Segment:
Full-size touring motorcycle, premium cruiser segment.
Target Audience:
Touring enthusiasts, riders seeking comfort and long-distance capability.
Competitors:
Indian Chief, Honda Gold Wing (different segment but comparable touring intent), custom choppers.
Distinctive Features:
Frame-mounted fairing for improved handling and reduced fork stress, comfortable riding position, ample storage via saddlebags.
Touring Focus:
Designed for long-haul comfort and luggage carrying capacity, often equipped with premium audio systems and wind protection.
Engine:
Twin Cam 88 (EFI and Carbureted variants if applicable for the model year), lubrication, cooling systems.
Transmission:
5-speed constant mesh gearbox, clutch operation, primary drive, final drive.
Electrical:
Ignition system, lighting, charging system, battery, starter, gauges, wiring diagrams, security system.
Chassis And Suspension:
Frame, front fork (including internal components and adjustments), rear shock absorbers, swingarm, wheel bearings, steering head bearings.
Brakes:
Front and rear hydraulic disc brake systems, master cylinders, calipers, brake lines, brake fluid specifications.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Keihin CV 40) or Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) system, fuel pump, fuel tank, fuel lines.
Bodywork And Fittings:
Fairing (including batwing style), saddlebags, fuel tank, fenders, seat, handlebars, controls, instrumentation.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, brake fluid flush, drive belt inspection and adjustment, battery maintenance.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (for EFI models).
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly for all major systems.
Overhaul:
Complete engine, transmission, and fork overhauls, including specifications for clearances and tolerances.
Adjustment:
Carburetor/EFI adjustments, clutch adjustment, throttle cable adjustment, idle speed setting, suspension adjustments.
Torque Specifications:
Comprehensive list of torque values for all critical fasteners.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, including electrical testing methods, continuity checks, and voltage/resistance measurements.
Rebuild Instructions:
Detailed instructions for complete engine rebuilds, including piston ring gap, valve seat machining, and bearing clearances.
Component Identification:
Identification of all parts and components with diagrams and part numbers where applicable.
Engine Family:
Evolution (pre-Twin Cam for some models, but 1998 Road Glide would be transitioning or already on Twin Cam. Need to verify for exact FLTR 1998).
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin
Displacement Cc:
1337 cc (81.7 cu in) - for the Twin Cam 88
Bore X Stroke Mm:
3.75 in x 4.00 in (95.25 mm x 101.6 mm) - for Twin Cam 88
Compression Ratio:
8.3:1 (typical for Twin Cam 88)
Horsepower Hp:
Approx. 67-70 HP (at crankshaft, estimated)
Torque Lb Ft:
Approx. 75-80 lb-ft (at crankshaft, estimated)
Carburetor:
Keihin CV (Constant Velocity) 40mm (standard for many 1998 models)
Efi System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (available on some variants for 1998, check specific model VIN).
Oil Capacity Quarts:
4.0 quarts (3.8 L) with filter change (typical for Twin Cam 88)
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine V-Twin Oil SAE 20W-50 or equivalent (check manual for exact specification)
Type:
5-speed constant mesh
Gear Ratios:
1st: 9.312, 2nd: 6.438, 3rd: 4.744, 4th: 3.802, 5th: 3.150 (typical ratios, verify in manual)
Primary Drive:
Duplex chain, wet clutch
Final Drive:
Belt drive, 32mm wide belt
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission and Primary Chaincase Lubricant or equivalent (check manual)
Transmission Capacity Quarts:
2.7 quarts (2.5 L) (verify in manual)
Length Mm:
2350 mm (92.5 in) (approx.)
Width Mm:
920 mm (36.2 in) (approx. at handlebars)
Height Mm:
1360 mm (53.5 in) (approx. at windshield)
Dry Weight Kg:
307 kg (677 lbs) (approx.)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Kg:
530 kg (1168 lbs) (typical)
Fuel Capacity Liters:
19 L (5.0 US gal) (typical)
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycles typically do not receive NHTSA safety ratings in the same way cars do).
Braking System:
Dual front disc brakes, single rear disc brake with hydraulic actuation.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED taillight, amber turn signals, brake light.
Chassis Design:
Sturdy steel frame designed for stability and rider confidence.
Fairing Protection:
Frame-mounted fairing provides significant wind protection and deflects road debris.
Audio System:
Factory-installed radio/cassette player with speakers integrated into the fairing (often a premium feature for touring models).
Cruise Control:
Available as an option or standard on some touring variants of the Road Glide.
ABS Brakes:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was not standard on all 1998 models but was available as an option on higher-end touring models.
Instrumentation:
Analog speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, oil pressure light, and indicator lights.
Oil Change Miles:
Every 5,000 miles or 12 months (typical for this era, check manual for precise interval)
Spark Plug Replacement Miles:
Every 10,000 - 15,000 miles (typical, depending on plug type)
Drive Belt Tension Check Miles:
Every 5,000 miles
Brake Fluid Flush Miles:
Every 2 years or 24,000 miles
Primary Chain Case Fluid:
Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission and Primary Chaincase Lubricant or equivalent
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (check manual for specific Harley-Davidson recommendation)
Fork Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine front fork oil or equivalent (viscosity typically 10W or 15W, check manual)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, wheel bearings, steering head bearings, brake pads.
Electrical Gremlins:
Wiring harness integrity, especially around the fairing and under the seat, can be prone to wear or corrosion over time.
Carburetor Performance:
Keihin CV carburetors can require periodic cleaning and adjustment to maintain optimal performance, especially with age.
Fuel System Concerns:
Potential for fuel line degradation or leaks over extended periods, regular inspection recommended.
Founding:
Founded in 1903 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.
Reputation:
Iconic American motorcycle manufacturer known for its V-twin engines and cruiser styling.
Road Glide Introduction:
The Road Glide concept with its frame-mounted fairing was introduced in 1980. The FLTR model as we know it, with the modern styling and touring features, gained prominence in later years.
1998 Significance:
1998 marked a significant year as Harley-Davidson began transitioning to its new Twin Cam 88 engine architecture, which would define its models for years to come. Early 1998 models might still feature the Evolution engine, but the Twin Cam 88 was introduced this year.
Manufacturing Location:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
Brand Awards:
Harley-Davidson has received numerous awards and recognitions throughout its history for its engineering, design, and iconic status in the motorcycle industry.
Model Reputation:
The Road Glide is consistently praised for its comfortable ride, long-distance touring capabilities, and distinctive styling.
Manual Quality:
Certified as a complete factory service manual, providing authorized repair and maintenance procedures.