Hey guys, ever found yourself scratching your head, trying to figure out which Harley-Davidson Trike is the ultimate ride? Today, we're diving deep into the Tri Glide Ultra and the CVO Tri Glide, comparing these magnificent machines to help you decide which one deserves a spot in your garage. Let's get started!

Overview of Tri Glide Ultra

When we talk about the Tri Glide Ultra, we're talking about a touring icon that has redefined what it means to travel on three wheels. This model is a staple in Harley-Davidson's lineup, known for its blend of comfort, convenience, and classic styling. It’s designed for those long, cross-country adventures where the journey is just as important as the destination. The Tri Glide Ultra offers a unique riding experience, combining the stability of a trike with the features and amenities of a high-end touring bike. From its comfortable seating and ample storage to its advanced technology and powerful engine, the Tri Glide Ultra is built to handle the open road with ease and style. It's a machine that inspires confidence, allowing riders to embark on epic adventures with peace of mind.

The Tri Glide Ultra stands out with its air-cooled Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine, offering a robust 114 cubic inches of displacement. This engine delivers a smooth and powerful ride, making it perfect for long hauls and challenging terrains. The trike's frame is specifically designed to handle the added weight and dimensions, ensuring stability and maneuverability. The suspension system, featuring emulsion technology, provides a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and vibrations effectively. When it comes to comfort, the Tri Glide Ultra doesn't disappoint. It features a plush, two-up seat with a backrest for the passenger, ensuring both rider and passenger can enjoy long journeys without discomfort. The infotainment system, complete with a color touchscreen, navigation, and premium audio, keeps you connected and entertained on the road. Additionally, the Tri Glide Ultra offers ample storage space, with a trunk and Tour-Pak, providing plenty of room for luggage and essentials. All these features combine to make the Tri Glide Ultra a top choice for riders seeking a comfortable, reliable, and enjoyable touring experience. It’s a machine that embodies the spirit of adventure and the freedom of the open road.

Overview of CVO Tri Glide

The CVO Tri Glide, on the other hand, represents the pinnacle of Harley-Davidson's custom vehicle operations. CVO stands for Custom Vehicle Operations, and it signifies a level of exclusivity and craftsmanship that sets these models apart from the rest. The CVO Tri Glide is not just a trike; it's a statement. It's for riders who demand the absolute best in terms of performance, style, and features. These models typically feature unique paint schemes, premium finishes, and a host of exclusive accessories that elevate the riding experience to a whole new level. The CVO Tri Glide is a testament to Harley-Davidson's commitment to innovation and luxury, offering a ride that is as comfortable as it is stylish, as powerful as it is refined. It’s a machine that exudes confidence and sophistication, designed for those who want to make a lasting impression wherever they go.

At the heart of the CVO Tri Glide lies the potent Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine, an upgrade from the Tri Glide Ultra's 114. This engine delivers even more power and torque, providing an exhilarating riding experience. The CVO Tri Glide also boasts premium paint options, often featuring intricate designs and meticulous attention to detail. These unique paint schemes are not just colors; they are works of art that enhance the trike's visual appeal. Inside, you'll find heated seats and grips, ensuring comfort in any weather conditions. The advanced infotainment system, with wireless headset interface, provides seamless connectivity and entertainment on the road. The CVO Tri Glide also includes a suite of safety features, such as cornering ABS, traction control, and drag-torque slip control, enhancing rider confidence and control. These features work together to provide a safe and enjoyable riding experience. Furthermore, the CVO Tri Glide comes with exclusive badging and accessories, adding to its exclusivity and appeal. It's a machine that represents the ultimate in Harley-Davidson luxury and performance, designed for riders who demand nothing but the best.

Key Differences

Okay, let's break down the main differences between these two awesome trikes. Understanding these distinctions will help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.

Engine and Performance

When it comes to raw power, the CVO Tri Glide takes the lead with its Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine. This engine packs more punch compared to the Tri Glide Ultra's Milwaukee-Eight 114. While both engines offer smooth and reliable performance, the 117 provides that extra bit of oomph for those who crave more power and quicker acceleration. If you're the type of rider who loves to feel the surge of power with every twist of the throttle, the CVO Tri Glide might be more your style. However, the Tri Glide Ultra still offers plenty of power for most riders, making it a great choice for long-distance touring and everyday riding. The difference in engine size translates to a noticeable difference in performance, but both trikes are capable of delivering an enjoyable and confident riding experience.

