Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, independent motorcycle mechanics.
Competitors:
Indian Motorcycles, other V-twin cruiser manufacturers. The Road King is positioned as a classic, comfortable touring cruiser.
Model Highlights:
Detachable windshield, classic styling, comfortable ergonomics for long-distance riding, ample luggage capacity.
Engine:
Twin Cam 103, Engine overhaul, tuning, fuel injection (EFI), ignition system, lubrication system, cooling system (if applicable), emissions controls.
Transmission:
6-speed Cruise Drive transmission, internal components, clutch, shift mechanism, maintenance, repair.
Chassis:
Frame, suspension (front forks, rear shock absorbers), steering, wheels, tires, braking system (front and rear brakes, ABS if equipped).
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition, starting system, charging system, battery, instruments, gauges, controls, security system, accessory circuits.
Bodywork:
Body panels, fairings, fenders, fuel tank, seat, luggage systems, maintenance, repair, cosmetic procedures.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, brake fluid changes, spark plug replacement, belt adjustments, inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, symptom analysis, common problems and solutions, electrical troubleshooting charts.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including disassembly, assembly, and adjustment.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair and maintenance procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, electrical diagnostics, and bodywork repairs.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Twin Cam 103 V-twin
Displacement:
1690 cc (103 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.875 in. x 4.380 in. (98.4 mm x 111.3 mm)
Horsepower:
Approx. 77 HP @ 5000 RPM (rated)
Torque:
Approx. 101 lb-ft @ 3500 RPM (rated)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium unleaded gasoline
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine V-Twin Synthetic Oil SAE 20W-50 or equivalent meeting Harley-Davidson P/N 94690-07.
Oil Capacity:
4.0 US qt (3.8 L) with filter change
Type:
6-speed Cruise Drive
Gear Ratios:
1st: 9.593, 2nd: 6.650, 3rd: 4.945, 4th: 3.797, 5th: 3.204, 6th: 2.790
Clutch Type:
Multi-plate, wet, hydraulic actuation
Final Drive:
Belt drive, 32x19
Transmission Fluid:
Harley-Davidson Transmission and Primary Chaincase Lubricant, SAE 85W-140 (P/N 94609-06) or equivalent.
Transmission Capacity:
24 US fl oz (0.7 L)
Safety Certification:
Meets applicable US EPA, DOT, and California regulations.
Brakes:
4-piston front and 2-piston rear calipers, dual-mounted 32 mm front rotors, single-mounted 292 mm rear rotor. Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight, front and rear turn signals.
Chassis Stability:
Steel frame, balanced weight distribution, large diameter front forks.
Security:
Factory-installed H-D Smart Security System with key fob.
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM/WB radio with CD player and CB/intercom support. Speakers integrated into fairing.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Gauges:
Analog speedometer and tachometer, fuel gauge, voltage meter, oil pressure gauge, and indicator lights integrated into the fairing dash.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Auxiliary Input:
Likely includes an auxiliary input for MP3 players or other audio devices.
Usb Port:
May be available as an accessory or integrated depending on specific package.
Initial Service:
1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Subsequent Service:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, for most routine checks. Engine oil and filter change at 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Inspect at 10,000 miles (16,000 km), replace as needed. Recommended replacement around 20,000-30,000 miles (32,000-48,000 km).
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson Genuine V-Twin Synthetic Oil SAE 20W-50 (P/N 94690-07).
Transmission Fluid:
Harley-Davidson Transmission and Primary Chaincase Lubricant SAE 85W-140 (P/N 94609-06).
Primary Chaincase Fluid:
Harley-Davidson Primary Chaincase Lubricant SAE 85W-140 (P/N 94609-06).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (for ABS and non-ABS systems, consult manual for specific recommendations).
Common Complaints:
Cam chain tensioner wear (especially on earlier Twin Cam models, though improved by 2011), primary drive issues, charging system component failures (stator, regulator), potential for oil leaks, some electrical gremlins can occur.
Maintenance Tips:
Regularly inspect cam chain tensioners for wear, especially if abnormal noises are heard from the primary side. Monitor battery health and charging system voltage. Ensure proper torque on critical fasteners. Keep intake air filter clean for optimal performance.
Manufacturer:
Harley-Davidson Motor Company, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.
Road King Introduction:
The Road King lineage dates back to the early 1940s with models like the E-Glide. The modern FLHR Road King concept emerged in the early 1990s, evolving from the FXR chassis and styled to evoke classic post-war touring motorcycles.
2011 Updates:
The 2011 model year saw the widespread adoption of the Twin Cam 103 engine across many Harley-Davidson touring models, offering increased displacement and torque over previous 96 cubic inch engines. Minor styling and feature refinements likely occurred.
Assembly Location:
York, Pennsylvania, USA and/or Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA (final assembly and engine manufacturing).
Industry Acclaim:
The Harley-Davidson Road King is consistently lauded for its blend of classic styling, touring comfort, and V-twin character. It frequently receives high marks in owner satisfaction surveys and motorcycle reviews for its iconic cruiser appeal.
Owner Satisfaction:
Generally high owner satisfaction, particularly for long-distance comfort and the authentic Harley-Davidson riding experience.
Epa Compliance:
Certified to meet relevant EPA emissions standards for its model year.
