Harley-Davidson CVO Electra Glide Ultra Classic (1965 – 2022): A Timeless American Touring Icon

Introduction

The Harley-Davidson CVO Electra Glide Ultra Classic isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a rolling monument to American touring luxury. As the crown jewel of Harley’s Custom Vehicle Operations (CVO) lineup, this machine represents the pinnacle of factory customization, blending brute-force V-Twin power with opulent comfort and head-turning aesthetics. Whether you’re slicing through mountain passes or dominating interstate highways, the CVO Electra Glide Ultra Classic has spent decades refining its recipe for grand-scale adventure. Let’s dive into what makes this two-wheeled leviathan a legend.

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Design: Where Heritage Meets Extravagance

From its batwing fairing to its studded saddlebags, the CVO Electra Glide Ultra Classic wears its identity like a tailored leather jacket. The design language is unapologetically Harley: a low-slung silhouette, acres of chrome, and that iconic Tour-Pak® rear trunk that screams "cross-country capability." But as a CVO model, it dials everything to 11.

• Paint Schemes: CVO editions boast limited-run finishes like "Anniversary Vintage Bronze" or "Electric Orange/Black Diamond," layered with intricate graphics that shimmer in sunlight. These aren’t just colors—they’re statements.
• Custom Details: Chrome accents dominate, from the billet aluminum wheels to the dual exhausts with 4-inch mufflers. The split-stream air vent (color-matched to the body) isn’t just functional; it’s jewelry.
• Ergonomics: At 760 mm (29.9 in) seat height, it’s accessible for taller riders, though its 428 kg (944 lbs) wet weight demands respect when maneuvering at parking-lot speeds.

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Engine & Performance: The Heart of a Lion

The CVO Electra Glide’s engine evolution tells a story of relentless ambition. Early models packed a 1,688 cc (103 cu-in) Twin Cam, but later iterations roared to life with the Milwaukee-Eight 117—a 1,923 cc (117 cu-in) behemoth.

• Torque Monster: The 117 engine delivers 169 Nm (124.6 lb-ft) @ 3,500 RPM, a figure that translates to effortless highway overtakes. You’re not just riding; you’re piloting a freight train.
• Signature Sound: The crossover dual exhausts produce a bass-heavy growl that’s part thunder, part symphony—a CVO exclusive tune.
• Fuel Efficiency: At 5.74 L/100 km (40.98 mpg), it’s surprisingly frugal for its size, though you’ll be stopping more for admiration than gas.

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Comfort & Touring Features: A First-Class Ticket

This isn’t a motorcycle—it’s a mobile living room. Harley’s obsession with comfort shines in every detail:

• Heated Hammock Seats: Plush, adjustable, and heated, these seats cradle you like a La-Z-Boy. Your passenger gets a backrest with wraparound armrests.
• Wind Management: The batwing fairing and adjustable split-stream vent deflect wind without buffeting. Rain? The full-coverage bodywork laughs at weather.
• Storage: Saddlebags + Tour-Pak® = 136 liters of storage. Pack a week’s wardrobe, a picnic, and your vinyl collection.

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Technology: Rolling Concert Hall

The BOOM!™ Box 6.5 GT infotainment system is the centerpiece:
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Pair your phone, stream music, or follow GPS navigation via the 6.5-inch touchscreen.
- Wireless Headsets: Communicate with your passenger or fellow riders without tangled cords.
- Security: The hands-free fob locks/unlocks luggage and arms an anti-theft system as you walk away.

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Handling: Surprising Agility for a Titan

Don’t let the weight fool you—the CVO Electra Glide dances.

• Suspension: Showa® dual bending valve forks and emulsion rear shocks (hand-adjustable) soak up potholes while maintaining composure in corners.
• Brakes: Reflex™ Linked Brembo® brakes with ABS. Squeeze the lever, and the system balances front/rear braking force, even during panic stops.
• Lean Angles: 33.4° left / 34.3° right—enough to scrape floorboards if you’re feeling spicy.

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Competition: How Does It Stack Up?

The CVO Electra Glide Ultra Classic dominates a niche, but here’s how it battles rivals:

| Model | Pros | Cons |
|-------------------------|-----------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------|
| Honda Gold Wing | Smoother transmission, lighter (383 kg) | Lacks Harley’s "cool factor" |
| BMW K 1600 Grand America | 160 hp inline-6, sharper handling | Sterile exhaust note, complex electronics |
| Indian Roadmaster | Class-leading ride quality, powerful engine | Less customization potential |

Verdict: The Harley wins on character and customization. Its air-cooled V-Twin and endless accessories (like MOTOPARTS.store’s performance exhausts) let you craft a truly unique machine.

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Maintenance: Keeping the Legend Alive

Own a CVO Electra Glide? Here’s how to pamper it:

1. Oil Changes: Use synthetic 20W-50 every 5,000 km (3,100 mi). Upgrade to MOTOPARTS.store’s high-performance oil for better heat resistance.
2. Belt Drive: Inspect tension every 10,000 km (6,200 mi). Our store offers reinforced belts for heavy touring.
3. Tire Pressure: 2.5 bar (36 psi) front / 2.8 bar (41 psi) rear. Check monthly—this beast eats tires.
4. Brake Fluid: Flush DOT 4 fluid every 2 years. Consider MOTOPARTS.store’s stainless-steel brake lines for sharper feel.
5. Winter Storage: Fuel stabilizer + battery tender. Our store’s branded kits include everything you need.

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Final Thoughts

The Harley-Davidson CVO Electra Glide Ultra Classic isn’t for everyone—it’s for those who demand the finest. Yes, it’s heavy. Yes, it’s extravagant. But when you’re carving through a canyon with heated grips on and Led Zeppelin blasting from the speakers, you’ll understand why this bike has ruled the touring world for generations.

Ready to make yours even better? Explore MOTOPARTS.store’s curated selection of upgrades, from premium air filters to custom seat kits. Your CVO deserves nothing less.

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Specifications sheet

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