Harley-Davidson offers a wide range of bikes, including several impressive liquid-cooled models. Leading the pack is the Revolution 1250T engine, a standout in the Harley-Davidson lineup. This engine replaced the renowned Evolution Twin, one of Harley’s best engines. The Revolution 1250T powers the current Sportster S motorcycles, and according to Cycle World, it's arguably the best feature of the bike.
If the Sportster S isn't quite your style, there are other notable options with liquid-cooled engines. The H-D CVO Street Glide and CVO Road Glide models feature the liquid-cooled Milwaukee-Eight VVT 121 engine, one of Harley-Davidson's largest engines. Another liquid-cooled choice is the Milwaukee-Eight 117 engine, available in both the base Street Glide and Road Glide models. Rounding out the lineup is the Ultra Limited, equipped with a twin-cooled Milwaukee-Eight 114 motor that combines air and liquid cooling for a balanced performance.
Liquid-Cooled vs. Air-Cooled Engines
What's the difference between liquid-cooled and air-cooled engines? As their names suggest, liquid-cooled engines use liquid to regulate temperature, while air-cooled engines rely on airflow. You don't need to rush to replace your current motorcycle with a liquid-cooled one, but these engines offer some compelling advantages.
One of the most significant benefits is more consistent temperature control, enhancing comfort during rides by reducing the heat emitted from the engine. However, liquid-cooled engines come with more parts, such as a water pump and radiator, which could require maintenance. In contrast, air-cooled engines are simpler and might be preferable for riders looking to minimize upkeep. Both options have their merits, depending on your maintenance preferences and riding needs.