Market Segment:
Full-size American cruiser, touring motorcycle.
Competitors:
Primarily competes with other large-displacement cruisers from American and Japanese manufacturers, such as Indian Chief, Victory Kingpin, and Honda Gold Wing (though Gold Wing is a different category of tourer).
Distinctive Features:
Detachable windshield, classic styling, wide handlebars, comfortable seating for rider and passenger, and the iconic Harley-Davidson V-twin rumble.
Primary Users:
Long-distance touring riders, cruising enthusiasts, and owners who perform their own maintenance and repairs.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete teardown, inspection, assembly, and troubleshooting for the Twin Cam 96 engine.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection (Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection - ESPFI), fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel tank, and lines.
Ignition System:
Ignition module, coils, spark plugs, and related sensors.
Transmission Drivetrain:
6-speed Cruise Drive transmission, clutch operation, primary drive, and final drive belt.
Chassis Frame:
Frame inspection, steering head bearings, and fork assembly.
Suspension Front:
Front fork disassembly, service, oil type, and specifications.
Suspension Rear:
Rear shock absorber adjustment and replacement.
Brakes Front:
Front brake caliper service, rotor inspection, master cylinder, and brake fluid specifications.
Brakes Rear:
Rear brake caliper service, rotor inspection, master cylinder, and brake fluid specifications.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), starting system (starter motor, solenoid), lighting, and accessory circuits.
Instruments Controls:
Dashboard, gauges, switches, throttle control, and clutch/brake levers.
Bodywork Fittings:
Fender mounting, fuel tank removal, seat installation, fairing (if applicable), saddlebags, and windshield.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Detailed diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, air filter servicing, spark plug replacement, and lubrication points.
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake system servicing, electrical component replacement.
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing all major and minor components.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all systems.
Depth Of Information:
Extremely detailed, covering everything from basic checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including factory specifications and torque values.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Twin Cam 96 V-twin
Displacement:
96 cubic inches (1584 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.75 in. x 4.38 in. (95.25 mm x 111.25 mm)
Valve Train:
Pushrod-actuated overhead valves with hydraulic valve lifters, 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
Approx. 78 hp @ 5200 rpm (Manufacturer's estimate, actual may vary)
Torque:
Approx. 96 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (Manufacturer's estimate, actual may vary)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (AKI)
Oil Capacity:
3.5 U.S. quarts (3.3 liters) with filter change
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Syn3 Full Synthetic Motorcycle Oil (or equivalent SAE 20W-50)
Transmission Type:
6-speed Cruise Drive
Primary Drive:
Multiplate clutch, wet; chain drive to transmission
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic, multi-plate wet clutch
Transmission Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission & Primary Chain Case Lubricant (or equivalent SAE 50)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
24 U.S. fl oz (0.71 liters)
Safety Ratings:
Motorcycles are not typically subjected to standardized crash test ratings like automobiles. Safety relies on rider skill, adherence to maintenance, and operational features.
Braking System:
Dual-disc front brakes, single disc rear brake. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was often an option for 2010 models and is detailed in the manual.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED taillight, turn signals, and brake lights for enhanced visibility.
Frame Construction:
Steel frame and swingarm for structural integrity.
Ergonomics:
Comfortable rider triangle for reduced fatigue on long rides.
Audio System:
Optional AM/FM/CD player with handlebar-mounted controls and speakers. Audio quality and features are basic by modern standards but functional for touring.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was a factory option for 2010 FLHR models. The manual details its operation, diagnostics, and service.
Cruise Control:
Electronic cruise control was a standard feature on the 2010 FLHR Road King, enhancing comfort on long highway rides.
Gauge Cluster:
Includes speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, voltage meter, and indicator lights. Diagnostics can often be accessed through the odometer display.
First Service:
1,000 miles (1600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Includes oil change, primary fluid check, inspection of controls, chassis components, and tire pressure.
Subsequent Services:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months. Includes oil change, primary fluid change, engine oil and filter change, inspection of all systems.
Annual Service:
Recommended annually, or every 5,000 miles, whichever comes first. Focuses on fluids, filters, and comprehensive inspection.
Engine Oil:
SAE 20W-50 (Harley-Davidson Syn3 recommended)
Primary Chain Case Oil:
SAE 50 (Harley-Davidson Formula + recommended)
Transmission Oil:
SAE 50 (Harley-Davidson Formula + recommended)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (Check for ABS compatibility if equipped, manual will specify)
Fork Oil:
Harley-Davidson Fork Oil (Type E or equivalent, specific viscosity detailed in manual)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, brake pads, drive belt, tires, wheel bearings, and handlebar-mounted controls can show wear over time.
Potential Engine Issues:
While the Twin Cam 96 is robust, some early models experienced issues like cam chain tensioner wear. The 2010 models are generally more reliable, but the manual provides diagnostic steps for potential problems.
Electrical Gremlins:
As with many complex vehicles, intermittent electrical issues can arise, often related to wiring harness connections or sensor failures. The comprehensive wiring diagrams and troubleshooting section are crucial here.
Brand Legacy:
Harley-Davidson has a long and storied history dating back to 1903, synonymous with American motorcycle culture, freedom, and customization.
Road King Lineage:
The Road King model line was introduced in 1994, evolving from earlier large Harley-Davidson touring models. It emphasizes a more classic, stripped-down touring aesthetic compared to the Batwing fairing equipped models like the Electra Glide.
2010 Updates:
The 2010 FLHR Road King featured the established Twin Cam 96 engine, 6-speed transmission, and a refined chassis. Key features like the detachable windshield and classic styling remained central to its identity.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (primarily York, Pennsylvania and Milwaukee, Wisconsin)