Topic: CVO Road King with Custom Fairing vs. a Street Glide (Read 21292 times)

JQCVO · « **on:** November 27, 2014, 12:48:24 PM »

Okay, so here's my question:
What would the main difference be, if any, between. CVO RK and a Street Glide if you were to install a custom fairing on the RK?
I have a 2013 CVO RK and am considering getting a custom fairing (Dragonfly, Dead Center, Tsukaya potential companies that make them)for longer trips. The RK and SG are both touring frames, so does this basically accomplish the same thing as having a SG? It certainly seems that way, with the added benefit of being able to strip the RK down whenever you want.
Would love to hear some of your thoughts.
Thanks.....

BigDawgBrent · « **Reply #1 on:** November 27, 2014, 01:56:54 PM »

I just had this great debate with myself for the last few months. I settled on the 2013 CVO Road King With a Dragonfly. Here's my reasoning:

1. Riding is an escape for me. The stripped down cruiser style of the Road King opens up my sight lines to the road and gives me more an open feeling that helps me escape whatever it was I needed to get away from.
2. About 70% of my riding is short distance. While I acknowledge the fairing makes a substantial improvement on long hauls, it's extra weight when I'm running errands around town, etc.
3. The Dragonfly option gives me the fairing when I need it and the stripped down style when I don't... The best of both worlds.
4. The Dragonfly option with the Zumo 665 gives me both GPS and XM radio. Combined with the iPod on the FLHRSE5, I have all the audio options I would use... (FM radio is not needed for me)
5. I live in Texas... We don't have a long harsh winter. I can ride comfortably behind a windshield nearly year round.

I admit... There is a trade off... I came VERY close to buying a 2015 CVO Steet Glide. The Ultraviolet/Lava paint job on that bike is just a beautiful work of art. Also, the upgraded audio will outperform anything I can easily put into my Dragonfly.

But, for me, it came down to "good enough" audio, and the flexibility to build up my bike from a stripped down Road King, to a "Street King" with the Dargonfly, to a "Street King Ultra" with a Tour Pak, and then to strip it all back down again. Ultimate flexibility and enough creature comforts that I shouldn't complain for many years to come.

Bav · « **Reply #2 on:** November 27, 2014, 02:18:35 PM »

Pics please BigDawg

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

JQCVO · « **Reply #3 on:** November 27, 2014, 02:49:24 PM »

Agree - BigDawg show us pics! Great response also, very helpful.
Any other opinions?

Bav · « **Reply #4 on:** November 27, 2014, 03:13:19 PM »

I've got a feeling that finding out about this is going to cost me a lot of money

Still cheaper than looking to part ex for a Street Glide and such a bonus having the flexibility to strip down.

I wonder if they are available in the UK?

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

stratplexi · « **Reply #5 on:** November 28, 2014, 01:12:00 AM »

Had 2 ultras and a Streetglide and sold for a Road King. Just got tired of the fixed bat wing. Detachable is the way to go.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

BigDawgBrent · « **Reply #6 on:** November 29, 2014, 12:51:28 AM »

Sorry guys... No pics yet... Having to fly out to California in a couple weeks to finalize the purchase of my bike. As for the fairing, I've gotten a couple pics from Dragonfly of a unit in process, but I probably won't order that until later next year. It's on my list, but not in my first few upgrade priorities.

Puma · « **Reply #7 on:** November 29, 2014, 08:23:51 AM »

My situation is not the same, but similar. I thought I was going to get a Street Glide or SG Special (non CVO's) next year. I had been riding a Heritage for five years and rarely used the windshield, only putting it on when temps were between forty and the low fifties. When I negotiated a price on a brand new CVO RK that was only about a thousand more than the Street Glide Special the decision was made. More power, nicer paint and wheels, all dressed up with nicer grips, controls, etc., and nicer air intake already in place. I just had to make sure I was ready to buy seven or eight months earlier than planned. Of course, this only works for me because I don't need or want GPS and Stereo. I would say aftermarket fairing sounds like a plan for you. Will you get it painted to match?

Bav · « **Reply #8 on:** November 29, 2014, 08:30:30 AM »

I'm the same as you. I don't want a stereo and I'm happy with my handlebar mounted GPS. I've been looking at Dead Center fairings who just do a plain fairing so no need for a stereo or a big hole in it. I would get it painted to match my CVO complete with tribal graphics which I think would look really cool. Trouble is I don't know if I can get them in the UK.

