Positioning:
The 1998 Harley-Davidson FLTRI Road Glide was positioned as a premium touring motorcycle, offering comfort, style, and the iconic Harley-Davidson V-twin experience. It catered to riders seeking long-distance comfort and a substantial presence on the road.
Competitors:
Competed with other American and imported touring motorcycles from brands like Honda (Gold Wing), Indian, and to some extent, certain models from European manufacturers.
Features:
Batwing fairing with integrated fairing lowers for rider protection, large saddlebags for cargo, comfortable seating for rider and passenger, classic Harley-Davidson styling, and the distinctive V-twin engine sound and torque.
Engine:
Comprehensive coverage including engine assembly, disassembly, tuning, diagnostics, and overhaul for the Evolution V-Twin engine.
Transmission:
Detailed procedures for the 5-speed constant mesh transmission, including clutch, gear sets, shifting mechanisms, and lubrication.
Fuel System:
Information on carburetor (likely Keihin CV or similar), fuel lines, fuel pump, and tank.
Electrical System:
Extensive coverage of ignition system, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), lighting, starting system, instrumentation, and wiring diagrams.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system components, hydraulic lines, master cylinders, calipers, rotors, and bleeding procedures.
Suspension:
Front fork (likely 49mm conventional) and rear shock absorber systems, including disassembly, inspection, and fluid replacement.
Frame And Bodywork:
Chassis, frame, fairing, saddlebags, fuel tank, seat, fenders, and associated mounting hardware.
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel bearings, tire maintenance, and specifications.
Maintenance:
Regular maintenance procedures, lubrication points, fluid changes, filter replacements, and inspection schedules.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts and procedures for identifying and resolving common mechanical and electrical issues.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, reassembly, and adjustment.
Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, component testing procedures, and troubleshooting for electrical faults.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and advanced electrical diagnostics. Suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics.
Engine Type:
Harley-Davidson Evolution (commonly referred to as the 'Evo') V-Twin
Displacement:
1339 cc (82 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.496 in x 4.250 in (88.8 mm x 108.0 mm)
Compression Ratio:
8.8:1 (typical for Evo Big Twin)
Cooling System:
Air-cooled
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition (CDI or similar)
Horsepower:
Estimated 60-70 HP (at crankshaft, dependent on tuning and specific model variations)
Torque:
Estimated 85-95 ft-lbs (at crankshaft, dependent on tuning)
Carburetor:
Keihin CV 40mm (likely)
Fuel Capacity:
5.0 US gallons (18.9 L)
Length:
Approximately 95.7 inches (2431 mm)
Width:
Approximately 38.6 inches (980 mm)
Height:
Approximately 54.7 inches (1390 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 695 lbs (315 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically around 1160 lbs (526 kg)
Saddlebag Capacity:
Significant, designed for touring with ample storage.
Certification Standards:
Compliant with applicable safety regulations for motorcycles of its era.
Brakes:
Dual front disc brakes, single rear disc brake.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, taillight, brake light, front and rear turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Steel frame providing a rigid structure.
Fairing:
Provides rider wind protection, reducing fatigue on long rides.
Audio System:
Many 1998 Road Glides featured an integrated fairing stereo system, often with AM/FM radio and possibly a cassette player. Speakers were typically integrated into the fairing.
Cruise Control:
Optional or standard depending on the exact trim level, but a common feature on touring models.
Gauges:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, oil pressure, and voltage. Warning lights for various systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 2,500 - 5,000 miles or annually, depending on usage and oil type.
Primary Chain Tensioner:
Inspection recommended at regular intervals, replacement may be needed based on wear.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, often around 10,000 - 20,000 miles.
Belt Drive Tension:
Check and adjust as per manual specifications, typically at 5,000 mile intervals.
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for specific Harley-Davidson or equivalent V-twin motorcycle oil. Typically SAE 20W-50 or 50W, API CI-4 or similar for diesel rated oils often recommended for older Evos.
Transmission Fluid:
Harley-Davidson transmission lubricant or equivalent. Often a heavier viscosity gear oil.
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Harley-Davidson primary oil or equivalent. Can be a different specification than transmission oil.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 brake fluid (typically, check manual for exact spec).
Fork Oil:
Specific fork oil weight and quantity as per manual (e.g., 15W).
Common Wear Items:
Cam chain tensioner shoes (on earlier Evo models, hydraulic tensioners were introduced later), wheel bearings, brake pads, fork seals, primary bearing seals.
Electrical Gremlins:
As with many motorcycles of this era, electrical connections and grounds can be a source of intermittent issues. The manual is crucial for tracing these.
Carburetor Tuning:
CV carburetors can require periodic adjustments or re-jetting with modifications like exhaust or air cleaner changes.
Heritage:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is renowned for its iconic V-twin motorcycles and its deep roots in American motorcycling culture, particularly in the cruiser and touring segments.
Evolution Series:
The Road Glide line, introduced in the early 1990s, represented Harley-Davidson's evolution into more aerodynamic and integrated fairing designs for touring. The FLTRI is part of the FLT chassis family, which has been a staple for Harley-Davidson touring bikes.
Production Era:
The FLTRI Road Glide was produced throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s, with significant updates and variations over the years.
