2013 Harley Davidson FLHXSE2 CVO Softail Convertible

2013 Harley-Davidson FLHXSE2 CVO Softail Convertible

Also in its second year as a Harley-Davidson CVO, the new 2013 Harley Davidson FLSTSE2 CVO Softail Convertible is designed to quickly morph from a custom cruiser to a touring machine in seconds, thanks to its detachable fairing, leather saddlebags, passenger pillion and backrest. For 2013, however, the Convertible offers even more touring amenities, including a new Delphi-manufactured ABS system, a cruise control that’s integrated with the Convertible’s Electronic Throttle Control fly-by-wire system and an iPod/MP3-compatible audio system.

While the cruise control unit functions the same as on Harley’s FL models, the Convertible’s brand new Delphi manufactured ABS system is unique to the Softail family (Harley officials let it slip well in advance of the production model launch that ABS will be offered as an option on all Softails in 2012 as well). Unlike the single two-channel system modulator on FLs, the Harley-Davidson FLHXSE2 CVO Softail Convertible system uses two single-channel modulators. The front modulator is hidden between the front and rear headlight covers, and the rear modulator is hidden between the transmission and the mudflap on the front of the rear fender.

Housed in the fairing, which can be removed just as quickly as last year’s model, the audio unit features a 20W-per-channel amplifier that powers a pair of integrated two-way speakers. It has on/off and volume control, but it does not allow the rider to scroll through menus or playlists, nor can it charge the iPod or MP3 player on the fly like the FL CVOs can. The 2013 FLSTSE2 CVO Softail Convertible features a completely keyless ignition. Similar to the touring CVOs, the key fob arms the system when the rider is more than 6' from the motorcycle, but the Convertible’s steering head must still be manually locked via Harley’s ubiquitous barrel key.

Harley engineers also increased the capacity of the Convertible’s leather-covered saddlebags, which are also lockable, and the styling of the bags has been enhanced with the addition of alligator-style inserts that match those found on the seat and on the backrest. Other styling changes include a chromed, welded “mini-ape” handlebar that is internally wired for a sleeker appearance.

Three color combos are available: Scarlet Red Pearl/Dark Slate Pearl with Metal Grind Graphics; Midnight Sky/Candy Cobalt with Blue Ice Graphics; and Maple Metallic/Roman Gold with Burnished Copper Graphics. The frame, swingarm, oil tank and frame inserts are all color-matched.