The Harley-Davidson Road King is positioned as a classic touring motorcycle, offering comfort, style, and the iconic Harley-Davidson experience. It appeals to riders who value traditional aesthetics and long-distance cruising capabilities.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Competes with other large-displacement touring and cruiser motorcycles from brands such as Indian, Honda (Gold Wing), and Suzuki (Intruder).
Key Features
Key Features:
Detachable windshield, large saddlebags, comfortable riding position, iconic V-twin engine, chrome accents, and classic styling.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Coverage Statement:
Complete service and repair procedures for the 1998 Harley-Davidson FLHRC-I Road King.
Harley-Davidson Genuine Formula Plus or Syn3 (refer to manual for specific SAE grade)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
93.1 in (2365 mm)
Width:
36.2 in (919 mm)
Height:
55.1 in (1400 mm)
Wheelbase:
62.5 in (1588 mm)
Ground Clearance:
5.2 in (132 mm)
Weights
Dry Weight:
708 lbs (321 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
1200 lbs (544 kg)
Cargo
Saddlebag Capacity:
Approximately 2 cubic feet each
Tires
Front Tire Size:
MT90B16 72H
Rear Tire Size:
130/90B16 73H
Wheels
Wheel Type:
Spoked, 16-inch diameter
Bolt Pattern:
N/A (Hub centric mounting for Harley-Davidson)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Ratings:
Motorcycles are not subject to the same standardized crash test ratings as automobiles. Safety performance is assessed through engineering design and real-world use.
Active Features
Braking System:
Dual front disc brakes with hydraulic calipers, single rear disc brake with hydraulic caliper.
Suspension:
Telescopic front fork (41mm), rear air-adjustable shock absorbers.
Passive Features
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, tail light, brake light, front and rear turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Steel cradle frame.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Basic instrumentation; typically no advanced infotainment systems. Features analog speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, oil pressure indicator, and indicator lights. May have provision for an optional radio/cassette player on some variants, but often not standard.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
None. Focus is on mechanical engagement and rider control.
Connectivity
Connectivity:
No Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
First Service:
1000 miles (1600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Subsequent Service:
Every 5000 miles (8000 km) or 12 months for routine checks and adjustments (refer to manual for specific interval tasks).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine V-Twin 20W-50 or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specifications and capacity).
Primary Chain Case Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Primary Chaincase Lubricant or Syn3 (refer to manual for capacity).
Transmission Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Transmission Fluid (Syn3) or Formula Plus (refer to manual for capacity).
Oil leaks from seals (e.g., primary and transmission), carburetor issues (on non-FI models, though this is FI), electrical connector corrosion, regulator/rectifier failure (common to many Harley-Davidsons of this era).
Part Numbers
Oil Filter Part Number:
Harley-Davidson 63731-37B or equivalent aftermarket.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Heritage:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is renowned for its iconic V-twin engines, distinct styling, and a rich history of motorcycle manufacturing and customization.
Model Evolution
Road King Lineage:
The Road King was introduced in 1994 as a revival of classic FL styling, emphasizing comfort and touring capability with a less-faired approach than the full-dress tourers. The 'I' in FLHRC-I denotes fuel injection.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
United States (Milwaukee, Wisconsin and York, Pennsylvania for this era).
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Industry Recognition:
The FLHRC-I Road King is widely recognized for its comfortable ride, classic styling, and touring capability, often lauded in motorcycle enthusiast publications for its enduring appeal.
Ratings
User Ratings:
Consistently receives high user ratings for reliability, comfort, and the quintessential Harley-Davidson riding experience.