The 2026 Harley-Davidson® CVO™ Road Glide® ST is engineered as a performance-oriented touring motorcycle that integrates high-output power, adjustable suspension, and advanced electronic systems. This model applies Custom Vehicle Operations development standards to deliver measurable performance gains across engine output, chassis control, and rider interface systems. Its specifications reflect a structured approach to balancing long-distance capability with responsive handling characteristics. The motorcycle combines a large-displacement V-twin engine, reinforced frame construction, and integrated rider safety technologies designed to maintain stability and control under varying riding conditions.
Engine Configuration and Output Metrics
The 2026 Harley-Davidson® CVO™ Road Glide® ST is powered by the Milwaukee-Eight® 121 High Output engine. This engine features a displacement of 121 cubic inches, equivalent to 1,977 cubic centimeters. The bore measures 4.075 inches, while the stroke extends to 4.6 inches, forming a configuration designed to support torque-focused performance across a wide operating range. The compression ratio is set at 11.4 to 1, supporting efficient combustion and increased power output.
The engine produces 127 horsepower at 4,900 revolutions per minute. Torque output reaches 145 foot-pounds at 4,000 revolutions per minute. These values indicate a performance profile that prioritizes mid-range acceleration and sustained pulling capability. The torque testing follows the J1349 standard, ensuring consistency in measurement methodology.
The valvetrain consists of pushrod-operated overhead valves with hydraulic self-adjusting lifters. Each cylinder contains four valves, supporting airflow efficiency and combustion stability. Fuel delivery is managed through Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection, which meters fuel precisely for consistent throttle response and optimized fuel distribution.
Air intake is supported by a fiberglass, washable air cleaner that enables long-term maintenance without frequent replacement. Exhaust flow is managed through a 2-1-2 dual exhaust configuration with tapered mufflers. This system is designed to maintain exhaust velocity while supporting engine efficiency. Lubrication is handled by a pressurized dry-sump system, which maintains oil circulation under sustained load and varying operating conditions.
Drivetrain Architecture and Gear Ratios
Power from the engine is transferred through a chain-driven primary system with a 34 to 46 ratio. The final drive uses a belt system with a 30 to 68 ratio, providing durability and reduced maintenance compared to chain-driven final systems.
The clutch is a mechanically actuated 10-plate wet design with assist and slip functionality. This configuration reduces lever effort while improving control during aggressive downshifting. It also minimizes rear-wheel instability during rapid deceleration.
The transmission is a 6-speed Cruise Drive® system. Gear ratios are calibrated to support acceleration in lower gears and stable cruising in higher gears. The first gear ratio is 10.233, followed by 7.093 in second gear, 5.268 in third gear, 4.266 in fourth gear, 3.635 in fifth gear, and 3.067 in sixth gear. These ratios provide a structured progression that aligns engine output with road speed and rider input.
Frame Construction and Structural Design
The frame uses a mild steel tubular structure with a two-piece stamped and welded backbone. Cast and forged junctions reinforce critical stress points, supporting durability and rigidity. The design includes twin downtubes and a bolt-on rear frame with forged fender supports. The frame is assembled using MIG welding techniques, ensuring consistent structural integrity.
The swingarm is constructed from mild steel using a two-piece drawn and welded section. Forged junctions increase strength in high-load areas. This design contributes to stable rear-wheel tracking and predictable handling response.
The wheelbase measures 64 inches, which supports directional stability at higher speeds. Steering geometry includes a rake angle of 26 degrees and a fork angle of 29.25 degrees. The trail is measured at 6.7 inches. These values contribute to a balance between straight-line stability and responsive steering input.
Suspension System and Ride Control
The front suspension consists of 47-millimeter inverted forks. These forks include adjustable preload, compression damping, and rebound damping. This level of adjustability allows tuning based on rider preference, load conditions, and road surface characteristics.
Rear suspension uses an emulsion shock system with adjustable preload, compression damping, and rebound damping. This configuration provides flexibility in ride setup and maintains consistent performance across varying loads.
Suspension travel is measured at 4.6 inches in the front and 3 inches in the rear. These values provide a balance between ride comfort and handling precision. The system is designed to maintain tire contact with the road surface while absorbing irregularities without excessive movement.
Wheel and Tire Specifications
The motorcycle is equipped with black 7-spoke cast aluminum wheels. The front wheel has a diameter of 19 inches and a width of 3.5 inches. The rear wheel measures 18 inches in diameter and 5 inches in width.
