🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

FLHR Road King

Year:

2005

Model Code:

FLHR

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The FLHR Road King is a flagship touring motorcycle, known for its classic styling, comfortable ride, and extensive touring capabilities. It appeals to riders who value tradition, comfort, and the iconic Harley-Davidson experience.

Competitors:

Directly competes with other large-displacement V-twin cruiser and touring motorcycles from brands like Indian, Victory (discontinued but relevant for era), and potentially some high-end Japanese cruisers focused on touring comfort.

Features:

Detachable windshield, classic styling with chrome accents, comfortable seating for rider and passenger, spacious saddlebags for luggage, a large-displacement V-twin engine providing ample torque for cruising and touring.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

All repairs, servicing, troubleshooting, diagnostics, and component overhauls.

Specific Systems:

Engine, drivetrain, electrical system, chassis, suspension, brakes, fuel system, exhaust system, bodywork.

Estimated Pages:

500+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital File (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Cylinder head, cylinders, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, camshafts, valve train, timing procedures, oil pump, lubrication system.

Fuel System:

Carburetor (CV type typically), fuel lines, fuel filter, fuel tank, fuel pump (if applicable), ignition system.

Drivetrain:

Clutch operation and adjustment, primary drive, transmission (gearbox internal components, shifting mechanisms), final drive (belt drive system, tensioner, sprockets).

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), ignition system (coils, ignition module), starting system (starter motor, solenoid), lighting (headlight, taillight, turn signals), instrumentation, wiring harnesses, diagnostic connectors.

Chassis And Suspension:

Frame inspection and repair, front fork (disassembly, seal replacement, oil levels), rear shock absorbers, swingarm, bearings (steering head, wheel, swingarm).

Braking System:

Front and rear brake calipers, master cylinders, brake lines, brake pads, rotors, hydraulic fluid, bleeding procedures.

Bodywork:

Fenders, fuel tank mounting, seat, saddlebags (mounting, latches), windshield, fairing (if equipped), chrome trim.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, air filter cleaning/replacement, chain/belt adjustment, tire pressure checks, brake pad wear inspection.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostics for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation (if applicable), electrical circuit testing.

Repair And Rebuild:

Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, and reassembly for all major systems.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical schematics illustrating component connections, wire colors, and circuit functions.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Image Clarity:

High-resolution images, diagrams, and schematics suitable for printing.

Digital Access:

Instant download, accessible on multiple devices.

Digital Media:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, V-twin, Evolution (often referred to as 'Evo' engine)

Displacement:

1450cc (88 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

3.50 in x 4.42 in (88.9 mm x 112.3 mm)

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1 (typical for 2005 models)

Ignition System:

Distributorless electronic ignition with single fire spark

Horsepower:

Approx. 65-70 HP (at crankshaft, estimated)

Torque:

Approx. 75-80 ft-lbs (at crankshaft, estimated)

Fuel Delivery:

Carbureted (Harley-Davidson 40mm constant velocity carburetor)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed constant mesh manual transmission

Options:

N/A (Standard 5-speed for FLHR)

Primary Drive:

Primary chain drive to clutch, enclosed in oil bath

Final Drive:

Belt drive

Clutch Type:

Wet, multi-plate

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 93.7 inches (2380 mm)

Width:

Approx. 37.0 inches (940 mm)

Height:

Approx. 53.0 inches (1346 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 63.5 inches (1613 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 5.1 inches (130 mm)

Saddlebag Capacity:

Approx. 2.2 cu ft (62.3 liters) total

Dry Weight:

Approx. 716 lbs (325 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 1260 lbs (572 kg)

Fuel Capacity:

5.0 US gallons (19.0 liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

Motorcycles are generally not rated by organizations like NHTSA or IIHS. Safety is primarily determined by rider skill and adherence to safe riding practices.

Braking:

Dual front disc brakes, single rear disc brake. Fairly robust braking system for its class.

Lighting:

Halogen headlight, LED taillight and stoplight, standard incandescent turn signals.

Chassis Design:

Sturdy steel frame provides a stable platform. Low center of gravity contributes to rider confidence.

Tire Design:

Bias-ply tires commonly fitted, offering stability and comfort, though tubeless radials were becoming more prevalent in higher-performance bikes.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Optional AM/FM radio and cassette player integrated into the dashboard, often with handlebar-mounted controls.

Speakers:

Fairing-mounted or handlebar-mounted speakers (if equipped with audio system).

Cruise Control:

Not typically standard on the FLHR Road King in 2005; often an aftermarket or dealer-installed option.

Charging Port:

May include a cigarette lighter-style power outlet for charging accessories or devices (often optional).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 2,500 - 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for precise intervals based on usage).

Primary Chain Tensioner Check:

Inspect at every 2,500 miles. Automatic tensioner requires periodic inspection for wear.

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 10,000 - 15,000 miles (typical).

Belt Drive Tension:

Check and adjust belt tension every 5,000 miles.

Engine Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson's recommended V-Twin specific oil or equivalent SAE 20W-50 motorcycle oil (e.g., SYN3, Mobil 1 V-Twin).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.0 US quarts (3.8 liters) with filter change.

Primary Chain Case Oil:

Harley-Davidson Primary Chain Lubricant or equivalent SAE 80W-90 gear oil.

Primary Chain Case Oil Capacity:

Approx. 1.0 US quart (0.95 liters).

Transmission Oil:

Harley-Davidson Transmission Lubricant or equivalent SAE 80W-90 gear oil (note: some newer bikes use lighter fluids, but for 2005, 80W-90 is standard).

Transmission Oil Capacity:

Approx. 24 US fl oz (0.71 liters).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 brake fluid.

Primary Tensioner Wear:

The automatic primary chain tensioner on Evolution engines can wear out, leading to noise and potential chain damage. Replacement with an updated or manual tensioner is common.

Carburetor Tuning:

CV carburetor can require periodic adjustments or cleaning for optimal performance, especially with age or modifications.

Cam Chain Tensioners:

While less critical on the Evo engine compared to later Twin Cams, inspection of cam chain tensioners is prudent during major engine work.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, has a long and storied history in motorcycle manufacturing, particularly known for its V-twin engines and distinct cruiser/touring style.

Evolution Of Road King:

The Road King lineage began in the early 1990s, blending the classic styling of older Harley-Davidson models with modern touring capabilities. The 2005 model is part of the evolution of the FLHT/FLT platform.

Production Location:

York, Pennsylvania, USA and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.

Model Significance:

The 2005 FLHR Road King represents a period where Harley-Davidson was solidifying its market dominance with refined versions of its iconic V-twin platform, appealing to a broad range of riders.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Reputation:

Consistently recognized for its classic styling, comfort, and the iconic Harley-Davidson riding experience. The Road King has a loyal following and is often considered a benchmark for large-displacement cruisers.

Customer Satisfaction:

Generally high customer satisfaction due to its touring capabilities and brand loyalty, though maintenance and potential repairs are factors.