The 2026 Harley-Davidson CVO Road Glide ST: Milwaukee's Masterpiece Refined
The CVO Road Glide ST has always represented Harley-Davidson's commitment to creating the ultimate bagger, and the 2026 model continues that tradition with a level of refinement that even longtime critics will appreciate.
Power and Performance
At the heart of this beast sits the Milwaukee-Eight 121 engine, delivering a commanding 125 ft-lbs of torque that translates into effortless highway passing power. The engine's refinement is immediately apparent—smooth from idle through redline, with that distinctive Harley rumble that never gets old. The six-speed transmission shifts cleanly, though I'd still appreciate a taller sixth gear for those marathon highway runs.
The ST's handling surprised me on California's twisting Highway 1. For a bike tipping the scales at over 900 pounds fully loaded, it carves corners with unexpected confidence. The suspension—fully adjustable Öhlins units front and rear—soaks up road imperfections while maintaining composure through aggressive sweepers. The Reflex Defensive Rider Systems, including cornering-enhanced ABS and traction control, inspire confidence without feeling intrusive.
The Touring Experience
Where the Road Glide ST truly shines is eating miles. The frame-mounted fairing is a game-changer, eliminating the handlebar shake that plagues fork-mounted fairings and providing rock-solid wind protection. Even at sustained triple-digit speeds, wind buffeting is minimal. The adjustable rider backrest and highway pegs create a comfortable riding triangle that keeps you fresh through 500-mile days.
The BOOM! GTS infotainment system has matured nicely, with intuitive controls and crisp graphics on the standard 6.5-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration work flawlessly, and the premium audio system delivers surprisingly rich sound, even at highway speeds. My only gripe? The system occasionally lags when switching between functions.
Storage capacity is generous—the hard bags swallow a week's worth of gear, and the optional Tour-Pak adds even more capacity. Quick-release mechanisms make accessing your cargo simple, even with gloves on.
CVO Details Matter
The CVO treatment means you're getting the best of everything. Premium paint schemes with intricate graphics, hand-finished details, and upgraded materials throughout create a bike that draws crowds at every fuel stop. The CVO-spec seat is genuinely comfortable for all-day rides, a rarity in the motorcycle world.
LED lighting provides excellent visibility, and the attention to detail in the fit and finish justifies the CVO premium. Chrome components are expertly executed, striking the right balance between flash and class.
The Bottom Line
At its price point, the 2026 CVO Road Glide ST isn't for everyone—and it doesn't need to be. This is Harley-Davidson building the ultimate American touring machine for riders who refuse to compromise. It's a bike that handles confidently, tours effortlessly, and turns heads everywhere it goes.
For riders planning cross-country adventures or simply demanding the best Milwaukee has to offer, the CVO Road Glide ST delivers. It's not just a motorcycle—it's a rolling statement that some things are worth paying for.
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