Features and Amenities

The CVO Tri Glide steps up the game with a host of premium features. Think heated seats and grips for those chilly rides, a more advanced infotainment system with wireless headset interface, and exclusive styling details that set it apart. The CVO is all about luxury and convenience, offering a more refined riding experience. On the other hand, the Tri Glide Ultra still offers a comprehensive set of features, including a comfortable seat, ample storage, and a user-friendly infotainment system. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of the CVO, it provides everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable ride. The choice here depends on your priorities. If you value the extra comfort and convenience features, the CVO Tri Glide is the way to go. If you're happy with a more basic but still well-equipped trike, the Tri Glide Ultra is a great option.

Styling and Aesthetics

Styling is where the CVO Tri Glide truly shines. It boasts unique paint schemes, premium finishes, and exclusive badging that scream luxury. These models often feature hand-painted details and intricate designs that are not available on the standard Tri Glide Ultra. The attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the CVO's design, from the custom wheels to the premium lighting. The Tri Glide Ultra has its own classic charm, but it doesn't quite match the exclusivity of the CVO. If you're looking to make a statement and stand out from the crowd, the CVO Tri Glide is the clear winner. Its unique styling and premium finishes will turn heads wherever you go. However, if you prefer a more understated look, the Tri Glide Ultra is still a great choice. It offers a timeless design that is both stylish and functional.

Price

And now, let's talk about the elephant in the room: price. The CVO Tri Glide comes with a hefty price tag, reflecting its premium features and exclusive styling. It's an investment for those who want the best of the best and are willing to pay for it. The Tri Glide Ultra, while still not cheap, is more accessible to a wider range of riders. It offers a great balance of features and performance at a more reasonable price point. If you're on a budget, the Tri Glide Ultra is the more sensible choice. However, if money is no object and you want the ultimate in Harley-Davidson luxury, the CVO Tri Glide is worth the splurge. Consider your budget and how much you value the extra features and styling when making your decision. Remember, both trikes offer a great riding experience, so it's important to choose the one that fits your needs and budget.

Pros and Cons

To make things even clearer, here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons of each model:

Tri Glide Ultra

Pros:

• More affordable
• Comfortable for long rides
• Ample storage space
• Reliable Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine

Cons:

• Fewer premium features compared to CVO
• Less powerful engine than CVO
• Less exclusive styling

CVO Tri Glide

Pros:

• More powerful Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine
• Premium features like heated seats and advanced infotainment
• Exclusive styling and finishes
• Enhanced comfort and convenience

Cons:

• Higher price tag
• Potentially higher maintenance costs
• May be too flashy for some riders

Which One is Right for You?

Choosing between the Tri Glide Ultra and the CVO Tri Glide really boils down to your personal preferences and budget. If you're looking for a comfortable, reliable, and affordable touring trike, the Tri Glide Ultra is an excellent choice. It offers everything you need for long-distance adventures without breaking the bank. On the other hand, if you want the ultimate in Harley-Davidson luxury and performance, and you're willing to pay for it, the CVO Tri Glide is the way to go. It's a statement piece that offers a unique and unforgettable riding experience.

Consider what you value most in a motorcycle. Are you prioritizing comfort, performance, styling, or price? Think about how you plan to use the trike. Will you be taking long trips, or will you be mostly riding around town? Do you prefer a more understated look, or do you want to stand out from the crowd? Answering these questions will help you narrow down your options and make the right choice. Ultimately, the best way to decide is to test ride both models and see which one feels right for you. Get a feel for the handling, the power, and the comfort. Talk to other riders and get their opinions. Do your research and make an informed decision. With the right trike, you'll be able to enjoy countless miles of open road and create memories that will last a lifetime.

No matter which model you choose, both the Tri Glide Ultra and the CVO Tri Glide are exceptional machines that offer a unique and enjoyable riding experience. It's all about finding the one that fits your style, your needs, and your budget. Happy riding!