricating system | Dry Sump |
| Oil capacity (w/filter) | 5.2 qt. (4.9 L) |
| Engine oil type | SAE 20W-50 Harley-Davidson HD 360 Motorcycle Oil |
| Cooling system | Air and Oil cooled |
| Transmission | |
| Transmission type | 6-speed Cruise Drive® |
| Clutch type | Wet, multi-disc, slipper/assist |
| Driving system | Belt Drive |
| Primary reduction ratio | 1.353 |
| Final reduction ratio | 2.125 |
| Gear ratio | 1st: 9.593; 2nd: 6.65; 3rd: 4.938; 4th: 4.0; 5th: 3.407; 6th: 2.875 |
| Chassis | |
| Tire size | Front: 130/60B19 61H; Rear: 180/55B18 80H |
| Wheel type | Gloss Black and Contrast Smoked Satin Fugitive |
| Capacity of fuel tank | 6 gal (22.7 L) |
| Fuel consumption | 41 mpg (5.7 L / 100 km) |
| Electric | |
| Battery | Sealed, maintenance-free, 12V |
| Headlight | LED Daymaker® |
| Tail/Brake Light | LED |
