Market Position:
Premium Touring Motorcycle
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against other large-displacement touring motorcycles from brands like Honda (Gold Wing), BMW (K-series), and Moto Guzzi in the luxury touring segment. Known for its V-twin character and American touring aesthetic.
Key Features:
Full fairing with integrated fairing lowers, large windscreen, comfortable seating for rider and passenger, ample luggage capacity (saddlebags and tour pack), 5-speed transmission, shaft drive, and the classic Harley-Davidson V-twin rumble.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Chassis, Electrical System, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Braking System, Suspension, Wheels & Tires, Bodywork, Emissions Control, Lubrication System, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Service, Inspections, Component Removal & Installation, Disassembly & Reassembly, Adjustments, Troubleshooting & Fault Diagnosis, Electrical Wiring Diagrams, Torque Specifications, Special Tool Requirements, Overhaul Procedures
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to in-depth engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical diagnostics)
Primary Engine:
Evolution V-Twin (Shovelhead successor)
Engine Displacement:
1339 cc (82 cubic inches)
Engine Configuration:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin
Bore X Stroke:
3.4375 in x 4.25 in (87.3 mm x 107.95 mm)
Compression Ratio:
8.5:1 (typical for this era)
Valve Train:
Overhead valve (OHV), two valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
Approx. 60-70 HP (at crankshaft, estimated for the era)
Torque:
Approx. 70-75 ft-lbs (at crankshaft, estimated for the era)
Fuel System:
Carbureted (typically Keihin Butterfly Carburetor)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition
Length:
Approx. 92.0 inches (2337 mm)
Width:
Approx. 38.5 inches (978 mm) at handlebars
Height:
Approx. 53.0 inches (1346 mm) at windshield
Dry Weight:
Approx. 660 lbs (299 kg)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 700 lbs (318 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 1160 lbs (526 kg)
Saddlebag Capacity:
Integrated, hard-shell saddlebags
Tour Pack Capacity:
Optional rear tour pack with storage compartment
Rear Tire Size:
130/90-16
Wheel Type:
Cast Aluminum Alloy
Wheelbase:
Approx. 63.5 inches (1613 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 5.0 inches (127 mm)
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety is assessed differently than automobiles, primarily through component design and rider skill)
Active Features:
Disc Brakes (Front and Rear), Stable Chassis Design
Passive Features:
Full Fairing (wind protection), Integrated Lighting System
Infotainment System:
Basic analog instrumentation (speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, oil pressure gauge), typically with an AM/FM radio and cassette player integrated into the fairing.
Driver Assistance:
None (This era of motorcycle predates modern electronic rider aids).
Connectivity:
N/A (No Bluetooth or smartphone integration)
Engine Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 2,500-5,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact specification)
Primary Chaincase Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 miles or annually
Transmission Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or annually
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically at 10,000-15,000 mile intervals
Air Filter Cleaning Replacement:
Inspect at 5,000 miles, clean/replace as needed
Engine Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson SAE 20W-50 Motorcycle Oil (or equivalent)
Primary Chaincase Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson Primary Chaincase Lubricant
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Transmission Lubricant (or equivalent)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific recommendations)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3 quarts (2.8 liters) with filter change
Primary Chaincase Capacity:
Approx. 1 quart (0.95 liters)
Transmission Capacity:
Approx. 1 quart (0.95 liters)
Known Issues:
Potential for oil leaks from seals and gaskets, carburetor tuning sensitivity, electrical connectors can corrode over time, starter clutch issues, cam chain tensioner wear (early Evolution engines).
Common Maintenance Tasks:
Checking and adjusting primary chain tension, carburetor cleaning and adjustment, checking and topping off all fluids, inspecting brake pads and rotors, checking tire pressure and condition.
Brand Heritage:
Harley-Davidson boasts a rich heritage dating back to 1903, synonymous with American motorcycling culture, innovation, and iconic V-twin engines.
Model Evolution:
The FXRD represents a significant evolution within Harley-Davidson's touring lineup, incorporating the newer Evolution engine and a more aerodynamic, fully faired design for enhanced comfort and performance compared to earlier models. It was part of the FXR family, known for its good handling characteristics.
Production Years:
The FXRD variant was produced primarily from 1986-1992, with variations and updates throughout its run.
