Market Position:
The Harley-Davidson FLHR Road King is positioned as a premium large-displacement touring motorcycle, offering classic styling with modern amenities. It caters to riders seeking comfort for long-distance travel, a substantial presence on the road, and the iconic Harley-Davidson riding experience. It competes in the luxury touring segment against models from Indian Motorcycle and other premium brands.
Competitive Analysis:
The 2017 Road King, equipped with the new Milwaukee-Eight engine, significantly improved performance and rider comfort compared to previous models. Its primary competitors include the Indian Chief and Springfield models, both offering strong V-twin powertrains and classic styling, but the Road King's extensive dealer network and brand loyalty are significant advantages.
Key Features:
Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine, iconic Batwing fairing with windscreen, comfortable two-up seating, ample luggage capacity with hard saddlebags, electronic cruise control, optional ABS, hydraulic clutch, advanced front and rear suspension for improved ride quality.
Coverage Areas:
Complete factory service, repair, and workshop procedures
Page Count:
Estimated 800-1000 pages (typical for comprehensive Harley-Davidson service manuals)
Manual Type:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Licensing:
No expiration dates, perpetual access.
Systems Covered:
Engine (Milwaukee-Eight 107), Fuel System (Injection & Ignition), Transmission, Drivetrain, Chassis, Suspension, Brakes (ABS equipped), Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Ignition, Controls), Fuel Tank, Bodywork, Fairings, Luggage, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Maintenance
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Service, Engine Overhaul, Transmission Repair, Clutch Service, Brake System Bleeding and Replacement, Suspension Adjustments and Overhaul, Electrical Component Testing and Replacement, Wiring Harness Repair, Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Interpretation and Resolution, Tune-Up Procedures, Tire and Wheel Service, Body Panel Removal and Installation, Hardtail and Softail Chassis Repair
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic fluid changes and inspections to complete engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and advanced electrical diagnostics. Includes detailed torque specifications, clearance measurements, and component testing procedures.
Diagnostic Tools Covered:
Procedures for using Harley-Davidson's Digital Technician (or equivalent diagnostic software/hardware) to read and clear Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), perform system tests, and recalibrate components.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Detailed troubleshooting flowcharts and symptom-based diagnostics for all major systems including engine performance, starting issues, electrical faults, braking problems, and more.
File Format:
Searchable PDF
Print Quality:
High-resolution, designed for clear viewing and printing of diagrams and text.
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Completeness:
Complete Factory Service Manual, providing all necessary information for maintenance, repair, and diagnostics. No missing sections or abridged content.
Engine Type:
Milwaukee-Eight 107 V-Twin
Displacement:
1745cc (107 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
4.016 in. x 4.125 in. (102 mm x 105 mm)
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Valve Train:
Overhead Valves (OHV), 4 valves per cylinder
Peak Torque:
111.4 ft-lb @ 3250 RPM (151 Nm @ 3250 RPM) - Official Harley-Davidson figure for 107ci Milwaukee-Eight
Horsepower:
Approx. 93 HP (Estimates vary, official HP figures are not always published by Harley-Davidson; torque is the primary performance metric)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline, minimum 91 octane
Fuel Tank Capacity:
6.0 gallons (22.7 L)
Cooling Method:
Air-cooled with oil cooling for cylinder heads
Lubrication Type:
Dry-sump with oil tank
Intake System:
High-flow air cleaner
Exhaust System:
Dual mufflers, 2-into-1-into-2 exhaust
Transmission Type:
6-speed Cruise Drive
Optional Transmission:
N/A (Standard)
Clutch:
Hydraulic, Assist & Slip
Primary Drive:
Chain, 34/46 ratio
Final Drive:
Belt, 32/66 ratio
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approximately 1.0 US qt. (0.95 L) for transmission and primary
Gear Ratios:
1st: 9.593, 2nd: 6.650, 3rd: 4.938, 4th: 3.891, 5th: 3.307, 6th: 2.790
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycles typically do not receive automotive safety ratings)
Active Safety Features:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), hydraulic front and rear brakes, integrated lighting.
Passive Safety Features:
Strong steel frame construction, 3-point mounting for engine, robust fairing for wind deflection, comfortable seating for rider and passenger.
Infotainment System:
Boom! Box 4.3 or 6.5 Infotainment System (depending on optional upgrades). Features AM/FM radio, USB port, Bluetooth connectivity for audio and calls.
Display:
4.3-inch or 6.5-inch color touchscreen display.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise Control, Optional ABS.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth for phone and audio, optional GPS navigation (on 6.5 GT system).
First Service:
1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Subsequent Service:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months.
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 (Synthetic) SAE 20W-50, or equivalent API CI-4 certified synthetic motorcycle oil.
Transmission Oil:
Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission & Primary Chaincase Lubricant, or equivalent.
Primary Chaincase Oil:
Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission & Primary Chaincase Lubricant, or equivalent.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (for ABS and non-ABS systems)
Fork Oil:
Refer to manual for specific type and viscosity (e.g., Harley-Davidson Type E or Type B, or equivalent based on desired damping characteristics)
Known Issues:
Potential for early Milwaukee-Eight engines to have some oil consumption, starter clutch issues (less common on 2017 models), exhaust valve (Exup) servo problems (on earlier M8 models), minor electrical gremlins if not maintained. The manual will detail specific troubleshooting for these and other potential concerns.
Tire Pressure Front:
36 PSI (248 kPa)
Tire Pressure Rear:
40 PSI (276 kPa)
Brand Heritage:
Harley-Davidson boasts over a century of motorcycle manufacturing, synonymous with American culture and freedom. Founded in 1903, the brand is revered for its V-twin engines, distinctive sound, and rider community.
Model Evolution:
The Road King (FLHR) was introduced in 1994 as part of the FL Touring family. It distinguished itself by offering a more 'classic' look without a large fairing (though the batwing is standard on the FLHR for 2017), emphasizing an open-road touring experience. The 2017 model year marked a significant upgrade with the introduction of the Milwaukee-Eight engine family.
Production Location:
United States (Various Harley-Davidson assembly plants, e.g., York, PA; Milwaukee, WI)
Model Years Produced:
1994-Present (with significant updates over the years)
Recognitions:
Harley-Davidson motorcycles, including the Road King, are consistently recognized for their iconic styling and enduring appeal. While specific awards for the 2017 model year may vary, the Milwaukee-Eight engine platform received significant industry praise for its performance upgrade.
Ratings:
Customer satisfaction ratings are typically very high for Harley-Davidson products, reflecting brand loyalty and rider experience. The Road King is often praised for its comfort and long-distance capability.