🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

FLHR Road King

Model Code:

FLHR

Production Years Covered:

1995, 1996, 1997, 1998

Manual Product Code:

Not specified, but implies a comprehensive factory service manual.

👋 Introduction

Model Segment:

Full-size cruiser motorcycle, characterized by comfortable touring capability and classic styling.

Target Audience:

Riders seeking a comfortable, reliable, and iconic American motorcycle for long-distance touring and everyday riding.

Key Competitors:

Models from other American manufacturers like Indian Motorcycles, as well as some Japanese manufacturers offering large-displacement cruisers with touring features.

Distinctive Features:

Detachable windscreen, large comfortable seat, ample luggage capacity (saddlebags), robust V-twin engine, classic styling, highway cruising comfort.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides essential, factory-accurate information for maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing the FLHR Road King, empowering owners and technicians to keep the motorcycle in optimal condition.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Harley-Davidson FLHR Road King Motorcycles

Secondary Coverage:

Potentially related FL models from the same era may share some common components and procedures.

Estimated Page Count:

Typically 500-800+ pages for a full factory service manual of this era and complexity.

Type:

Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

V-Twin Evolution Engine, including top-end (cylinder heads, valves, camshafts), bottom-end (crankshaft, connecting rods, pistons), oiling system, lubrication, cooling (air-cooled).

Fuel System:

Carburetion (likely Keihin CV carburetor), fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel pump (if applicable for the era's models).

Ignition System:

Electronic ignition system, ignition coil, spark plugs, timing.

Transmission:

5-speed Cruise Drive transmission, clutch operation, gear shifting mechanisms, primary drive system (chain or belt), secondary drive (belt drive), transmission oil.

Brakes:

Hydraulic disc brakes (front and rear), brake calipers, master cylinders, brake lines, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (stator, voltage regulator/rectifier), starter motor, lighting (headlight, taillight, turn signals, brake lights), wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, switches, diagnostic codes.

Suspension:

Front telescopic forks (likely Showa or Marzocchi components), rear shock absorbers, fork oil specifications, rear suspension adjustments.

Steering And Handling:

Handlebars, steering bearings, front fork alignment, wheel alignment.

Frame And Bodywork:

Frame inspection, body panel removal and installation, fenders, fuel tank mounting, seat assembly, fairing (if applicable), saddlebags.

Wheels And Tires:

Wheel bearing maintenance, tire inspection and replacement, tire pressures, wheel balancing.

Accessories And Comfort:

Windshield mounting, passenger comfort features, luggage systems.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacement, spark plug checks, chain/belt adjustment, brake fluid checks, tire pressure checks.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common issues related to engine, electrical, fuel, and drivetrain systems.

Engine Overhaul:

Detailed instructions for engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly, including piston ring replacement, valve adjustments, and bearing checks.

Transmission Repair:

Clutch adjustment and replacement, transmission gear inspection and replacement, bearing servicing.

Brake System Service:

Brake pad replacement, caliper service, master cylinder overhaul, line replacement, bleeding procedures.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring harness troubleshooting, component testing (stator, regulator, ignition module), battery and charging system analysis.

Suspension Service:

Fork seal replacement, fork oil changes, rear shock absorber servicing.

Carburetor Rebuild:

Disassembly, cleaning, adjustment, and reassembly of the CV carburetor.

Timing Adjustment:

Procedures for setting engine ignition timing.

Bodywork Repair:

Guidance on removing and refitting body panels, fenders, and other cosmetic components.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive factory-level technical detail, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

In-depth diagnostic trees and troubleshooting flowcharts for identifying root causes of mechanical and electrical faults.

Rebuild Procedures:

Detailed instructions and specifications for complete engine and transmission rebuilds.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage instructions for specialized Harley-Davidson tools required for specific repair procedures.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners and components.

Clearances And Tolerances:

Specifications for critical engine and transmission clearances (e.g., piston-to-cylinder wall, bearing clearances, valve lash).

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable text, allowing for quick access to specific information.

Print Readability:

Designed for clear printing, with legible text and diagrams.

Physical Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Physical Paper:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, Evolution V-twin

Displacement:

1337.8 cc (81.5 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

3.49 in x 4.25 in (88.9 mm x 107.95 mm)

Compression Ratio:

Typically 8.2:1 to 8.3:1 for Evolution engines of this era.

