Market Position:
High-end touring motorcycles, positioned as premium, long-distance cruisers offering comfort, style, and significant luggage capacity. Targeting experienced riders and those seeking the quintessential American touring experience.
Competitive Analysis:
Competes directly with other large-displacement touring motorcycles from brands like Honda (Gold Wing), Kawasaki (Voyager), and Indian (Roadmaster) in the premium touring segment. Harley-Davidson's market strength lies in its brand heritage, V-twin engine character, and extensive customization options.
Key Features:
FLHRC: Classic styling with leather-covered saddlebags, wire-spoke wheels, and wide whitewall tires. FLHTC: Premium touring features including a large fairing with windshield, fairing lowers, extensive fairing vents, and spacious hard-shell saddlebags and tour-pak for maximum cargo. Both models typically feature the Twin Cam 88B engine, air-adjustable rear suspension, and cruise control (standard on FLHTC, optional on FLHRC).
Systems Covered:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Chassis, Suspension, Brakes, Electrical System, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Bodywork, Fairings, Accessories, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Maintenance Procedures.
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, scheduled servicing, complete disassembly and reassembly, engine tuning and adjustments, clutch service, transmission overhaul, brake bleeding and repair, electrical diagnostics, wiring diagrams, fuel injection system service, carburetor adjustments (if applicable), suspension calibration, wheel bearing replacement, tire mounting and balancing, cosmetic repairs, accessory installation, and detailed troubleshooting guides.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance checks and fluid changes to advanced engine rebuilding, complex electrical troubleshooting, and frame-off restorations. Includes detailed torque specifications, alignment procedures, and diagnostic flowcharts.
Primary Engine:
Harley-Davidson Twin Cam 88B (Balanced for Rigid Mounting)
Displacement:
1449 cc (88 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.75 in. x 4.00 in. (95.25 mm x 101.6 mm)
Horsepower:
Approximately 65-70 HP (at the crankshaft, final figures vary slightly).
Torque:
Approximately 85-90 ft-lbs (at the crankshaft, final figures vary slightly).
Cylinder Configuration:
V-twin, 45-degree cylinder angle
Cooling System:
Air-cooled
Fuel System:
Fuel Injection (Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection - ESPFI)
Ignition System:
Electronic Spark Ignition (ESPFI)
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4 quarts (3.8 liters) including filter.
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine V-Twin Synthetic Oil (or equivalent meeting Harley-Davidson specifications for air-cooled V-twins).
Standard:
5-speed constant mesh manual transmission
Optional:
N/A (5-speed manual was standard for these models in 2006).
Features:
Clutch: Multi-plate, wet; Primary Drive: Duplex chain, 34/46 ratio; Final Drive: Belt, 32/66 ratio.
Transmission Fluid Capacity
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 24 U.S. fl oz (710 ml).
Transmission Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Transmission Fluid or equivalent 75W-90 synthetic gear lubricant.
Exterior Length:
Approximately 93.5 inches (2375 mm)
Exterior Width:
Approximately 37 inches (940 mm)
Exterior Height:
Approximately 54 inches (1372 mm) for FLHTC, lower for FLHRC.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 63.5 inches (1613 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approximately 5.1 inches (130 mm)
Seat Height Laden:
Approximately 27.1 inches (688 mm)
Dry Weight:
FLHRC: Approx. 770 lbs (350 kg); FLHTC: Approx. 800 lbs (363 kg).
Fuel Capacity:
5.0 U.S. gallons (18.9 liters)
Cargo Capacity:
Significant, with large saddlebags and tour-pak (FLHTC) or leather saddlebags (FLHRC). Specific volume not detailed in product info.
Ratings:
Motorcycles are not typically rated by agencies like NHTSA for crash safety in the same way cars are. Safety is inherent in rider skill and adherence to traffic laws.
Active Features:
Integrated braking system (front and rear linked), effective headlight and taillight, turn signals, hazard lights. Cruise control (standard on FLHTC) enhances rider fatigue management.
Passive Features:
Sturdy frame construction, rider protection from fairing and fairing lowers (FLHTC), rider floorboards, passenger grab rails, secure luggage compartments.