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

BigDawgBrent · « **Reply #9 on:** November 29, 2014, 11:14:14 AM »

For one of you asking for pics... Here's the work in progress shots from Dragonfly.

BigDawgBrent · « **Reply #10 on:** November 29, 2014, 11:14:46 AM »

Pic 2

BigDawgBrent · « **Reply #11 on:** November 29, 2014, 11:15:26 AM »

Pic 3

Bav · « **Reply #12 on:** November 29, 2014, 11:52:07 AM »

Wow that looks really cool. This forum is sure helping me get through some cash and I thought buying a CVO would mean no need for extra goodies. Boy was I mistaken

Thanks for sharing the pics can't wait to see it on the bike

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

Puma · « **Reply #13 on:** November 29, 2014, 12:09:40 PM »

Quote from: Bav on November 29, 2014, 11:52:07 AM

Wow that looks really cool. This forum is sure helping me get through some cash and I thought buying a CVO would mean no need for extra goodies. Boy was I mistaken

Thanks for sharing the pics can't wait to see it on the bike

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

That's what I thought, too, but for me it is proving true. All I've done is Custom Dynamics led inserts into the front blinkers. My only future plan is an exhaust and tune. Done. Ride it.

JQCVO · « **Reply #14 on:** November 29, 2014, 05:11:41 PM »

I'm beginning to do my research on a custom fairing for my CVO RK. I plan to finalize my choice and have it ready for next spring. It's a tough decision on who to go with, there are a few out there that come highly recommended (I.e. DragonFly, Dead Center). I like Dead Center as their's easily locks in with quick detach.
At a minimum I will get the stereo and tie it into the RK system, adding two in the fairing for a total of six (2 in lowers, 2 in rear lids) which should make for an awesome system. GPS is appealing as well, but I see it offered by DragonFly and not Dead Center. I'll need to confirm this.
I will have it painted to match the custom colors on the bike by Joe at Xtreme Dimensions.
Most of the time I will ride with the windshield that comes with the bike. I like some wind protection. I will use the fairing a few times a year for longer trips. My thought is (my original post on this topic), is that it essentially converts the RK to a Street Glide ( or as BigDawg put it, a Street King) when you put the fairing on. Best of both worlds.

Bav · « **Reply #15 on:** November 29, 2014, 05:35:13 PM »

Just been chatting to some guys on a forum here in the UK. The have gone with Memphis Shade fairings. As I don't want a stereo they look to be a cheap option.

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

Puma · « **Reply #16 on:** November 29, 2014, 05:37:03 PM »

Quote from: Bav on November 29, 2014, 05:35:13 PM

Just been chatting to some guys on a forum here in the UK. The have gone with Memphis Shade fairings. As I don't want a stereo they look to be a cheap option.

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

They make a good windshield. I've never seen one of their fairings except in photos.

Xtreme Dimension · « **Reply #17 on:** November 29, 2014, 06:44:47 PM »

Quote from: Bav on November 29, 2014, 05:35:13 PM

Just been chatting to some guys on a forum here in the UK. The have gone with Memphis Shade fairings. As I don't want a stereo they look to be a cheap option.

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

Memphis for 2013 fusion

JQCVO · « **Reply #18 on:** November 29, 2014, 06:57:55 PM »

Hey Joe,
It's Joe Q from Long Island. Looks awesome! As you know, I just got a 2013 CVO RK in this color. When I eventually get the custom fairing, it's going straight to your shop. This is exactly what I want.
All - Joe from Xtreme Dimension does GREAT work.

Xtreme Dimension · « **Reply #19 on:** November 29, 2014, 10:26:02 PM »

Quote from: JQCVO on November 29, 2014, 06:57:55 PM

Hey Joe,
It's Joe Q from Long Island. Looks awesome! As you know, I just got a 2013 CVO RK in this color. When I eventually get the custom fairing, it's going straight to your shop. This is exactly what I want.
All - Joe from Xtreme Dimension does GREAT work.

