Market Position:
The FLHR Road King is Harley-Davidson's flagship touring cruiser, blending classic styling with comfortable long-distance riding capabilities. It appeals to riders seeking a traditional American motorcycle experience with modern conveniences.
Competitive Analysis:
Competes with other large-displacement cruisers and touring motorcycles from brands like Indian Motorcycle, Honda (Gold Wing, Shadow), and various custom builder platforms. Its distinct V-twin rumble and iconic styling set it apart.
Key Features:
Detachable windscreen, classic FL style front fairing, spacious saddlebags, comfortable rider and passenger seating, large fuel tank for extended range.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Electrical System, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Brakes, Suspension, Chassis, Frame, Bodywork, Instruments, Controls, Lighting, Accessories
Page Count:
Approximately 700-800 pages (typical for Harley-Davidson factory manuals of this era)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Engine Coverage:
Complete overhaul, disassembly, assembly, component testing, diagnosis, repair procedures for the Twin Cam 88 engine.
Transmission Coverage:
Service and repair of the 5-speed Cruise Drive transmission, including clutch, gear sets, and internal components.
Electrical Coverage:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting of ignition, charging, lighting, starter, and accessory systems.
Fuel System Coverage:
Carburetor (Keihin CV) service, adjustment, and troubleshooting; fuel injection system (if applicable for specific sub-models/emissions) diagnosis.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, brake fluid service, clutch adjustment, cable lubrication, battery maintenance.
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilds, transmission repairs, fork seal replacement, brake caliper overhauls, electrical component replacement, body panel removal/installation.
Troubleshooting Procedures:
Systematic diagnostic charts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common mechanical and electrical issues.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed specifications and tolerances.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Twin Cam 88 V-Twin
Displacement:
1449 cc (88 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.75 in. x 4.00 in. (95.25 mm x 101.6 mm)
Horsepower:
Approx. 70-75 HP (estimated at crankshaft, actual may vary)
Torque:
Approx. 85-90 ft-lbs at 3500 RPM (estimated at crankshaft, actual may vary)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor: Keihin CV 40 mm (or Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection - ESPFI on some sub-models/california emissions)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane
Ignition Type:
Electronic ignition, single spark
Cooling Method:
Air-cooled
Transmission Type:
5-speed constant mesh, manual
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate, diaphragm spring
Gear Ratios:
1st: 9.31, 2nd: 6.45, 3rd: 4.77, 4th: 3.77, 5th: 3.15
Final Drive:
Belt drive, 32/46 final ratio
Transmission Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ (or equivalent API GL-4, SAE 80W-90 gear oil)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
2.8 US quarts (2.6 Liters)
Safety Ratings:
Motorcycles are not typically rated by governmental safety agencies like cars. However, built to stringent Harley-Davidson safety standards.
Active Safety Features:
Dual disc front brakes, single disc rear brake, robust frame and suspension for stable handling.
Passive Safety Features:
Full-size fenders for rider protection from road debris, sturdy hand controls and footpegs.
Infotainment System:
Basic analog gauges (speedometer, tachometer), odometer, trip meter. Some models may have an optional CD player or radio integrated into the fairing.
Driver Assistance Features:
None (typical for this era of motorcycle)
Connectivity Features:
None (typical for this era of motorcycle)
First Service:
1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months
Subsequent Service:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months thereafter
Engine Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 (or equivalent SAE 20W-50 motorcycle oil meeting Harley-Davidson specifications)
Engine Oil Capacity:
3.0 US quarts (2.8 Liters) with filter change
Primary Chain Case Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ (or equivalent API GL-4, SAE 80W-90 gear oil)
Primary Chain Case Oil Capacity:
1.0 US quart (0.95 Liters)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (for front and rear brakes)
Known Issues Common:
Potential for oil leaks from the primary or transmission seals, cam chain tensioner wear (especially on early Twin Cam 88s), regulator/rectifier failure, starter solenoid issues.
Common Repairs:
Upgraded hydraulic cam chain tensioners, replacement of crank position sensor, voltage regulator replacement, battery replacement.
Brand Heritage:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, boasts over a century of motorcycle manufacturing, synonymous with American V-twin culture, freedom, and iconic design.
Model Evolution:
The Road King line was introduced in 1994, designed to evoke the classic FL models of the 1940s and 50s. The 2005 model features the then-current Twin Cam 88 engine and Cruise Drive transmission, representing a significant evolution in Harley-Davidson's powertrain technology.
Production Years:
The Twin Cam 88 engine was produced from 1999-2006. The FLHR Road King has been in continuous production since 1994.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (various Harley-Davidson factories)
