Market Position:
The Harley-Davidson Road King FLHR is a flagship model in the touring cruiser segment, renowned for its classic styling, comfortable ride, and long-distance capabilities. It appeals to riders who prioritize traditional aesthetics and a relaxed riding experience.
Competitive Landscape:
Competes with other large displacement touring motorcycles from manufacturers like Indian Motorcycle (e.g., Chief, Chieftain) and premium offerings from Japanese brands.
Key Features Vehicle:
Iconic batwing fairing (often detachable or optional), large storage capacity (saddlebags), comfortable seating for rider and passenger, powerful V-twin engine, classic chrome accents, spacious rider ergonomics.
Key Features Manual:
Provides in-depth technical knowledge for owners and independent repair shops to maintain and repair their specific model, saving on dealership costs and enabling customization.
Engine Service:
Complete engine overhaul, disassembly, assembly, component inspection, timing, valve adjustments, lubrication systems, cooling systems (for Twin-Cooled variants), fuel injection diagnostics and repair.
Transmission Service:
Service and repair of the 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission, clutch operation, gear shifting mechanisms, lubrication.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, troubleshooting guides for ignition, lighting, charging system, starting system, EFI sensors, instrumentation, audio systems (if applicable), security system.
Chassis And Suspension:
Fork disassembly and service, rear shock absorber replacement and adjustment, wheel bearing service, steering head bearing maintenance, frame inspection.
Braking System:
Brake caliper service, master cylinder overhaul, brake line replacement, bleeding procedures, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics and repair.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank service, fuel pump operation and testing, fuel injector diagnosis, throttle body service.
Bodywork And Fittings:
Fairing removal and installation, fender service, seat adjustment and removal, saddlebag mounting and repair, handlebar and control adjustments.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance checks, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, drive belt inspection and adjustment.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common issues, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, and reassembly, including torque specifications and critical tolerances.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Guidance on using diagnostic tools, interpreting sensor data, and identifying root causes of malfunctions.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, and advanced electrical diagnostics.
File Format Details:
Likely a searchable PDF document with high-resolution diagrams and clear text for easy navigation and printing.
Diagram Quality:
High-resolution, clear, and detailed technical illustrations and exploded views.
Binding Type:
Not applicable for digital format, but professionally compiled for easy digital access.
Paper Type:
Not applicable for digital format.
Engine Type:
Air-Cooled, 4-Stroke, 2-Cylinder, V-Twin
Engine Family:
High Output Twin Cam 103 (T103)
Bore X Stroke:
3.875 in x 4.380 in (98.4 mm x 111.3 mm)
Engine Cooling:
Air-Cooled (with mention of Twin-Cooled variants for certain models/years)
Horsepower:
Approx. 85-90 HP (estimated, varies slightly by year and tune)
Torque:
Approx. 100-105 ft-lbs @ 3,500 RPM (estimated)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline, 91 octane or higher recommended
Valvetrain Type:
Pushrod actuated, overhead valves (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder
Length:
Approx. 97.4 in (2474 mm)
Width:
Approx. 37.0 in (940 mm)
Height:
Approx. 55.5 in (1410 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 64.5 in (1638 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 730 lbs (331 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 1250 lbs (567 kg)
Payload Capacity:
Approx. 520 lbs (236 kg)
Saddlebag Capacity:
Large, lockable hard-shell saddlebags (capacity specified in manual, typically around 2.3 cu ft total)
Safety Ratings:
Motorcycles are not typically rated by organizations like NHTSA or IIHS in the same way as cars. Safety is primarily dependent on rider skill and active/passive features.
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) often standard or optional depending on trim and year, Linked Braking System (LBS) in some configurations, powerful braking components.
Passive Safety Features:
Robust frame construction, bright lighting for visibility, sturdy handlebars and controls, passenger grab handles and footpegs.
Infotainment System:
Boom!™ Box infotainment system (standard or optional depending on year/trim), featuring AM/FM radio, CB/intercom (optional), voice recognition, Bluetooth connectivity for music and calls, USB/iPod compatibility.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, ABS, sometimes integrated hazard light function.
Connectivity Features:
Bluetooth pairing for devices, optional USB port for media playback and charging.
Instrumentation Type:
Analog speedometer and tachometer with integrated digital displays for odometer, trip meters, gear indicator, fuel level, clock, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Initial Service Mileage:
1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (includes engine oil and filter change, primary chain adjustment, inspection of various components).
Subsequent Service Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months for routine service (oil change, filter, inspection). More detailed checks at 10,000, 20,000 mile intervals. Specific intervals for brake fluid, transmission oil, and spark plugs are detailed in the manual.
Engine Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine V-Twin 20W-50 Synthetic (or approved equivalent meeting Harley-Davidson specifications).
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.0 US quarts (3.8 liters) with filter change.
Primary Chain Case Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Formula+ (or approved equivalent).
Primary Chain Case Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.4 US quarts (2.3 liters).
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Syn-3 or Formula+ (or approved equivalent).
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.7 US quarts (2.6 liters).
Coolant Type:
For Twin-Cooled models: Harley-Davidson Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water).
Common Issues To Monitor:
Rocker box oil leaks (especially early Twin Cam models, though improved by T103), charging system component failures (stator, regulator), clutch wear, primary compensator issues, ABS sensor faults, internal transmission wear (less common on well-maintained units).
Manual Assistance For Issues:
The manual provides detailed diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting flowcharts, and repair instructions for addressing these common issues, including specific torque values and assembly sequences.
Brand Heritage:
Harley-Davidson has a rich history dating back to 1903, synonymous with American motorcycle culture, customization, and a distinctive V-twin sound and feel.
Model Evolution Road King:
The Road King lineage traces back to the classic FL models of the 1940s and 50s. The FLHR specifically, introduced in 1994, revived the iconic styling with a modern chassis and engine. The 2014-2017 models are part of the 'Project Rushmore' update, bringing significant enhancements.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in York, Pennsylvania, USA and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.
Industry Awards:
Harley-Davidson motorcycles, including the Road King, are consistently recognized for their craftsmanship, design, and rider experience by various motorcycle publications and rider communities.
Rider Satisfaction Ratings:
Often receives high rider satisfaction ratings for comfort, performance, and brand loyalty.
Manual Certification:
While not a formal certification, the manual is recognized as an official or industry-standard workshop manual for the specific model year range, compiled by experts in the field.
