Market Position:
Touring motorcycle aimed at long-distance riders seeking comfort, style, and performance. The Road Glide differentiates itself with its frame-mounted fairing, offering superior wind protection and a distinct aesthetic.
Competitive Analysis:
Competes within the luxury touring segment, primarily against other Harley-Davidson touring models and premium offerings from brands like Indian Motorcycle and certain Japanese manufacturers.
Key Features:
Frame-mounted fairing with dual headlights, large windscreen, integrated fairing lowers, ample storage (saddlebags), comfortable rider and passenger seating, powerful V-twin engine, cruise control (often standard or optional).
Coverage Areas:
Full vehicle service, repair, diagnostics, and maintenance
Page Count:
Unknown (Digital PDF, content is comprehensive)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Systems Covered:
Engine (Twin Cam 88), Fuel System (EFI), Ignition System, Transmission, Drivetrain (Primary & Final Drive), Brakes (Hydraulic), Suspension (Front & Rear), Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Components), Frame & Bodywork, Controls, Cooling System (Air), Exhaust System, Wheels & Tires, Instrumentation, Lighting
Exhaust System:
Inspection, repair, and component identification.
Instrumentation:
Gauge function, troubleshooting, and replacement of speedometer, tachometer, and indicator lights.
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication), Engine repair and overhaul, Fuel injection system diagnostics and repair, Ignition system troubleshooting, Transmission inspection and repair, Clutch service, Belt drive inspection and adjustment, Brake system bleeding and component replacement, Suspension fork service, Wheel bearing replacement, Electrical troubleshooting, Wiring harness repair, Body panel removal and installation, Carburetor service (if applicable to specific variants, though this is FLTRI - EFI), Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation and resolution
Tire Replacement:
Proper procedures for tire mounting and balancing.
Battery Maintenance:
Testing, charging, and replacement procedures.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive; covers basic maintenance to full engine rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics, and frame-level repairs. Includes detailed torque specifications, tolerances, and diagnostic flowcharts.
Diagnostic Tools:
Details on using Harley-Davidson's Digital Technician or equivalent diagnostic tools for EFI systems.
Primary Engine:
Harley-Davidson Twin Cam 88 (1450cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.75 in x 4.00 in (95.25 mm x 101.6 mm)
Horsepower Estimate:
Approx. 65-70 HP (at crankshaft, actual may vary)
Torque Estimate:
Approx. 85-90 lb-ft (at crankshaft, actual may vary)
Fuel System:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane recommended
Cooling System:
Air-cooled
Engine Layout:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, pushrod actuated overhead valves
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Constant Mesh
Optional Transmission:
N/A for this model year/variant
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate, diaphragm spring
Primary Drive:
Duplex chain, 34/46 ratio
Final Drive:
Carbon fiber belt, 32/66 ratio
Overall Length:
Approx. 99.5 inches (2527 mm)
Overall Width:
Approx. 38.5 inches (978 mm)
Overall Height:
Approx. 55.5 inches (1410 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 63.5 inches (1613 mm)
Seat Height:
Approx. 27.0 inches (686 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 705 lbs (320 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 1220 lbs (553 kg)
Fuel Capacity:
5.0 US gallons (18.9 L)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 5.1 inches (130 mm)
Saddlebag Capacity:
Approx. 2.5 cu ft total
Safety Ratings:
Motorcycles do not typically receive standardized crash test ratings like automobiles. Safety is inherent in design and rider operation.
Active Features:
Dual front disc brakes, single rear disc brake, responsive suspension, good lighting for visibility.
Passive Features:
Sturdy frame construction, integrated fairing and windscreen for rider protection from elements.
Infotainment System:
Factory-installed radio with cassette player and CB/intercom provisions. Speaker system integrated into the fairing.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control (standard or optional depending on specific FLTRI sub-variant).
Connectivity:
N/A (No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity in the modern sense).
Initial Service:
1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months
Subsequent Service:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (engine oil, primary chaincase oil, transmission oil checks/changes, inspections)
Air Filter Check:
Inspect every 5,000 miles, replace as needed
Spark Plugs Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically around 10,000-15,000 miles
Engine Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson 20W-50 SYN3 (Full Synthetic) or approved equivalent
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4 US quarts (3.8 L) with filter
Primary Chaincase Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson primary fluid or SAE 20W-50 motor oil
Primary Chaincase Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1 US quart (0.95 L)
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 (Full Synthetic) or SAE 85W-140 gear oil
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approx. 24 US fluid ounces (0.7 L)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (for hydraulic clutch and brake systems)
Coolant Type:
N/A (Air-cooled)
Known Issues:
Potential for cam chain tensioner wear (especially early Twin Cam 88), fuel injector o-ring degradation, voltage regulator failures, and primary chain adjustment requirements. Manual provides detailed diagnostics for these.
Brand Heritage:
Harley-Davidson boasts a rich heritage dating back to 1903, known for its iconic V-twin engines, distinctive styling, and a strong community culture.
Brand Philosophy:
Focus on American V-twin tradition, rider experience, and long-term durability.
Model Evolution:
The Road Glide platform, introduced in 1998, established itself as a premier touring model characterized by its frame-mounted fairing. The 2001 model features the Twin Cam 88 engine and fuel injection, a significant technological advancement for Harley-Davidson at the time.
Engine Progression:
The Twin Cam 88 replaced the Evolution engine, offering increased displacement and improved torque delivery, with EFI becoming increasingly prevalent.
Production Years:
The FLTR Road Glide was produced from 1998 onwards, with continuous updates to engine technology, chassis, and features. The 2001 model year is a key iteration.
