Positioning:
Harley-Davidson's 2015 Touring models, particularly the Road King and Road Glide, represent the pinnacle of long-distance comfort and customizable style, catering to riders seeking a classic American touring experience with modern performance.
Competition:
Competes with other premium large-displacement touring motorcycles from brands like Indian, Honda Gold Wing, and BMW R 1200 RT in terms of comfort, features, and target demographic.
Touring Comfort:
Large fairings (Road Glide), comfortable seating positions, ample storage (saddlebags), and rider-focused ergonomics.
Engine Performance:
Powerful Twin Cam 103 High Output engine provides strong torque for effortless cruising and passing.
Customization Platform:
Harley-Davidson's extensive accessory catalog allows for deep personalization of these models.
Engine Service:
Routine maintenance, troubleshooting, disassembly, inspection, and reassembly of Twin Cam 103 (High Output) engine components.
Fuel System Service:
EFI diagnostics, fuel pump, injectors, throttle body, sensors, and fuel tank service.
Transmission Service:
6-speed Cruise Drive transmission maintenance, repair, clutch service, and gear inspection.
Electrical System Service:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (stator, regulator), ignition, lighting, instrumentation, and accessory circuits.
Brake System Service:
Hydraulic brake system maintenance, bleeding procedures, pad replacement, caliper service, and ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) troubleshooting.
Suspension Service:
Front fork (Telescopic) and rear suspension (air-adjustable shock absorbers) maintenance, seal replacement, and fluid changes.
Chassis And Frame Service:
Frame inspection, steering head bearing service, wheel and tire maintenance, and bodywork removal/installation.
Cooling System Service:
Engine oil cooling system maintenance and fluid checks.
Exhaust System Service:
Exhaust component inspection and replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts and procedures for common issues, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation.
Basic Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, air filter cleaning/replacement, brake pad inspection/replacement, chain/belt adjustment (if applicable), tire pressure checks.
Intermediate Repairs:
Fork seal replacement, shock absorber service, clutch adjustment, starter motor service, battery replacement, light bulb replacement.
Advanced Repairs:
Engine top-end overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper overhaul, ABS system diagnostics and bleeding, electrical component replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic guides for various performance and system faults, including starting issues, charging system problems, and braking malfunctions.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers from basic rider maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes torque specifications, clearances, and detailed exploded views.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Twin Cam 103 High Output
Displacement:
103 cu in (1690 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.875 in x 4.375 in (98.4 mm x 111.1 mm)
Horsepower Est:
Approx. 75 HP @ 5500 RPM (crank)
Torque Est:
Approx. 105 lb-ft @ 3500 RPM (crank)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI), 50mm throttle body
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 91 octane or higher (recommended)
Oil Capacity:
3.7 US quarts (3.5 liters)
Oil Type Spec:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 (Synthetic) SAE 20W-50 or equivalent motorcycle oil meeting API CI-4 or API CH-4, ACEA A3/B4.
Transmission Type:
6-speed Cruise Drive
Primary Drive:
Duplex chain, 34/46 ratio
Final Drive:
Belt, 32/66 ratio
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated, 9-plate, wet clutch
Transmission Fluid Spec:
Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission, Primary Chain Case Lubricant (or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
2.7 US quarts (2.5 liters)
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety ratings typically differ from automotive; focus is on design and compliance with relevant safety standards).
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on front and rear wheels.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp and auxiliary passing lamps, LED tail/stop lights.
Chassis Design:
Steel frame and swingarm for robust construction.
Audio System:
Boom! Box 4.3 or 6.5 infotainment system (depending on trim) with AM/FM, CB, intercom, and optional navigation.
Connectivity:
Bluetooth connectivity for audio and phone, USB port for iPod/iPhone, SD card slot.
Cruise Control:
Electronic cruise control standard on both models.
Instrumentation:
Analog gauges for speedometer and tachometer, with a multi-function LCD display for fuel level, gear indication, clock, trip meters, and diagnostic codes.
First Service:
1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months (whichever comes first) - typically includes engine oil and filter change, primary chain case oil check, and general inspection.
Subsequent Service:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months - includes engine oil and filter, primary chain case oil change, inspection of various components (brakes, tires, etc.).
Engine Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months.
Transmission Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 24 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended every 10,000 miles (16,000 km).
Engine Oil Spec:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 SAE 20W-50 or H-D approved 20W-50 motorcycle oil.
Primary Chain Case Fluid Spec:
Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission, Primary Chain Case Lubricant.
Rear Suspension Fluid Spec:
Air (for air-adjustable shocks), specific procedures for inflating/deflating.
Cam Chain Tensioner Wear:
Potential wear of the hydraulic cam chain tensioners on Twin Cam engines, leading to noise. Often addressed with updated tensioners or other upgrades.
Charging System Reliability:
Occasional issues with stator or voltage regulator. Manual will detail diagnostic procedures.
ABS Sensor Issues:
Rare, but ABS sensors or wiring can be a source of system faults. Diagnostics outlined in the manual.
Heritage:
Harley-Davidson boasts a rich history dating back to 1903, renowned for its V-twin engines and iconic cruiser and touring motorcycles.
Road King Evolution:
The Road King lineage began in 1994, evolving from the classic FLH models, offering a more stripped-down, traditional touring look with removable windscreen.
Road Glide Evolution:
The Road Glide, introduced in 1980, is distinguished by its frame-mounted fairing, offering superior aerodynamics and a unique riding experience. It has undergone significant design updates over the years.
Production Era:
2015 models feature the Twin Cam 103 engine, a significant step in Harley-Davidson's continuous powertrain development.
Industry Awards:
Harley-Davidson Touring motorcycles consistently receive praise for their comfort, styling, and V-twin character in motorcycle enthusiast publications and buyer reviews.
Long Distance Reviews:
Frequently cited as top-tier choices for long-distance touring by major motorcycle media outlets.
Certification Compliance:
Manufactured to meet all relevant EPA, DOT, and NHTSA safety and emissions standards for motorcycles.
