Tri Glide Ultra Vs. CVO Tri Glide: Which Is Best?

by Jhon Lennon 50 views

Hey guys, ever found yourself scratching your head, trying to figure out which Harley-Davidson Trike is the ultimate ride? Well, you're not alone! Today, we're diving deep into the world of Harley-Davidson trikes, specifically pitting the Tri Glide Ultra against the CVO Tri Glide. These two machines represent the pinnacle of three-wheeled touring, but they cater to slightly different tastes and priorities. So, buckle up, and let's get ready to rumble!

What is Tri Glide Ultra?

The Tri Glide Ultra is Harley-Davidson's workhorse trike, designed for long-haul comfort and practicality. It's the go-to choice for riders who prioritize a smooth, stable ride with ample storage and passenger accommodations. Think of it as the ultimate road trip machine, built to devour miles with ease. Its classic styling and robust features make it a popular choice among seasoned riders and those looking for a reliable and comfortable touring experience.

The Tri Glide Ultra boasts a powerful Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine, delivering plenty of torque for effortless cruising and confident passing. The suspension is tuned for a plush ride, soaking up bumps and imperfections in the road. The integrated trunk and Tour-Pak offer a generous amount of storage space, perfect for carrying luggage, gear, and souvenirs. Passenger comfort is also a top priority, with a spacious seat, backrest, and armrests providing a relaxed and enjoyable ride. The infotainment system keeps you connected and entertained on the go, with features like navigation, music streaming, and hands-free calling.

The Tri Glide Ultra is more than just a motorcycle; it's a statement. It says, "I'm ready to explore the open road, and I want to do it in comfort and style." Whether you're planning a cross-country adventure or simply enjoying a weekend ride, the Tri Glide Ultra is a capable and reliable companion that will make every journey a memorable one. It's a testament to Harley-Davidson's commitment to building motorcycles that are not only fun to ride but also practical and comfortable for riders of all ages and experience levels. With its blend of classic styling, modern technology, and unmatched comfort, the Tri Glide Ultra remains a top choice for riders seeking the ultimate three-wheeled touring experience.

What is CVO Tri Glide?

The CVO Tri Glide, on the other hand, is the luxury liner of the Harley-Davidson trike world. CVO stands for Custom Vehicle Operations, and that designation means you're getting a machine dripping with premium features, exclusive finishes, and over-the-top styling. This is the trike for riders who want to make a statement and demand the very best. It's not just about the ride; it's about the experience, the exclusivity, and the sheer wow factor.

From its eye-catching paint schemes to its hand-crafted details, the CVO Tri Glide exudes luxury and sophistication. It features a more powerful Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine, providing even more torque and acceleration than the Tri Glide Ultra. The suspension is often upgraded with premium components for an even smoother and more controlled ride. The infotainment system is top-of-the-line, with advanced features and a premium sound system. And, of course, there are plenty of exclusive CVO touches, such as unique badging, custom seats, and premium accessories.

The CVO Tri Glide is for riders who appreciate the finer things in life and are willing to pay a premium for them. It's a status symbol, a head-turner, and a testament to Harley-Davidson's ability to create truly exceptional motorcycles. Whether you're cruising down Main Street or embarking on a long-distance tour, the CVO Tri Glide will make you feel like royalty. It's an experience that is as unforgettable as it is exhilarating, combining performance, luxury, and style in a way that few other motorcycles can match. If you're looking for the ultimate expression of Harley-Davidson trike ownership, the CVO Tri Glide is the only choice.

Key Differences: Tri Glide Ultra vs. CVO Tri Glide

Okay, so we've introduced the contenders. Now, let's break down the key differences between the Tri Glide Ultra and the CVO Tri Glide:

  • Engine: The CVO Tri Glide boasts a more powerful Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine compared to the Tri Glide Ultra's Milwaukee-Eight 114. This translates to more horsepower and torque, resulting in quicker acceleration and more effortless passing.
  • Features and Finishes: This is where the CVO Tri Glide truly shines. It features premium paint schemes, hand-crafted details, exclusive badging, and a host of other luxury touches that set it apart from the Tri Glide Ultra.
  • Price: As you might expect, the CVO Tri Glide commands a significantly higher price tag than the Tri Glide Ultra. This reflects the higher-end components, exclusive features, and limited production numbers.
  • Suspension: While both models offer a comfortable ride, the CVO Tri Glide often features upgraded suspension components for even greater smoothness and control.
  • Infotainment: The CVO Tri Glide typically comes equipped with a more advanced infotainment system, including a premium sound system and additional features.

