Positioning:
The 2006 Harley-Davidson Touring models represent a pinnacle of American motorcycle engineering, designed for long-distance comfort and performance. This manual is essential for owners and technicians seeking to maintain, diagnose, and repair these iconic machines.
Analysis:
In 2006, Harley-Davidson's Touring line competed against other American V-twin manufacturers and premium European touring bikes, offering a unique blend of V-twin rumble, rider comfort, and a vast customization ecosystem.
Features:
The 2006 models are characterized by their robust Twin Cam engines, integrated fairings, ample luggage capacity, and plush seating, making them ideal for cross-country journeys. Key innovations for this era included refinements to the fuel injection systems and chassis for improved handling.
Powertrain:
Engine (Evolution, Twin Cam 88/96), Fuel System (Carburetor/EFI), Ignition System, Exhaust System, Transmission (5-speed Cruise Drive), Clutch
Chassis:
Frame, Front Suspension (Fork), Rear Suspension (Shock Absorbers), Wheels, Tires, Brakes (Front/Rear Disc), Steering
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting System, Instruments, Gauges, Switches, Wiring Diagrams, ECM/ECU, Radio/Audio Systems, Cruise Control
Bodywork:
Fairings, Tour-Pak, Saddlebags, Fenders, Seat, Fuel Tank, Controls, Trim
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance Intervals, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication, Brake Service, Tire Rotation, Belt Inspection/Adjustment
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Fork Seal Replacement, Brake Caliper Service, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Body Panel Repair and Replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures, Fault Code Interpretation, Common Problems and Solutions, Electrical System Troubleshooting using Wiring Diagrams
Depth:
Detailed step-by-step instructions, torque specifications, special tool requirements, diagnostic charts, and exploded views for all major components.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Twin Cam 88B or Twin Cam 96 (depending on specific model variant)
Displacement:
1449cc (88 cubic inches) or 1584cc (96 cubic inches)
Torque Twin Cam 88:
Approx. 85-88 ft-lbs @ 3500 RPM
Torque Twin Cam 96:
Approx. 92-96 ft-lbs @ 3500 RPM
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) or Keihin CV Carburetor (depending on model and emissions standards)
Cooling System:
Air Cooling
Bore Stroke 88:
3.75 in x 4.00 in (95.25 mm x 101.6 mm)
Bore Stroke 96:
3.75 in x 4.38 in (95.25 mm x 111.25 mm)
Compression Ratio 88:
8.8:1
Compression Ratio 96:
8.9:1
Overall Length Road King:
Approx. 93.9 inches (2385 mm)
Wheelbase Road King:
Approx. 63.4 inches (1610 mm)
Seat Height Laden Road King:
Approx. 28.2 inches (716 mm)
Dry Weight Road King:
Approx. 717 lbs (325 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 1260 lbs (572 kg)
Saddlebag Capacity:
Integrated hard saddlebags, approx. 2.2 cu ft total
Tour Pak Capacity:
Optional, adds significant storage
Crash Test Ratings:
Motorcycles are not typically subjected to the same standardized crash testing as passenger cars. Safety relies heavily on rider skill and adherence to maintenance schedules.
Braking System:
Dual 32mm, 4-piston, fixed front caliper with dual 292mm discs; Single 32mm, 4-piston, floating rear caliper with 292mm disc.
ABS:
Optional on some 2006 Touring models (Anti-lock Braking System)
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, dual taillights/brake lights, turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Mild steel, tubular frame; rectangular backbone and downtube.
Audio System:
Factory installed AM/FM/WB radio with cassette or CD player (model dependent), often with fairing-mounted speakers and handlebar controls.
Cruise Control:
Electronic cruise control was a common feature on many 2006 Touring models.
ABS:
Available on select models for enhanced braking stability.
Communications:
Some models featured CB radio and intercom systems for rider-passenger or rider-rider communication.
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (check manual for specific oil type and capacity).
Primary Chain Tensioner:
Inspect/replace at 20,000-30,000 miles (Hydraulic tensioner upgrade recommended for earlier models with cam tensioner issues).
Spark Plugs:
Inspect every 10,000 miles, replace as needed (Harley-Davidson recommends HD part numbers like 32304-04 for Twin Cam 96).
Air Filter:
Inspect every 10,000 miles, clean or replace as needed.
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson recommended SAE 20W-50 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil (e.g., Harley-Davidson SYN3 or equivalent).
Primary Case Oil:
Formula + Transmission Lubricant (H-D Part # 99871-04) or equivalent.
Transmission Oil:
Formula + Transmission Lubricant (H-D Part # 99871-04) or equivalent.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (check manual for specific recommendations regarding any ABS system).
Cam Tensioner:
Early Twin Cam engines (prior to ~2007) used plastic cam chain tensioners that could wear prematurely, leading to potential engine damage. This manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures, and often recommends the upgrade to the hydraulic tensioner.
Rear Cylinder Overheating:
Common on air-cooled V-twins, especially in hot weather or stop-and-go traffic. The manual provides advice on proper fuel mixture and potential tuning adjustments.
Fuel Injector O-Rings:
Potential for vacuum leaks if O-rings degrade over time.
Heritage:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, boasts a rich heritage of building V-twin motorcycles, synonymous with American freedom and the open road. The Touring platform has evolved over decades to become the benchmark for long-distance motorcycle touring.
Touring Line:
The Touring line has roots in models like the Duo-Glide and Electra Glide. The introduction of the Evolution engine in the late 1980s and the subsequent Twin Cam engine in 1999 marked significant advancements in performance and reliability. The 2006 models are part of the early Twin Cam era with ongoing refinements.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (primarily Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and York, Pennsylvania)
Brand Recognition:
Harley-Davidson is consistently ranked among the most valuable motorcycle brands globally, celebrated for its heritage, rider community, and distinctive product offerings.
Customer Satisfaction:
Generally high customer satisfaction for build quality and riding experience, though maintenance costs can be a factor.
Emissions:
All 2006 models meet or exceed EPA and California Air Resources Board (CARB) emissions standards for their respective sales regions.