Awesome- sounds great to me Joe
Here is one w/ stereo also

harleyteam · « **Reply #20 on:** December 22, 2014, 11:33:56 AM »

There are many different ways to go. I liked my Hoppe detach windshield so much, it hasn't been off the bike for quite awhile.

harleyteam · « **Reply #21 on:** December 22, 2014, 11:36:40 AM »

another view

Bav · « **Reply #22 on:** December 22, 2014, 01:12:55 PM »

Looks great Harleyteam. I have decided to go for a Memphis Shades as I have found a place in the UK who can get them and gives Riders Club discount. Also have found two other RK owners over here that have them fitted and love them. They are a cheap option especially as I don't want a stereo. It will have to wait until I've recovered my finances after Christmas but it's not leaving the garage for a few months anyway. Have to find a good paint shop over here when I have it.

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

T-Roy · « **Reply #23 on:** December 22, 2014, 09:57:16 PM »

Quote from: Bav on December 22, 2014, 01:12:55 PM

Looks great Harleyteam. I have decided to go for a Memphis Shades as I have found a place in the UK who can get them and gives Riders Club discount. Also have found two other RK owners over here that have them fitted and love them. They are a cheap option especially as I don't want a stereo. It will have to wait until I've recovered my finances after Christmas but it's not leaving the garage for a few months anyway. Have to find a good paint shop over here when I have it.

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

Just a thought and an idea but if you are purchasing the fairing from the States why not have it shipped directly to Joe at Xtreme Dimension for the paint. There are probably vendors not far from Joe's place of business in New Jersey. There is not a better CVO painter alive!! Then you can pay to have it shipped to you after he does the painting.

Bav · « **Reply #24 on:** December 23, 2014, 05:59:56 AM »

Hmmm. Tempting. I need a quality guy like that. Can't get my head round what the design of a batwing paint job would look like on a 2014 Orange & Black SERK. Not sure whether to try to incorporate the tribal graphics of keep it plain?

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

casbar · « **Reply #25 on:** December 24, 2014, 04:44:44 AM »

Stupid question - I guess if fitting an after market fairing you need to move the indicators from the handlebars?

Bav · « **Reply #26 on:** December 24, 2014, 04:48:35 AM »

Not a stupid question as I have seen some people leave them where they are and obscure them. I am in the process of installing them and hope to get them wired in today.

Merry Christmas to you and your family

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

casbar · « **Reply #27 on:** December 24, 2014, 06:49:32 AM »

Looks cool

Quick off topic question, how difficult was it to fit your dresser duals and quiet baffles? Cheers, Rob

Bav · « **Reply #28 on:** December 24, 2014, 07:03:14 AM »

The dresser duals were quite easy to fit. Most difficult bit was changing the crushable exhaust gaskets in the head. I should have left them alone. I ruined them getting them out and then had to go to an Indie in Bromsgrove to get some more and they are very hard to get in without any bulges. Also had to get a 1/4" wobble extension as the lower head stud nut at the front is hard to get onto straight to torque up. You also need a 1/2" AF 1/4" drive socket and a very low range torque wrench. Good advice from Phil at Fatboyz on how to do that otherwise I'd have been unaware.

Another good tip is don't forget to loctite the bolts that fix the under pipe bracket to the rear of the gearbox. I didn't and lost both of mine causing the bracket to swing down. Luckily no damage before I spotted it and replaced the bolts. Some people on here have had a rear puncture due to the same problem

I had a more difficult job getting the standard baffles out as I didn't want to remove the slip ons as one of them was a very tight fit and hard to get on. What I did in the end was use a block of wood, some large washers and long bolts of the correct thread to screw into the baffle and use them like an extractor to pull the baffles out. The quiet ones went in easy.

Cheers

Dave

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

RayG · « **Reply #29 on:** December 26, 2014, 12:27:38 PM »

Getting back to the original question since I'm contemplating a similar move, is there any substantial difference in air flow protection between the detachable versus the fixed fairing? This is extremely important to me as I have an 08 SERK with 80,000 miles. Since I have already dropped more money into it than I will ever be able to duplicate and a new bike is out of the question as I just had a S&S 124 installed. I need to know if I'm stuck with the windshield or will a detachable fairing greatly improve the wind issues.