Tires are part of the Dunlop® Harley-Davidson® Series. The front tire specification is 130 over 60B19, while the rear tire specification is 180 over 55B18. These tire dimensions support traction, stability, and controlled handling under different riding conditions.
Braking System and Control Features
The braking system includes dual front brakes with 4-piston fixed radial-mounted calipers. The rear brake uses a single axial-mounted caliper.
Front brake rotors are wave-style dual floating discs with a diameter of 12.6 inches and a thickness of 0.18 inches. The rear rotor is a fixed disc measuring 11.8 inches in diameter with a thickness of 0.28 inches.
An anti-lock Braking System is included as standard equipment. This system prevents wheel lock during braking and maintains control under reduced traction conditions. Electronic Linked Braking distributes braking force between front and rear wheels to improve stopping efficiency.
Dimensions, Weight, and Capacity
The overall length of the motorcycle is 94.9 inches. The width measures 36.4 inches, and the height is 50.4 inches. These dimensions define the physical presence of the motorcycle and influence aerodynamics and rider ergonomics.
Seat height is 27.5 inches when laden and 28.3 inches when unladen. This positioning supports a low center of gravity, improving balance during low-speed operation and stops.
Ground clearance is measured at 5.1 inches, providing sufficient clearance for cornering while maintaining a stable ride height.
Weight is 838 pounds in running order. The gross vehicle weight rating is 1,360 pounds. Fuel capacity is 6 gallons, supporting extended riding distances without frequent refueling. Luggage capacity is 2.42 cubic feet, allowing storage for touring requirements.
Electrical System and Lighting Components
The electrical system includes a sealed 12-volt battery with a capacity of 28 amp-hours and a rating of 405 cold cranking amps. This battery is designed for maintenance-free operation and consistent starting performance.
Charging is managed by a three-phase system rated at 58 amps, producing up to 754 watts of power. This output supports all onboard electronics and accessories.
The starting system uses a 1.6 kilowatt electric starter with solenoid shift engagement. This ensures reliable ignition under various operating conditions.
Lighting systems use LED technology across all major components, including the headlamp, tail and stop lights, and turn signals. LED lighting improves visibility and reduces power consumption compared to traditional lighting systems.
Infotainment System and Connectivity Features
The infotainment system operates on Skyline™ OS and is displayed through a 12.3-inch full-color TFT screen. This display integrates digital gauges, navigation, and media controls into a single interface.
Audio output is delivered through two 6.5-inch fairing-mounted speakers. Each channel produces 125 watts, supporting clear rumble reproduction at varying speeds.
The system supports AM and FM radio, as well as media playback through USB connections. A USB-C port located in the inner fairing storage provides a 15-watt power output for device charging and connectivity.
Bluetooth® functionality allows connection to mobile devices for hands-free communication and media streaming. Apple CarPlay® compatibility is included and can be used through wired or wireless connections.
Navigation is embedded within the system and provides traffic and weather updates through a Wi-Fi hotspot connection. Vehicle information such as air temperature, oil pressure, and engine idle temperature management system status is displayed within the interface.
Rider Safety and Electronic Control Systems
The 2026 Harley-Davidson® CVO™ Road Glide® ST includes multiple rider safety systems designed to support control and stability. The traction control system regulates rear wheel spin under acceleration. The drag-torque Slip Control System reduces rear wheel lock during deceleration. Vehicle Hold Control assists in maintaining position when stopped on an incline. The Tire Pressure Monitoring System provides continuous tire pressure data to the rider.
Cornering-enhanced systems adjust performance based on lean angle. Cornering Enhanced Anti-lock Braking System modifies braking response during turns. Cornering Enhanced Electronic Linked Braking distributes braking force based on lean angle. Cornering Enhanced Traction Control System regulates power delivery during cornering. Cornering Drag-Torque Slip Control System improves stability during downshifting in turns.
Schedule a Test Ride at Harley-Davidson® of Panama City Beach
We invite you to examine the technical capabilities of the 2026 Harley-Davidson® CVO™ Road Glide® ST through a scheduled test ride at Harley-Davidson® of Panama City Beach within Panama City Beach, FL. During your visit, you can assess the engine output, suspension adjustability, and braking response under controlled conditions. You will have the opportunity to evaluate how the drivetrain ratios and electronic systems interact during acceleration and deceleration. Our team will assist in configuring the suspension and display settings to match your riding preferences. Contact us to arrange a test ride and review the system features in detail.