Performance Comparison

When it comes to performance, the CVO Tri Glide has a slight edge thanks to its more powerful engine. The Milwaukee-Eight 117 provides noticeable gains in both horsepower and torque, resulting in quicker acceleration and more responsive throttle. However, the Tri Glide Ultra is no slouch either. Its Milwaukee-Eight 114 delivers plenty of power for comfortable cruising and confident passing. Both models handle well for their size and offer a stable and predictable ride.

The upgraded suspension on the CVO Tri Glide further enhances its handling capabilities, providing a smoother and more controlled ride, particularly on rough roads. The brakes on both models are more than adequate, providing strong and reliable stopping power. Overall, both the Tri Glide Ultra and the CVO Tri Glide offer excellent performance for a three-wheeled touring motorcycle. The choice ultimately comes down to your individual preferences and priorities. If you prioritize raw power and performance, the CVO Tri Glide is the clear winner. However, if you're looking for a more balanced and affordable option, the Tri Glide Ultra is an excellent choice.

Comfort and Ergonomics

Both the Tri Glide Ultra and the CVO Tri Glide are designed for long-distance comfort, but there are some subtle differences in their ergonomics. The Tri Glide Ultra features a more traditional touring seat that provides ample support and cushioning for both the rider and passenger. The CVO Tri Glide often comes with a custom seat that is designed to provide even greater comfort and style. The handlebars on both models are positioned for a relaxed and upright riding posture, minimizing strain on the back and wrists.

The passenger accommodations on both models are excellent, with a spacious seat, backrest, and armrests providing a comfortable and enjoyable ride. The integrated trunk and Tour-Pak offer a generous amount of storage space, perfect for carrying luggage, gear, and souvenirs. Overall, both the Tri Glide Ultra and the CVO Tri Glide offer exceptional comfort and ergonomics for long-distance touring. The choice ultimately comes down to your individual preferences and priorities. If you prioritize a more traditional touring seat, the Tri Glide Ultra is a great choice. However, if you're looking for a custom seat with even greater comfort and style, the CVO Tri Glide is worth considering.

Style and Features

Style is subjective, but there's no denying that the CVO Tri Glide is the more visually striking of the two. Its premium paint schemes, hand-crafted details, and exclusive badging give it a distinctive and luxurious look. The Tri Glide Ultra offers a more classic and understated style, with traditional Harley-Davidson styling cues. In terms of features, the CVO Tri Glide comes loaded with premium amenities, such as a top-of-the-line infotainment system, upgraded suspension components, and exclusive accessories.

The Tri Glide Ultra offers a more basic but still comprehensive set of features, including an infotainment system, cruise control, and ample storage space. Both models come standard with antilock brakes (ABS) and other safety features. Overall, the CVO Tri Glide offers a more luxurious and feature-rich experience, while the Tri Glide Ultra provides a more practical and affordable option. The choice ultimately comes down to your individual preferences and budget. If you prioritize style and features above all else, the CVO Tri Glide is the clear winner. However, if you're looking for a more balanced and affordable option, the Tri Glide Ultra is an excellent choice.

Which Trike is Right for You?

So, which trike should you choose? Here's a quick rundown to help you decide:

  • Choose the Tri Glide Ultra if:
    • You prioritize value and practicality.
    • You want a comfortable and reliable touring machine.
    • You prefer a more classic and understated style.
  • Choose the CVO Tri Glide if:
    • You want the ultimate in luxury and exclusivity.
    • You demand the best performance and features.
    • You're willing to pay a premium for a truly special machine.

Ultimately, the best way to decide is to test ride both models and see which one feels right for you. Talk to your local Harley-Davidson dealer, ask questions, and get a feel for each trike's unique personality. Happy riding, guys!