🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

FLTR Road Glide

Year:

2009

Model Generation:

Second Generation (2009-2013)

Chassis Code:

FLTR

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The FLTR Road Glide is Harley-Davidson's flagship touring motorcycle, known for its distinctive frame-mounted fairing and comfortable long-distance riding capabilities. This manual serves professional mechanics and dedicated enthusiasts.

Competitors:

Competes directly with other large-displacement American V-twin touring bikes such as Indian Roadmaster, and also with European touring motorcycles like BMW R 1250 RT and Honda Gold Wing in the premium touring segment.

Vehicle Features:

Frame-mounted fairing for reduced steering effort, integrated saddlebags, powerful V-twin engine, comfortable rider ergonomics, advanced infotainment system (for its era).

Target Audience:

Harley-Davidson certified technicians, independent motorcycle repair shops, and knowledgeable DIY enthusiasts who perform their own maintenance and repairs.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service, Repair, Workshop

Secondary Coverage:

Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Overhaul

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 600-800 pages (typical for this type of manual)

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely digital PDF (common for aftermarket sales), potentially printed book format available.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Disassembly, assembly, inspection, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system.

Transmission:

Disassembly, assembly, inspection, lubrication, clutch, gearbox, primary drive, final drive.

Chassis:

Frame, suspension (front fork, rear shocks), steering, wheels, tires, brakes (front and rear).

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition, starting system, charging system, instruments, accessories, ECM, sensors.

Bodywork:

Fairings, saddlebags, seat, handlebars, fuel tank, fenders, fairing support, storage compartments.

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, brake fluid flush, chain/belt adjustment (if applicable), tire pressure checks, battery maintenance.

Repair Procedures:

Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake caliper service, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair, body panel replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts, common problem identification, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized Harley-Davidson tools required for specific procedures.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed specifications, torque values, and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Searchable text, hyperlinked sections likely present in higher quality versions).

Quality:

Varies by source. Official manuals are typically high quality. Aftermarket PDFs can vary in clarity and fidelity.

Binding:

If printed: Perfect bound or spiral bound for lay-flat usability.

Paper:

If printed: High-quality, durable paper suitable for workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Family:

Harley-Davidson Twin Cam 103 (or 96 depending on specific sub-model variant for 2009, typically 103 for touring models)

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, pushrod actuated overhead valves

Displacement:

Approx. 1690 cc (103 cubic inches) or 1584 cc (96 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

For 103: 3.875 in. x 4.375 in. (98.4 mm x 111.1 mm); For 96: 3.75 in. x 4.38 in. (95.3 mm x 111.3 mm)

Compression Ratio:

Typically 9.0:1 or 9.2:1

Horsepower:

Approx. 70-75 HP (at crankshaft, subject to dyno and exact configuration)

Torque:

Approx. 95-100 lb-ft (at crankshaft, subject to dyno and exact configuration)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) – Harley-Davidson's Delphi-based system.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (R+M)/2 recommended

Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson SYN3 (Synthetic) SAE 20W-50 or equivalent motorcycle-specific oil.

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4 U.S. quarts (3.8 liters) with filter change.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

6-speed Cruise Drive manual transmission

Optional Transmissions:

N/A (standard for this model)

Drive Type:

Belt drive (primary) and final drive belt.

Clutch Type:

Hydraulic assist, wet multi-plate clutch.

Transmission Fluid:

Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission & Primary Chaincase Lubricant or equivalent

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 3.5 U.S. quarts (3.3 liters) for transmission and primary.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 98.2 inches (2494 mm)

Width:

Approx. 38.0 inches (965 mm)

Height:

Approx. 53.5 inches (1359 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 63.5 inches (1613 mm)

Dry Weight:

Approx. 780 lbs (354 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 1360 lbs (617 kg)

Fuel Capacity:

6.0 U.S. gallons (22.7 liters)

Saddlebag Capacity:

Integrated, lockable saddlebags with significant storage volume.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

Motorcycles are not typically subjected to standardized crash testing like automobiles. Safety is primarily reliant on rider skill and adherence to traffic laws.

Braking System:

Hydraulic disc brakes front and rear. Brembo calipers typically used. Linked braking system may be present.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature for 2009 FLTR models.

Suspension:

Adjustable front forks and rear air suspension for optimal handling and ride comfort.

Lighting:

Halogen headlight, LED taillight/brake light, turn signals.

Frame Design:

Steel frame and swingarm for robust construction.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM radio with CD player. Some models may have CB radio or intercom preparation.

Display:

Analog gauges for speedometer and tachometer, digital display for odometer, trip meters, fuel level, and gear indicator.

Cruise Control:

Electronic cruise control is standard on FLTR models.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by modern standards. No Bluetooth or smartphone integration in stock configuration. Auxiliary input for MP3 players may be present.

🔧 Maintenance

Initial Service:

Typically around 1,000 miles (1,600 km) - includes oil change, filter replacement, and comprehensive inspection.

Subsequent Service:

Scheduled maintenance typically every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first. Includes oil changes, inspection of critical components.

Major Service:

Every 10,000-20,000 miles (16,000-32,000 km) for spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, and comprehensive system checks. Specific intervals for belt, primary chain, and suspension service detailed in the manual.

Engine Oil Spec:

Harley-Davidson SYN3 SAE 20W-50 Synthetic or equivalent.

Transmission Primary Fluid Spec:

Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission & Primary Chaincase Lubricant or equivalent.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 4 brake fluid (typically for models with ABS, standard hydraulic fluid otherwise).

Fork Oil Spec:

Harley-Davidson recommended fork oil or equivalent (viscosity varies by application).

Common Wear Items:

Clutch plates, wheel bearings, brake pads, fork seals, drive belt wear, starter motor brushes.

Engine Related:

While the Twin Cam is generally robust, potential issues can include cam chain tensioner wear (later models addressed this), oil leaks, and stator failure. Proper maintenance is key.

Electrical Related:

Wiring harness chafing, regulator/rectifier failures, and battery charging issues can occur if not maintained.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer with a rich history of producing V-twin motorcycles for leisure, touring, and law enforcement.

Road Glide Development:

The Road Glide series, introduced in 1980, is distinguished by its frame-mounted fairing, offering superior aerodynamic protection and a more stable feel than fairings mounted to the front fork. The 2009 model represents a significant update with the introduction of the Twin Cam engines and chassis refinements.

Manufacturing Location:

Primary manufacturing location for this model year is York, Pennsylvania, USA.

Model Significance 2009:

2009 marked the introduction of the Twin Cam 103 engine into certain touring models as standard, and the first year for the revised chassis that offered improved handling and comfort. The FLTR Road Glide was part of this evolution.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Specific Awards:

While specific awards for the 2009 FLTR Road Glide are not widely publicized, Harley-Davidson touring models consistently receive high marks for comfort, performance, and rider satisfaction in enthusiast publications and surveys.

Enthusiast Ratings:

Highly regarded by owners for its touring capability, V-twin character, and classic Harley-Davidson styling.

Engine Certification:

Meets EPA, CARB, and DOT emissions and noise standards for the model year.