Model Variant:
TLE (Touring Luxury Edition)
Model Years:
2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006
Positioning:
Flagship touring motorcycle, emphasizing comfort, cargo capacity, and long-distance capability for the Harley-Davidson lineup during its production years.
Competitors:
Competed against other large displacement touring motorcycles from manufacturers like Honda (Gold Wing), Indian (Chief), and BMW (K 1200 LT).
Features Tle:
The 'TLE' designation typically signifies a premium touring package, likely including enhanced comfort features, premium audio, cruise control, and extensive luggage options (saddlebags, tour-pak).
Engine:
Engine overhaul, diagnostics, component testing, tuning, lubrication system, cooling system (if applicable), fuel delivery, ignition system
Transmission:
Clutch, gearbox, primary drive, secondary drive, lubrication, adjustments, repair procedures
Chassis:
Frame, suspension (front forks, rear shocks), steering, wheels, tires, brakes (hydraulic systems, calipers, discs, master cylinders)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, battery, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), starting system, ignition system, instrumentation, accessories, diagnostics
Bodywork:
Fairings, saddlebags, fuel tank, fenders, seat, controls, trim, hardware
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, chain/belt adjustment, tire pressure checks
Repair:
Complete disassembly and reassembly of all major components, engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake system repairs, electrical system troubleshooting
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting for common issues, electrical diagnostics
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics
Engine Family:
Harley-Davidson Twin Cam 88 / Twin Cam 96 (depending on year and specific configuration)
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, pushrod actuated overhead valves
Displacement:
1450 cc (88 cubic inches) for early models, potentially 1584 cc (96 cubic inches) for later models within the range. Specific displacement confirmed by VIN.
Horsepower:
Approx. 65-75 HP (actual output varies by year and specific tune)
Torque:
Approx. 78-85 ft-lbs (actual output varies by year and specific tune)
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel Injection (Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection - ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 91-93 octane recommended
Transmission Type:
5-speed manual constant mesh
Optional Transmission:
N/A (5-speed was standard for this model range)
Clutch:
Hydraulically actuated, multi-plate wet clutch
Primary Drive:
Duplex chain, rubber isolated chain drive to clutch
Secondary Drive:
Belt drive
Length:
Approx. 93.9 inches (2385 mm)
Width:
Approx. 35.7 inches (907 mm) at handlebars
Height:
Approx. 55.7 inches (1415 mm) at windshield
Wheelbase:
Approx. 63.5 inches (1613 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 700 lbs (318 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 1160 lbs (526 kg)
Saddlebag Capacity:
Integrated hard saddlebags, capacity varies by design
Tour Pak Capacity:
Optional, adds significant lockable storage
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycles are not typically rated by NHTSA or IIHS in the same way as cars).
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes front and rear. Dual front discs on some models for enhanced stopping power.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on many models within this range.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, dual taillights, turn signals.
Stability Control:
N/A (Not typically equipped on this generation).
Audio System:
Integrated audio system with AM/FM radio, CD player (on many models), and speakers, often controlled from handlebar switches. TLE models typically feature higher-end audio.
Cruise Control:
Electronic cruise control standard on TLE models.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an available option.
Bluetooth:
N/A (Not equipped with factory Bluetooth connectivity on this generation).
Dashboard:
Analog speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, voltmeter, oil pressure gauge, and indicator lights. Often includes a trip odometer and clock.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 2,500 - 5,000 miles or 6 months (refer to specific manual for exact interval based on oil type and riding conditions).
Primary Chain Tensioner Inspection:
Crucial inspection interval, especially for models with the original hydraulic tensioner, often recommended at 5,000-10,000 miles due to potential wear.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 10,000 - 15,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 (Synthetic) or recommended V-Twin specific motorcycle oil (SAE 20W-50 or 10W-30 depending on climate and manual recommendation). Check manual for exact specification.
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ Transmission & Primary Chaincase Lubricant or equivalent V-Twin specific gear oil.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 brake fluid
Primary Chaincase Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ Transmission & Primary Chaincase Lubricant or equivalent V-Twin specific oil.
Primary Chain Tensioner:
Early models (pre-2007) used a hydraulic primary chain tensioner that was prone to wear. Inspection and potential upgrade to an aftermarket manual tensioner or later HD version is common.
Cam Chain Tensioners:
Similar to the primary tensioner, the cam chain tensioners in the Twin Cam 88 can wear out, necessitating inspection and potential replacement, often with improved aftermarket components.
Crank Position Sensor:
Can fail intermittently, leading to stalling or starting issues.
Voltage Regulator Rectifier:
Can fail, leading to charging system problems.
Heritage:
Harley-Davidson is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer with a rich history dating back to 1903, known for its V-twin engines and cruiser/touring motorcycles.
Road King Lineage:
The Road King is a direct descendant of Harley-Davidson's classic touring bikes, evolving from the Electra Glide lineage, emphasizing a more traditional, 'fewer-frills' touring experience compared to the full-dress fairing of other models.
Manufacturing Location:
York, Pennsylvania, USA
Tle Trim Significance:
The TLE trim level was introduced to cater to riders seeking a more complete touring package from the factory, often including features that were previously optional accessories.
Industry Standing:
The Road King has consistently been a highly regarded touring motorcycle, praised for its comfortable ride, classic styling, and V-twin character. It's a staple in the Harley-Davidson lineup and a popular choice for cross-country touring.
Customer Satisfaction:
Generally high customer satisfaction for its intended purpose of comfortable, long-distance touring.
Emissions:
Meets US EPA and California ARB emissions standards for its respective model years.
