Market Segment:
Cruiser / Touring Motorcycle
Competitors 1998:
Indian Chief, Kawasaki Vulcan 1500, Yamaha Road Star.
Road King Distinction:
Classic styling, comfortable touring capabilities, removable windshield, large saddlebags.
Primary User:
Harley-Davidson FLHRC I Road King owners and independent mechanics performing maintenance and repairs.
Manual Benefit:
Provides factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures, empowering owners to maintain their motorcycles effectively.
Engine:
Engine disassembly, assembly, inspection, troubleshooting, and repair of Twin Cam 88 engine components (carburetor, ignition, cooling, lubrication).
Transmission:
Service and repair of the 5-speed constant mesh transmission, clutch system, and primary drive.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Keihin CV) tuning, disassembly, cleaning, and troubleshooting; fuel tank and lines.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, ignition system, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), lighting, starter, battery, instrumentation, and accessories.
Chassis And Suspension:
Frame, forks (fork oil change, seal replacement), rear shock absorbers, swingarm, and bearings.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (hydraulic), caliper service, brake pad replacement, fluid flushing, and master cylinder repair.
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel bearing service, tire replacement, balancing, and spoke adjustment (if applicable to specific wheel type).
Bodywork And Trim:
Fender removal/installation, fairing components, saddlebags, windshield, and seat service.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, chain adjustment (if applicable, though Road Kings are typically belt-driven), brake fluid changes, and lubrication points.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common electrical and mechanical faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair, including internal engine work, transmission overhauls, and brake system rebuilds.
Adjustments:
Carburetor idle and mixture adjustments, clutch cable adjustment, brake lever adjustments.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes diagnostic charts and specifications.
Print Quality Recommendation:
High-resolution, suitable for printing clear diagrams and text.
Binding Type For Printed Version:
Coil or comb binding recommended for lay-flat usability in a workshop environment.
Paper Type Recommendation:
Durable, laminated pages recommended for workshop conditions.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Evolution Big-Twin (though 1998 models transitioned to Twin Cam 88 in late production, this manual likely covers the Evolution primarily for the FLHRC I designation from earlier years or earlier production of 1998. Clarification needed if Twin Cam is present).
Engine Displacement:
1337 cc (82 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.50 in x 4.25 in (88.9 mm x 108 mm)
Horsepower Approx:
60-65 HP @ 5000 RPM (Estimate)
Torque Approx:
75-80 lb-ft @ 3200 RPM (Estimate)
Carburetor Model:
Keihin CV (Constant Velocity)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane recommended.
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition
Oil Capacity W Filter:
Approx. 3.5 US quarts (3.3 Liters)
Oil Type Specification:
Harley-Davidson 20W-50 or equivalent API SG or higher.
Length:
Approx. 93.1 inches (2365 mm)
Width:
Approx. 36.6 inches (930 mm)
Height:
Approx. 53.5 inches (1359 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 689 lbs (312 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 1160 lbs (526 kg)
Front Tire Size:
130/90-16
Rear Tire Size:
140/90-15
Fuel Tank Capacity:
5.0 US gallons (18.9 Liters)
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety testing standards differ significantly from automobiles).
Braking System:
Dual disc front brakes, single disc rear brake with hydraulic actuation.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, front and rear turn signals, taillight, brake light.
Frame Construction:
Steel tube frame for rigidity and stability.
Infotainment System:
Basic instrumentation: speedometer, tachometer (if equipped), fuel gauge, oil pressure light, engine diagnostic light.
Driver Assistance Features:
N/A (No electronic rider aids like ABS or traction control typically found on this model year).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 2,500 miles or 4 months (whichever comes first).
Primary Chain Tensioner Check:
Inspect and adjust every 5,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000 miles.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 12 months or 10,000 miles.
Fork Oil Change:
Recommended every 20,000 miles or as needed based on performance.
Front Fork Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Suspension Oil, Type 'E' (or equivalent 10W fork oil).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid.
Cam Chain Tensioner Wear:
Evolution Big-Twins can experience wear on the cam chain tensioner shoes, leading to noise and potential engine damage if not addressed. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Carburetor Tuning:
Keihin CV carburetors may require periodic fine-tuning of idle speed and mixture for optimal performance and emissions.
Regulator Rectifier Failure:
Early models could be prone to regulator/rectifier failures, impacting charging system performance. The manual covers testing and replacement.
Brand Identity:
Iconic American motorcycle manufacturer known for V-twin engines and cruiser styling.
Road King Introduction:
The Road King lineage began in the early 1990s, offering a classic, 'bare bones' touring experience.
1998 Road King Updates:
Refinements to the Evolution engine, potential introduction of Twin Cam 88 in late production runs for 1998 models, chassis improvements.
Manufacturing Location:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA (primarily)
Industry Recognition:
Harley-Davidson motorcycles of this era are widely recognized for their classic styling, V-twin rumble, and enduring appeal in the cruiser market.
Consumer Reviews:
Consistently praised for ride comfort, torque, and iconic status.
Emissions Standards:
Compliant with EPA emissions standards for the year 1998.
