Steady evolution after the Chassis revolution of 2009
Based on the standard Touring Street Glide, this CVO naturally benefits from the all new chassis and suspensions that came out on the 2009 Touring family. The Milwaukee magicians continued their good work for 2010, fine tuning suspensions while preserving the all-important low-low look at both ends, as the marketing bumpfff even talks about the new-for-2010 “Slammed” front fender.

This CVO naturally benefits from the all new chassis and suspensions that came out on the 2009 Touring family.

The ABS-equipped brakes are adequate rather than brilliant, always needing a smart combination of front and rear pressures to optimize retardation – and by the way, get yourself a grip exerciser to build up both hands, as you will need some serious squeezing power for emergency stop when fully loaded.

Year-on-year, one can sense the efforts that H-D is putting in to increase the appeal of every model to new Harley riders, who often “graduate” from lighter, sportier bikes, upon their conversion to the Milwaukee Mysticism.

Typical Harley ergos and adaptability
All Touring models share the Harley-standard straight up riding position; with mid position floorboards just far enough forward to unbend the rider’s legs past 90o. Street Glide riders collectively cover millions of kilometres every year, which tells me that the ergos on this bike obviously work well enough for a great number of people. Add the fact that riders can delve into catalogues to adapt the bike to their needs and morphology, and we are closing in on cruiser-touring perfection here. Unfortunately, moving one’s lower legs forward means placing more weight on your lower back – not always a good thing over bumpy roads.

The windscreen is a better example of adaptability. Most riders can look over rather than through it, and you can buy higher or lower windscreens to get the height you need, and to reduce turbulence such as what I experienced with the standard one. For most buyers, any Harley is but a starting point, to be improved upon as each sees fit. And by the bye, CVO does the best job of all on the appearance side, period!

The dashboard looks as complete as in a car, with nice round analog dials and the required warning lights. Levers and master cylinders are Harley-big, but not to the point of hindering operation of the levers and various switches for turn signals, horn, cruise control and other niceties.

The dashboard looks as complete as in a car.