Market Segment:
Full-Size Touring Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Touring riders, long-distance cruisers, enthusiasts seeking classic styling with modern performance
Key Competitors:
Indian Chief, Honda Gold Wing, Kawasaki Vulcan Vaquero, Yamaha Stratoliner
Differentiation:
Iconic Harley-Davidson styling, Twin Cam engine performance, extensive customization options
Styling:
Classic cruiser aesthetics, chrome accents, wide handlebars, rider comfort
Comfort:
Comfortable seating, floorboards, ample legroom, touring-oriented ergonomics
Performance:
Torquey Twin Cam 103 engine, capable for highway cruising and spirited riding
Utility:
Large capacity saddlebags for luggage storage
Engine:
Twin Cam 103 (1690cc) V-Twin Engine Service, Assembly, Disassembly, Rebuild
Fuel System:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI), Fuel Tank, Fuel Pump, Fuel Filter
Ignition System:
Ignition Module, Spark Plugs, Ignition Coils, Sensors
Transmission:
6-Speed Cruise Drive Transmission Service, Clutch, Primary Drive, Final Drive Belt
Chassis And Frame:
Frame, Swingarm, Front and Rear Suspension, Steering Head Bearings
Braking System:
Front and Rear Disc Brakes, Calipers, Master Cylinders, Brake Lines, ABS (if equipped)
Electrical System:
Battery, Charging System (Alternator/Stator, Regulator), Lighting System, Starting System (Starter Motor, Solenoid), Fuses, Relays
Bodywork And Trim:
Fairing, Saddlebags, Fenders, Seat, Handlebars, Controls, Chrome Trim
Instruments And Indicators:
Speedometer, Tachometer, Gauges, Warning Lights, Fault Codes
Exhaust System:
Exhaust Pipes, Mufflers, Heat Shields
Cooling System:
Air Cooling System, Oil Cooler (if equipped)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil Change, Filter Replacement, Spark Plug Service, Air Filter Cleaning/Replacement, Drive Belt Inspection/Tensioning
Engine Repair:
Top End Rebuild (Cylinder Heads, Piston Rings), Bottom End Rebuild (Crankshaft, Connecting Rods), Camshaft Replacement, Valve Adjustment
Transmission Repair:
Clutch Adjustment, Clutch Pack Replacement, Gear Set Service, Bearing Replacement
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting electrical faults, Wiring harness repair, Component testing
Brake Service:
Brake Pad Replacement, Brake Fluid Flush, Bleeding Procedure, Caliper Overhaul
Suspension Service:
Fork Seal Replacement, Shock Absorber Service/Replacement, Fork Oil Change
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete and detailed electrical schematics for all systems
Depth Level:
Comprehensive - suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Includes diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and procedures for identifying and resolving issues
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed instructions for complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Twin Cam 103, Pushrod V-Twin
Displacement:
103 cu in (1690 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.875 in x 4.380 in (98.4 mm x 111.3 mm)
Valve Train:
Overhead valves (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder, Pushrod actuated
Horsepower:
Approx. 75-85 HP (estimate, actual figures vary by dyno and specific tune)
Torque:
Approx. 96-100 lb-ft @ 3500 RPM (estimate)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 Synthetic (or equivalent SAE 20W-50)
Oil Capacity:
3.7 US qt (3.5 L) with filter change
Crash Test Ratings:
Motorcycles are not typically subjected to standardized automotive crash testing like cars. Safety is primarily assessed through design, handling, braking, and rider aids.
Braking:
Dual front disc brakes, Single rear disc brake, Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, Integrated front and rear turn signals/taillights
Frame Construction:
Steel frame and swingarm for structural integrity
Ergonomics:
Designed for rider stability and control
First Service:
1000 miles (1600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first
Subsequent Service:
Every 5000 miles (8000 km) or 12 months
Engine Oil Change:
Recommended every 5000 miles (8000 km) or 12 months, or more frequently under severe use
Drive Belt Tension:
Check at every service, adjust as needed
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 20W-50 Harley-Davidson SYN3 or equivalent
Transmission Fluid Spec:
Harley-Davidson Transmission Lubricant (or equivalent SAE 80W-90 hypoid gear oil)
Primary Chain Case Fluid Spec:
Harley-Davidson Primary Chaincase Lubricant (or equivalent Formula+', SAE 50)
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 (for models with ABS, check manual for specific fluid type)
Fork Oil Spec:
Harley-Davidson Factory Fork Oil (e.g., 10W, check manual for specific viscosity based on suspension type)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, front fork seals, wheel bearings, drive belt, brake pads
Engine Performance Tuning:
Many owners opt for performance upgrades (e.g., cams, exhaust, tuning modules) which can affect reliability if not done properly.
Electrical Gremlins:
Can occur with age; proper maintenance of connections and charging system is crucial.
Brand Legacy:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer renowned for its V-twin engines, cruiser styling, and rich motorsports heritage.
Road King Lineage:
The Road King model line has been a cornerstone of Harley-Davidson's touring segment since the 1990s, evolving from earlier touring platforms and consistently offering a blend of classic style and modern amenities.
Classic Trim:
The 'Classic' designation typically adds historical styling cues, such as wire-spoke wheels, whitewall tires, and full fender styling, distinguishing it from the standard Road King.
Twin Cam Era:
The 2012 model falls within the era of Harley-Davidson's Twin Cam engine platform, which began in 1999, offering increased displacement and performance over the previous Evolution engine.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (primarily York, Pennsylvania; Milwaukee, Wisconsin)
