Market Position:
The Harley-Davidson FLHR Road King is positioned as a premium, classic touring motorcycle, emphasizing rider comfort, iconic styling, and the touring capability for long-distance journeys.
Competitors:
Competes with other large-displacement cruisers and touring motorcycles from brands like Indian Motorcycle, Victory (now defunct), and some European manufacturers offering similar touring capabilities.
Key Features:
Detachable windshield, large-capacity saddlebags, comfortable rider and passenger seating, classic styling cues, powerful V-twin engine, and a robust touring platform.
Engine System:
Twin Cam 103 V-Twin engine service, troubleshooting, overhaul, and diagnostics
Fuel System:
Fuel injection (EFI), fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel tank service, throttle body maintenance
Ignition System:
Spark plugs, ignition coils, crank position sensors, ignition module diagnostics
Transmission System:
6-speed Cruise Drive transmission service, clutch service, gear inspection, shift mechanism repair
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery service, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), starter motor, lighting, H-D Smart Security System
Brakes System:
Hydraulic brake system, front and rear brake calipers, master cylinders, brake lines, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics and service
Suspension System:
Front fork service (including telescopic fork), rear shock absorber replacement and adjustment, swingarm service
Wheel And Tire System:
Wheel bearing replacement, tire mounting and balancing, spoke wheel maintenance
Bodywork And Fittings:
Fairing removal and installation, fender service, saddlebag service, handlebar and control adjustments, seat mounting
Chassis And Frame:
Frame inspection, steering head bearing service, pivot point lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings
Preventative Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, brake fluid flushes, scheduled inspections
Engine Overhaul:
Piston and cylinder removal/installation, valve adjustments, camshaft service, crankshaft inspection
Transmission Rebuild:
Disassembly and reassembly of the 6-speed gearbox, bearing replacement, seal installation
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Component testing, circuit tracing using wiring diagrams, sensor diagnostics
Brake System Repair:
Caliper rebuilding, master cylinder replacement, brake line bleeding, ABS module diagnostics
Suspension Maintenance:
Fork seal replacement, oil changes, shock absorber adjustment and replacement
Fuel System Cleaning:
Fuel injector cleaning, throttle body synchronization, fuel line inspection
Bodywork Restoration:
Panel alignment, cosmetic repair guidance, component reassembly
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics and troubleshooting.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Twin Cam 103 V-Twin
Displacement:
1690 cc (103 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.875 in. x 4.38 in. (98.4 mm x 111.3 mm)
Horsepower:
Approx. 75 HP (varies with tuning and conditions)
Torque:
Approx. 97 ft-lbs @ 3500 RPM (varies with tuning and conditions)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.0 US quarts (3.8 liters) with filter change
Recommended Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Formula SYN3 (SAE 20W-50) or equivalent
Transmission Type:
6-speed Cruise Drive
Gear Ratios:
1st: 9.593, 2nd: 6.650, 3rd: 4.938, 4th: 3.820, 5th: 3.130, 6th: 2.630 (Typical values, consult manual for exact ratios)
Clutch Type:
Clutched, Nine-Plate, Wet
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula + (SAE 50) or SYN3
Primary Drive:
Plated, Uncountershaft, 34/46 ratio
Final Drive:
Carbon Belt, 32/66 ratio
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM/WB radio with CD player and CB/intercom capability (depending on specific trim/options). Often features speakers integrated into the fairing.
Display:
Analog gauges with integrated digital display for odometer, trip meter, gear indicator, and diagnostics.
Cruise Control:
Standard Electronic Cruise Control
Usb Ipod Integration:
Optional accessory integration for iPod and USB devices, typically via handlebar-mounted controls.
First Service:
1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months
Subsequent Service:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Harley-Davidson Primary Fluid or SYN3
Clutch Fluid:
DOT 4 (if hydraulic clutch)
Transmission Oil Capacity:
24 US oz. (0.71 Liters)
Primary Chain Case Oil Capacity:
2.8 US quarts (2.6 Liters)
Known Issues General:
While generally reliable, common minor issues can include regulator/rectifier failures, clutch lever adjustment, and occasional electronic glitches. The Twin Cam 103 is robust.
Oil Leaks:
Can occur from primary or transmission seals if not properly maintained or during high mileage.
ABS Maintenance:
ABS systems require periodic fluid flushes and can be sensitive to sensor contamination.
Brand Heritage:
Harley-Davidson boasts a long and rich heritage in motorcycle manufacturing, dating back to 1903, known for its iconic V-twin engines and distinct American cruiser styling.
Road King Evolution:
The Road King line, introduced in 1994, represents a modern interpretation of classic touring motorcycles, blending vintage aesthetics with contemporary technology. The 'King of the Highway' ethos is central to its design.
Manufacturing Location:
York, Pennsylvania, USA, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
Key Milestones 2012:
The 2012 model year saw the widespread adoption of the Twin Cam 103 engine across the touring line, offering increased torque and power for enhanced performance.
