For 2011 Harley-Davidson's "Alpha" customers will once again have four limited-edition bikes to drool over from its factory Custom Vehicle Operations division, each powered by the Screamin' Eagle Twin Cam 110 V-twin. This engine is good for up to 115 lb-ft of torque and is only available from the factory in CVO models. If you're looking for exclusivity (with a price tag to match), the CVOs offer special paint, accessories and a high-performance powertrain not available on their standard production counterparts. We recently sampled all four at their introduction in the Reno/Tahoe area of Nevada and California, swooping alongside blue Lake Tahoe and over Donner Pass on a day ride.
Rider Report
2011 FLTRUSE Road Glide Ultra
FLTRUSE Road Glide Ultra
All-new for 2011, the Road Glide Ultra CVO enhances the "basic" FLTRU we tested in the September 2010 issue with a Road Tech zumo 660 GPS navigation system, upgraded Harman/Kardon Advanced Audio system and an 8GB iPod nano and dock. The two-up suspended touring seat with dual heat controls and adjustable backrests make sure you're cozy while enjoying the tunes. There's also a remote-control key fob that activates power locks on the Tour-Pak luggage carrier, saddlebags and ignition.
Road Glide fans will note that the Ultra CVO gets a more aerodynamic windscreen and fairing deflectors from the factory, pieces I would like to see standard on both Road Glides, as they reduce buffeting in the cockpit area. The CVO's special handlebar bend is more comfortable; mirrors are more effective and the narrower air cleaner leaves more room for your right leg than on the standard RG Ultra, too. One of three gorgeous color schemes runs $35,999.
Rider Report
2011 FLHXSE2 Street Glide
FLHXSE2 Street Glide
The Street Glide on which this CVO is based is also Harley's #1 best seller. The FLHXSE2 starts with a new 19-inch Agitator front wheel, the largest-diameter wheel ever offered on a Harley-Davidson Touring model. The six-speaker audio system is boosted by a new high-efficiency, 100-watt-per-channel amplifier and incorporates an 8GB iPod nano with dock and holder in the right saddlebag. The Street Glide's side-fill fuel tank is topped with a flush-mount cap and LED gauge, and a new low-profile console. Four different color combinations are complemented by a specific engine color and finish, wheel finish, tank console finish, muffler end-cap style and inner fairing color. To my mind this is the best combo with the classic "batwing" fairing, with easy handling and loads of comfort. $32,499.
Rider Report
2011 FLSTSE2 Softail Convertible
FLSTSE2 Softail Convertible
This two-in-one model transforms from custom touring to custom cruising by removing the detachable fairing/windscreen, leather saddlebags, passenger pillion and backrest upright. The 2011 CVO Softail Convertible is also equipped with a new audio system that integrates speakers and a 20-watt-per-channel amplifier into a redesigned inner fairing. Music is delivered by an 8GB iPod nano stored in a protective pouch. A new 1.25-inch welded mini-ape handlebar is good for the chimpanzee in all of us, and standard Electronic Throttle Control (throttle-by-wire), cruise control, keyless ignition and ABS give the CVO Softail Convertible more touring capability. One of its four colors is $29,599.
I found the Convertible comfortable and effortless to ride, and it's new handlebar surprisingly functional, but that it lacked cornering clearance for anything above a sedate pace on Tahoe's winding foothill roads.
Rider Report
2011 FLHTCUSE6 Electra Glide Ultra Classic
FLHTCUSE6 Electra Glide Ultra Classic
Harley-Davidson's top-line traditional CVO tourer has a new suspended, heated, two-up seat with leather inserts, and matching adjustable backrests for rider and passenger. Dual mufflers feature new chrome billet end caps with black spears, and new mirrors are finished in mirror chrome. The Road Tech zumo 660 GPS navigation system and remote-control power locks on the Tour-Pak, saddlebags and ignition are also standard equipment. Now that the Road Glide comes in Ultra and Ultra CVO versions with a TourPak trunk, lowers, etc., choosing between it and the Electra Glide Ultra Classic/CVO is the kind of dilemma you gotta love. In Black Ember and Rio Red with flames the Electra CVO is $36,499.
For information and pricing on Harley-Davidson's entire 2011 lineup, visit www.harley-davidson.com.
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