Which CVO™ Road Glide® Is Right for Your Rides Around Dayton, OH?
Queen City Harley-Davidson - Which CVO™ Road Glide Is Right for Your Rides Around Dayton, OH?
Riders weighing the 2025 Harley-Davidson CVO™ Road Glide ST against the 2025 Harley-Davidson CVO™ Road Glide often ask one central question: which engine and chassis personality better matches my everyday rides, weekend trips, and ambition to keep growing as a rider? This guide focuses on that core FAQ, then builds out the details so you can decide quickly and confidently.
At a glance, both motorcycles share a modern touring foundation — sharknose fairing, 12.3-inch TFT with Skyline™ OS, integrated H-D Audio Powered by Rockford Fosgate Stage II — but each is tuned for a different style of momentum. The ST embraces closed-course capability and lightweight, hard-edged components; the CVO™ Road Glide emphasizes a broad torque curve with premium finishes and smooth, intuitive control. Queen City Harley-Davidson is serving Mason, Batavia, and Dayton with both models, so you can choose your ideal blend of speed, tech, and refinement without compromise.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the real-world difference between the Milwaukee-Eight 121 HO and the Milwaukee-Eight VVT 121?
Think of the HO as the high-strung athlete — 127 horsepower, 145 ft-lb of torque, and a rev limit raised to 5,900 rpm. It hits hard and keeps pulling, which you feel as an immediate surge and top-end eagerness. The VVT 121 is tuned for everywhere torque and velvety thrust; variable valve timing optimizes valve events based on rpm, so low-end response stays stout, midrange passing is effortless, and top-end power arrives smoothly.
How do the ride modes compare, especially for riders who want occasional track time but mostly ride on the street?
Both motorcycles offer multiple ride modes that adjust throttle response, engine braking, and traction intervention. The ST adds Track and Track + modes, which are calibrated specifically for closed-course riding — they prioritize direct response and performance parameters. Street-focused riders can still use less aggressive modes on the ST for daily commuting or touring, while the CVO™ Road Glide’s mode set is tuned for consistent, composed behavior in a wide range of conditions.
Does the suspension feel very different between the two models?
Yes. The ST features fully adjustable 47 mm SHOWA inverted forks and dual outboard SHOWA remote reservoir rear shocks, allowing precise tuning for rider weight and riding style. The CVO™ Road Glide uses 47 mm SHOWA inverted forks with asymmetric rear shocks and quick preload adjustment — ideal for rapid setup changes due to passenger or luggage while maintaining plush road manners.
Is there a noticeable difference in sound and weight from the exhaust systems?
The ST’s lightweight titanium mufflers contribute to sharper responses and a distinct, muscular exhaust tone. They also reduce overall mass, which enhances the sensation of agility during transitions and braking. The CVO™ Road Glide’s system is tuned for a refined soundtrack that complements its luxury touring profile.
For many riders, the decision comes down to how often they seek peak performance feedback versus maximum ease on long days. If you value the feel of a more responsive front end, aggressive ergonomics, and additional closed-course modes, the ST’s race-inspired build will likely speak your language. If your priority is a wide, consistent torque band, quick preload adjustments for changing payloads, and a seamless luxury fit and finish, the CVO™ Road Glide delivers the experience you expect from the CVO™ badge.
Both models share standout tech that enhances any ride. The 12.3-inch TFT display is bright and intuitive, with Skyline™ OS supporting navigation overlays for traffic and weather, plus easy access to ride modes and audio. H-D Audio Powered by Rockford Fosgate Stage II brings rich, immersive sound through fairing and saddlebag speaker locations, whether you are rolling across town or crossing state lines. These are modern touring cockpits designed to work quietly in the background so you can keep your focus out front.
- Power delivery: The HO emphasizes urgency and peak output, while the VVT 121 spreads torque across the rev range for effortless passing.
- Ride modes: Both offer multiple modes; only the ST adds Track and Track + for closed-course riding.
- Suspension tuning: ST features fully adjustable forks and remote reservoir shocks; CVO™ Road Glide prioritizes quick preload changes and plush composure.
- Weight-saving components: ST leverages a forged carbon fiber front fender and titanium mufflers for nimble handling.
- Shared tech: Both include a 12.3-inch TFT with Skyline™ OS and Rockford Fosgate Stage II audio.
- Define your priorities: Decide whether peak performance feedback or long-distance refinement matters more on most rides.
- Consider your routes: If your roads are tight and technical, the ST’s chassis and modes shine; for varied terrain and mileage, the CVO™ Road Glide is a smooth operator.
- Plan your payloads: Frequent passenger or luggage changes favor the CVO™ Road Glide’s quick preload adjustments.
- Envision your growth: If you want to develop track skills alongside street miles, the ST’s added modes and components provide room to grow.
Whether your days are built around weekday commuting, weekend loops, or ambitious tours, the clarity between these two CVO™ models makes the choice a rewarding one. Define what you want to feel at the bars, what kind of power delivery you prefer, and how you interact with your motorcycle’s tech — you will find that one of these CVO™ Road Glide powerhouses aligns brilliantly with your vision for the road ahead.