Thanks

Bav · « **Reply #30 on:** December 26, 2014, 06:32:41 PM »

A couple of guys in the UK who have fitted Memphis Shades batwings say that they offer great protection but it depends greatly on the height and type of windshield you choose. I am tempted to go for a low windshield as it looks better but I think you get better air flow with a higher one or a spoiler type. I'm not sure how it will compare to a standard fixed fairing but for me it will be a lot cheaper than changing to a SG. It also depends on your height and what seat you have.

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

CVORoadKing2013 · « **Reply #31 on:** January 04, 2015, 12:34:45 PM »

BigDawg what bars are you running with your DragonFly? I have the same bike but am running wild 1 16" apes have been looking at this fairing just not sure it will work with my apes

BigDawgBrent · « **Reply #32 on:** January 04, 2015, 03:16:27 PM »

I haven't bought the Dragonfly yet, but I have no plans to change my bars - they fit me perfectly fine. Email the guys at Dragonfly and ask, though. They responded fairly quickly when I had questions.

grofcvo · « **Reply #33 on:** January 09, 2015, 02:28:41 PM »

Ordered Dead Center fairing and should be here on Monday or Tuesday, will post a picture when is done, biggest deal is to match paint of my cvo green Sherwood paint...

Bav · « **Reply #34 on:** January 09, 2015, 03:44:57 PM »

Quote from: grofcvo on January 09, 2015, 02:28:41 PM

Ordered Dead Center fairing and should be here on Monday or Tuesday, will post a picture when is done, biggest deal is to match paint of my cvo green Sherwood paint...

Great. Can't wait to see the pics and get some feedback.

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

JQCVO · « **Reply #35 on:** January 09, 2015, 10:16:02 PM »

grocvo,

Joe at Xtreme Dimensions in New Jersey is a highly recommended painter on this site. He has done a lot of work for guys with CVO's (including me) and matches CVO colors perfectly.

JQ

grofcvo · « **Reply #36 on:** January 09, 2015, 11:07:46 PM »

Quote from: JQCVO on January 09, 2015, 10:16:02 PM

grocvo,

Joe at Xtreme Dimensions in New Jersey is a highly recommended painter on this site. He has done a lot of work for guys with CVO's (including me) and matches CVO colors perfectly.

JQ

tnx for that info , got someone locally who is gonna paint it ...

CVORoadKing2013 · « **Reply #37 on:** February 20, 2015, 06:00:32 AM »

I am still throwing around the idea of the Dragon Fly fairing. I am still hesitant with the price. The other thing is I am running 16" wild 1 bars and really don't like the way tall apes look with the batwing. For me the idea of a batwing is more protection from the wind and with anything over 11" it looks like your hands are back in the wind.

I am currently running the stock windshield. At one point last year Clearview contacted me saying they were coming out with a replacement but so far teh project has been pushed pout and they are not sure when they are doing it.

What are some other ideas for changing up the Road King front end?

Jswerve · « **Reply #38 on:** February 20, 2015, 07:21:28 AM »

Quote from: BigDawgBrent on November 29, 2014, 11:14:46 AM

Pic 2

Beautiful

grofcvo · « **Reply #39 on:** February 21, 2015, 06:27:37 PM »

I put my fairing on sale on ebay , just opened box never put on bike. Couldn't find someone that can match paint, and it will cost me more than I expected plus radio and amp , speakers.... so it is for sale.
Fairing looks great almost the same like HD one. I payed like $1500 with windshield and chrome trim so it is on sale on ebay for $800.00 , don't need it to sit in garage and collect dust. If you know someone that is looking for it let him know so he got it for half price and I got some money back. Tnx everyone.
Here is info on ebay:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/301532727968?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1586.l2649

Gandrtravis · « **Reply #40 on:** March 22, 2015, 03:26:48 PM »

Dragonfly just got done mine and it looks great I attaced a picture.

Bav · « **Reply #41 on:** March 22, 2015, 05:17:18 PM »

Ooooo more pics please. How have you found it when riding?

