Segment:
Full-size Touring Cruiser
Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, hobbyists, and professional technicians.
Key Competitors:
Indian Chief, Honda Gold Wing (though different style), Victory Cross Country
Model Highlights:
Classic styling with modern touring capabilities, comfortable ergonomics, strong V-twin performance, large luggage capacity.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to maintain their investment, troubleshoot issues efficiently, and perform repairs with confidence, saving time and money.
Primary Coverage:
Mechanical, Electrical, Bodywork, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Repair
Specific Systems:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Chassis, Suspension, Brakes, Fuel System, Electrical System, Lighting, Ignition, Security, Instruments, Controls, Accessories
Type:
Service Manual / Repair Manual
Engine Systems:
Twin Cam 103 Engine, Engine Disassembly & Assembly, Lubrication, Cooling, Ignition, Fuel Injection (EFI), Exhaust System
Transmission Drivetrain:
Cruise Drive 6-Speed Transmission, Clutch, Primary Drive, Final Drive Belt, Gearbox Overhaul
Chassis Suspension Brakes:
Frame, Front Suspension (Gaucho Forks), Rear Suspension (Dual Shocks), Wheel Bearings, Brake System (Front & Rear Disc), ABS (if equipped), Master Cylinders, Calipers
Electrical Systems:
Wiring Diagrams, Battery, Charging System (Alternator, Regulator), Starting System (Starter Motor), Lighting (Headlight, Taillight, Turn Signals), Ignition System, Instrument Cluster, Security System (HISS), Audio System, Accessory Wiring
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacement, Belt Tensioning, Spark Plug Replacement, Brake Fluid Flush, Clutch Adjustment, Tire Pressure, Chain/Belt Inspection
Repair Overhaul:
Engine Rebuild, Transmission Repair, Fork Seal Replacement, Brake Pad Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair, Body Panel Removal and Installation, Seat Replacement, Fairing Maintenance
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Flowcharts, Common Problem Identification and Solutions, Fault Code Interpretation (if applicable)
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and electrical schematic interpretation.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Twin Cam 103™
Displacement:
1690 cc (103 cu. in.)
Bore X Stroke:
3.875 in. x 4.38 in. (98.4 mm x 111.3 mm)
Horsepower:
Approx. 77 HP @ 5000 RPM (Estimated, varies with exhaust/tuning)
Torque:
Approx. 101 ft-lbs @ 3500 RPM (Estimated, varies with exhaust/tuning)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline, 91 Octane (Recommended)
Type:
Cruise Drive 6-Speed Manual
Primary Drive:
Contained in primary chain case, 1.35:1 ratio
Final Drive:
Carbon-belt, 3.15:1 ratio
Clutch:
Hydraulically actuated, 9-plate, wet clutch
Lubricant:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ (Primary Oil) / SYN3 (Engine Oil) / Gear Oil
Crash Testing:
Motorcycle safety is primarily based on rider skill and road conditions; specific governmental crash ratings are not typically provided for motorcycles.
Brakes:
Dual-Plex caliper front, Single-Plex caliper rear. Linked braking system available on some configurations. Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight and turn signals for increased visibility.
Chassis Design:
Sturdy steel frame, low center of gravity for stability.
Security:
Factory-installed Smart Security System with Immobilizer (standard on most models).
Audio System:
Factory-installed premium audio system with AM/FM radio and CB/Intercom capability (optional on some trims). Features might include auxiliary input.
Instrumentation:
Analog speedometer and tachometer, digital odometer, fuel gauge, voltmeter, and diagnostic indicator lights.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on certain models/trims for enhanced braking control.
Diagnostic Ports:
Diagnostic connectors for interfacing with electronic diagnostic tools (covered in manual).
Cruise Control:
Electronic cruise control standard on the Road King Classic model.
First Service:
1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Subsequent Services:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months. Specific items like transmission and primary fluid checks may be more frequent.
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 (SAE 20W-50) or equivalent synthetic motorcycle oil meeting Harley-Davidson H-D 360 Specification.
Primary Chain Case Lubricant:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ Transmission & Primary Chaincase Lubricant or equivalent.
Transmission Lubricant:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ Transmission & Primary Chaincase Lubricant or equivalent.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4, Harley-Davidson Heavy Duty.” (Refer to manual for specific type for ABS models)
Fork Oil:
Refer to manual for specific weight and type (e.g., Harley-Davidson Suspension Fluid Type 20W).
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates (with heavy use), brake pads, tires, wheel bearings, front fork seals, exhaust gaskets, battery.
Potential Electrical Gremlins:
While generally robust, specific wiring harness issues or component failures (e.g., regulator, ignition module) can occur and are detailed in the manual's troubleshooting section.
Engine Performance Tips:
Proper maintenance of the fuel system, air filter, and exhaust are critical for maintaining the Twin Cam 103's performance.
Foundation:
Founded in 1903, Harley-Davidson is one of the oldest motorcycle manufacturers in the world, synonymous with American V-twin culture.
Road King Lineage:
The Road King line dates back to the FL style motorcycles of the 1940s, evolving into a modern cruiser with classic styling. The 'Classic' designation typically refers to features like the whitewall tires, chrome accents, and leather-look saddlebags.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (Various Harley-Davidson facilities)
Model Acclaim:
The Harley-Davidson Road King Classic consistently receives praise for its blend of iconic styling and comfortable touring capabilities, making it a favorite among riders who appreciate classic aesthetics.
Owner Satisfaction:
Harley-Davidson motorcycles, particularly models like the Road King, often rank highly in owner satisfaction surveys for their build quality, performance, and brand loyalty.