Tire Size Front:
130/90B16 M/C 67H (Typical for FLHRC with whitewall, may vary slightly for FLHTC)
Tire Size Rear:
150/80B16 M/C 77H (Typical for both models)
Brakes Front:
Dual 320mm (12.6 in.) floating hydraulic discs with 4-piston calipers.
Brakes Rear:
Single 320mm (12.6 in.) hydraulic disc with 4-piston caliper.
Infotainment:
Factory-installed premium sound system (AM/FM radio, CD player) integrated into the fairing. Likely features 4 speakers. Limited by 2006 technology standards.
Driver Assistance:
Cruise control (standard on FLHTC) is a primary driver assistance feature. Electronic cruise control simplifies long-distance riding.
Connectivity:
No modern smartphone integration or Bluetooth connectivity. Primarily analog systems with a CD player.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, auxiliary passing lamps (standard on FLHTC), LED taillight, and standard amber front/rear turn signals. Often feature chrome headlight nacelles and passing lamp brackets.
Instrumentation:
Analog speedometer and tachometer, fuel gauge, oil pressure gauge, voltage meter, and indicator lamps for turn signals, high beam, neutral, and oil pressure. Often includes a trip meter and clock.
Service Intervals Engine Oil
Service Intervals Engine Oil:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Check oil level at every fuel stop.
Service Intervals Transmission Fluid
Service Intervals Transmission Fluid:
Check level every 10,000 miles (16,000 km). Change every 20,000 miles (32,000 km) or as recommended by manual.
Service Intervals Primary Chain Case Fluid
Service Intervals Primary Chain Case Fluid:
Check level every 10,000 miles (16,000 km). Change every 20,000 miles (32,000 km) or as recommended by manual.
Service Intervals Spark Plugs
Service Intervals Spark Plugs:
Replace every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Service Intervals Air Filter
Service Intervals Air Filter:
Inspect every 5,000 miles (8,000 km). Clean or replace as needed based on conditions.
Service Intervals Drive Belt
Service Intervals Drive Belt:
Inspect tension and condition every 5,000 miles (8,000 km). Replace as needed.
Fluid Specifications Engine Oil
Fluid Specifications Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson Genuine V-Twin Synthetic Oil SAE 20W-50 (or equivalent meeting H-D spec).
Fluid Specifications Transmission Fluid
Fluid Specifications Transmission Fluid:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Transmission Fluid or SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Lubricant.
Fluid Specifications Primary Chain Case Fluid
Fluid Specifications Primary Chain Case Fluid:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Primary Chaincase Lubricant or SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Lubricant.
Fluid Specifications Brake Fluid
Fluid Specifications Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Synthetic Brake Fluid.
Known Issues:
Common issues can include oil leaks from the primary or transmission seals, potential clutch drag, and occasional electrical gremlins. Some Twin Cam engines might exhibit piston slap when cold. However, the 2006 models with the Twin Cam 88B are generally considered robust. The manual will provide detailed troubleshooting for these and other potential issues.
Brand Heritage:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is one of the oldest and most iconic motorcycle manufacturers globally. Known for its distinctive V-twin engines, customization culture, and strong brand loyalty. The FL chassis designation dates back to the 1940s, evolving significantly over the decades.
Model Evolution:
The FLHT/FLHTCU family represents the pinnacle of Harley-Davidson touring. The FLHTC (Electra Glide Classic) and FLHRC (Road King Classic) are variations on the touring theme. The 'Classic' designation often denotes more traditional styling cues like wire wheels and leather accents. The introduction of the Twin Cam engine in 1999 marked a significant evolution in performance and reliability.
Production:
The 2006 models are part of the Harley-Davidson 'Big Twin' touring lineup, produced at Harley-Davidson's York, Pennsylvania, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin facilities. These models were highly popular and continue to be sought after in the used market.
Recognitions:
While specific awards for the 2006 models aren't typically documented, Harley-Davidson touring bikes consistently receive accolades from motorcycle publications for their comfort, handling (for their size), and iconic status. They are often ranked highly in customer satisfaction surveys within the touring segment.
Ratings:
Consistent high ratings from owner reviews and enthusiast communities for reliability, comfort, and the overall riding experience. Often cited as benchmarks for American V-twin touring.
Certifications:
Manufactured to meet all applicable EPA emissions standards and DOT safety regulations for motorcycles in the United States.