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Gandrtravis · « **Reply #42 on:** March 23, 2015, 07:27:34 AM »

Have not done to much riding yet but it will be a lot better than the wind splitter I'm sure and i don't really like the bigger 21 inch shields so that's why I went this way a lot more expensive but I think it was worth it

Bromebe · « **Reply #43 on:** April 06, 2015, 06:25:07 PM »

evening all,
I'm a new ower of a 2013 SERK also and have been trying to do the research on adding a Fairing also and have seen some good notes regarding the options out there
one, I do not want a Stereo,
two, I'd like to keep the additional lighting and
three, some sort of windsheild would be great since I'm tall, not like the factory set up is keeping me from using some sort of goggle protection,
will keep watching and hope for personal suggestions

Bav · « **Reply #44 on:** April 07, 2015, 03:08:10 AM »

Quote from: Bromebe on April 06, 2015, 06:25:07 PM

evening all,
I'm a new ower of a 2013 SERK also and have been trying to do the research on adding a Fairing also and have seen some good notes regarding the options out there
one, I do not want a Stereo,
two, I'd like to keep the additional lighting and
three, some sort of windsheild would be great since I'm tall, not like the factory set up is keeping me from using some sort of goggle protection,
will keep watching and hope for personal suggestions

I'm going to go for a Memphis Shades one. I too do not want a stereo and they look like they fit around the aux lights ok. A couple of guys over here in the UK have them on Road Kings and they look great. I'll try and find the pics.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Bromebe · « **Reply #45 on:** April 07, 2015, 08:30:03 AM »

I found this one just googling and it looks like the Day Marker lights should fit under this ?

I think the lights are a option from the Factory?
which I'm sure I will be corrected or confirmed?
(think the answer is Option yes, but from the dealer)

no Stereo but sure would like a GPS unit in it?

Xtreme Dimension · « **Reply #46 on:** April 07, 2015, 01:11:54 PM »

Xtreme Dimension · « **Reply #47 on:** April 07, 2015, 01:18:10 PM »

Quote from: Xtreme Dimension on April 07, 2015, 01:11:54 PM

Annv

Bromebe · « **Reply #48 on:** April 07, 2015, 02:59:34 PM »

yep just keep searching and ye shall find te way!

CVORoadKing2013 · « **Reply #49 on:** April 08, 2015, 06:09:32 AM »

Hey Extreme what fairing is that? Can you post a pic of the back side?

Xtreme Dimension · « **Reply #50 on:** April 08, 2015, 07:53:50 AM »

Quote from: CVORoadKing2013 on April 08, 2015, 06:09:32 AM

Hey Extreme what fairing is that? Can you post a pic of the back side?

Hoppe

Xtreme Dimension · « **Reply #51 on:** April 08, 2015, 07:55:50 AM »

Quote from: Xtreme Dimension on April 08, 2015, 07:53:50 AM

Hoppe

Bromebe · « **Reply #52 on:** April 08, 2015, 09:56:25 AM »

uh!
to keep it on subject! (before I get reprimanded again!
I vote 13 SERK with custom Fairing!

CVORoadKing2013 · « **Reply #53 on:** April 30, 2015, 06:46:20 PM »

Xtreme

A few pages back you showed a memphis shades faring you painted. Did you happen to get any pictures of the back side?

What do you charge for the cvo anniversary paint job ( one like the hoppe you painted)?

Xtreme Dimension · « **Reply #54 on:** May 02, 2015, 01:48:12 AM »

Quote from: CVORoadKing2013 on April 30, 2015, 06:46:20 PM

Xtreme

A few pages back you showed a memphis shades faring you painted. Did you happen to get any pictures of the back side?

What do you charge for the cvo anniversary paint job ( one like the hoppe you painted)?

Xtreme Dimension · « **Reply #55 on:** May 02, 2015, 01:49:56 AM »

Quote from: Xtreme Dimension on May 02, 2015, 01:48:12 AM

dont know if these help...I will look for more n PM you as well

grofcvo · « **Reply #56 on:** May 05, 2015, 01:23:33 PM »

This is my latest option for a road king, dyna fairing titanium (from big bear choppers). I had dead center fairing and I didn't like it so I sold it, Road glide fairing is to wide and bulky. So I talked to Kevin at BBC and he said it can be done he needs to make new bracket for RK and that's it... now need to save money for it ($2.500 with lowers). I did one picture with photo shop just to see how it will look , not bad at all , different, custom, unique. ....

Author Topic: CVO Road King with Custom Fairing vs. a Street Glide (Read 21292 times)