Horsepower:

Approximately 60-65 HP (at crankshaft, depending on specific tuning and year).

Torque:

Approximately 70-76 ft-lbs (at crankshaft, depending on specific tuning and year).

Carburetor Type:

Keihin CV (Constant Velocity) 40 mm carburetor.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, minimum octane rating of 91 (recommended).

Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4 quarts (3.8 liters) with filter change.

Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson Syn3 or a premium multi-viscosity motorcycle oil meeting Harley-Davidson specifications (e.g., 20W50).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed constant mesh, manual transmission

Optional Transmission:

N/A for this model; 5-speed was standard.

Primary Drive:

Hyphoid gear primary drive within a common oil bath.

Secondary Drive:

Belt drive (45 mm wide, 132 teeth)

Transmission Fluid:

Harley-Davidson transmission fluid or compatible 80W-90 gear oil.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 63.5 inches (1613 mm)

Length:

Approximately 93.1 inches (2365 mm)

Seat Height:

Approximately 28.5 inches (724 mm) (unladen)

Ground Clearance:

Approximately 5.2 inches (132 mm)

Dry Weight:

Approximately 665 lbs (302 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approximately 1050 lbs (476 kg)

Saddlebag Capacity:

Approximately 1.5 cubic feet per saddlebag (total 3.0 cubic feet).

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

Motorcycles are not subject to the same formal crash ratings as automobiles. Focus is on rider control and vehicle stability.

Braking System:

Dual 11.5-inch disc brakes (front), Single 11.5-inch disc brake (rear).

Tires:

Tubeless tires for reduced blowout risk. Front: 130/90-16, Rear: 150/80B16.

Lighting:

Halogen headlight, taillight, brake lights, and amber turn signals for enhanced visibility.

Frame Construction:

Steel frame for robust structure and handling stability.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic by modern standards. Typically features an analog speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, and oil pressure gauge. Some models might have an optional 4-speaker stereo system with cassette player.

Driver Assistance Features:

None. Focus is on rider control and mechanical operation.

Connectivity Options:

N/A. No Bluetooth, USB, or smart device integration.

🔧 Maintenance

Initial Service:

Typically 1,000 miles (1600 km) for initial break-in service (oil change, filter change, primary check).

Routine Oil Change:

Every 2,500 - 5,000 miles (4000 - 8000 km) or annually, depending on usage and oil type. Consult manual for specifics.

Belt Tension Check:

Check every 2,500 miles (4000 km).

Brake Fluid Change:

Every 1-2 years or as recommended by mileage.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Recommended at 10,000 - 15,000 miles (16,000 - 24,000 km).

Engine Oil:

Harley-Davidson Syn3 or equivalent 20W50 motorcycle oil.

Transmission Fluid:

Harley-Davidson transmission fluid or SAE 80W-90 gear oil.

Primary Chaincase Lubricant:

Harley-Davidson primary lubricant or equivalent SAE 90 gear oil.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.

Evolution Engine Considerations:

Potential for oil leaks from gaskets/seals over time, cam bearing wear (especially with early models), carburetor tuning adjustments needed for optimal performance.

Electrical System Considerations:

Voltage regulator failures, stator issues, and battery charging system problems can occur with age and mileage. Wiring harness integrity should be checked.

Belt Drive Wear:

The drive belt can wear and require adjustment or replacement; improper tension can lead to premature wear.

Suspension Wear:

Fork seals can leak, and rear shock absorbers may lose damping effectiveness over time.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Identity:

Harley-Davidson, an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer with a legacy dating back to 1903, known for its V-twin engines, distinctive sound, and rider lifestyle.

Road King Introduction:

The Road King model was introduced in 1994 as a successor to the Electra Glide Sport, offering a more stripped-down touring experience.

1995-1998 Era:

This period saw the continued refinement of the Evolution engine and the FLHR platform, solidifying its position as a premier touring cruiser.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily York, Pennsylvania, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Recognition:

The FLHR Road King is consistently praised for its comfort, classic styling, and touring capability, earning it a loyal following and numerous positive reviews in motorcycle publications throughout its production run.

Owner Satisfaction:

Generally high owner satisfaction for reliability and the overall riding experience, particularly for those who appreciate traditional Harley-Davidson attributes.

Manufacturing Standards:

Manufactured to Harley-Davidson's internal quality and safety standards.