HARLEY-Davidson has introduced its most powerful motorcycle ever available for public roads, but a significant portion of the fanbase is expressing dissatisfaction with the unveiling.
The iconic motorcycle manufacturer showcased their 2025 CVO Road Glide RR in a promotional video shared on social media, following its announcement at a press conference held in Austin, Texas.
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The new CVO Road Glide RR is designed on Harley’s touring platform and features a 131 cubic-inch engine that delivers an impressive 153 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque.
However, aspiring owners may find it challenging to obtain one, as only 131 units of this model will be produced, and it carries a hefty starting price of $110,000.
This price point marks the highest ever set by the company for one of its motorcycles, which is said to honor its participation in the renowned “King of the Baggers” motorcycle race series.
During the press event, Jason Kehl, Harley’s Product Development Leader, remarked: “A project like this, a motorcycle of this exclusivity, hand-crafted with only 131 units, wouldn’t be viable without the complete backing of the company.
“This is a ‘factory motorcycle.’ Harley Davidson has referred to that term, pertaining to racing, since 1914.”
For those unaware, Mission King of the Baggers features Harley’s heavier bikes – equipped with fairings and saddlebags – competing against their sole American competitor, Indian Motorcycle.
With this latest model, Harley aims to capitalize on the growing popularity of the racing series, although the response from fans has not met the company’s expectations.
In comments on the unveiling video shared on Facebook, many users voiced their confusion regarding Harley’s choice to launch such an expensive motorcycle.
One commenter said: “Yeah, this is just what people want right now in this economy…spending $150,000 on a Harley after taxes.”
Another remarked: “This is an answer to a question no one asked. You already make $30K bikes with technology that can’t compete against Japanese models priced a third less.”
“Instead of addressing that – you roll out this?”
A third user commented: “If this was the surprise you teased for three quarters, you’re going to disappoint a majority of your audience.
“You’ve missed your target, a swing and miss, HD.”
However, not all feedback was negative.
An optimistic user stated: “For someone who desires the absolute best…here’s your motorcycle, and if I could, I certainly would be interested.”
In a similar vein, Indian released its own race replica, the Challenger RR, in 2023, which was intended strictly for track use—but sales were poor.
Only 29 units were produced, initially priced at $92,229, and the Challenger RR is still available at various dealers for less than the original cost.
In recent months, shares of Harley-Davidson have declined, with motorcycle sales witnessing a third consecutive annual drop.
Escalating prices and interest rates have largely deterred potential buyers.
Harley-Davidson closures in 2024
There are over 650 Harley-Davidson dealerships around the United States.
Nevertheless, various locations have closed for numerous reasons throughout 2024, with little explanation provided.
Below is a list of some Harley-Davidson outlets that have shut down this year:
The San Francisco location closed in June after 110 years of operation due to ‘chaos’ caused by new management.
Miracle City Harley-Davidson in Titusville, Florida, ceased operations in September with no reason specified.
Harley-Davidson’s landmark shop in New York City closed on September 28, with the owner citing economic challenges.
Reiman’s Harley-Davidson dealership in Kewanee, Illinois, shut its doors in October after the ownership transferred the business to the Walter Brothers Harley Davidson dealership in Peoria, Illinois.
Additionally, the dealership in West Bend, Wisconsin, will be temporarily closing for the season from November 2 until April 1, 2024.
