Milwaukee's Factory Flare
MILWAUKEE'S FACTORY FLARE
ROUNDUP
THE LATE GEORGE Carlin hated oxymoronic phrases like "jumbo shrimp," which pinged off his ears like sour violin notes. When Harley first pitched its version of the "factory custom" concept, we have to admit it had a similar ring.
But since 1999, factory customs have been created under Harley’s Custom Vehicle Operations (CVO) banner. For 2009, the annual parade of extra chrome, bright paint and increased horsepower includes four models.
The $30,999 CVO Road Glide is far more understated than the original version in 2000. Lower than stock, the latest Glide is further enhanced by the stretched saddlebags. The use of shiny bits and attention to detail is so complete that one wonders if the inside of the fuel tank is gilded or if the pistons have eagles etched into their crowns.
A bevy of high-mounted electronics and a top trunk make the Ultra Classic ($35,499) a bit of a burden to get off the sidestand due to its high center of gravity, but once the bike is under way, riders will appreciate its well-sorted entertainment and navigation systems, the new “sprung” seat (under the foam, there’s a tightly stretched fabric panel) and the grip of the Dunlop dual-com-
pound tires. The
$26,999 CVO Softail Springer was a bit of a revelation in that it’s
surprising how well such an old design can work. It rides comfortably, even over washboard surfaces, while steering is light and precise, despite the wide 240mm rear tire.
The newest CVO is the Fat Bob ($25,299), built on the sweet-handling Dyna platform. Super-chubby tires offer lots of contact patch and a distinct look. The CVO Bob gets a chopped front end to give it a tougher parked stance. It’s not quite as agile as the stock version, but it handles quite well nonetheless.
On road, all four CVO mod els have plenty of gusto thank to the 110-cubic-inch Screamin’ Eagle stroker engine (a claimed 114 ft.-lb. of torque) working through an excellent six-speed transmission that shifts with just the right blend of low effort and positive engagement. More than enough go added to the show.
With big motors, incredible paint and impressive performance, CVO has once again delivered the custom culture in a ready-to-ride package. -Steve Natt
