Positioning:
The Harley-Davidson Road Glide is a premium American touring motorcycle, known for its comfortable ride, robust performance, and iconic styling. This manual targets owners and independent repair shops seeking to perform professional-level maintenance and repairs.
Competitors:
Competes with other large-displacement touring motorcycles such as the Indian Roadmaster, Honda Gold Wing, and BMW R 1250 RT.
Vehicle Features:
Batwing fairing with integrated windshield, infotainment system, comfortable rider and passenger seating, ample storage (saddlebags), powerful V-twin engine.
Value Proposition:
Provides the essential technical knowledge required to maintain, diagnose, and repair the 2015 Harley-Davidson Road Glide, enabling owners to save on dealership service costs and ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, internal components, lubrication system, cooling system (if applicable), fuel injection, ignition system, exhaust system.
Transmission:
Gearbox disassembly, assembly, clutch operation, shift mechanisms, lubrication, troubleshooting.
Drivetrain:
Primary drive, final drive, belt tension, sprocket replacement, bearing checks.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, ignition, lighting, starting system, security system, instrumentation, diagnostic codes.
Chassis And Suspension:
Frame, front fork, rear shock absorbers, steering head bearings, wheel bearings, swingarm, suspension adjustments.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, brake fluid, master cylinders, calipers, pads, rotors, bleeding procedures, ABS (if equipped).
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, throttle body, fuel lines, EVAP system.
Bodywork And Fairings:
Fairing removal and installation, saddlebags, body panels, seat assembly, windshield.
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel removal and installation, tire mounting and balancing, valve stem replacement, tire pressure specifications.
Maintenance:
Routine inspections, oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication, brake fluid flush, spark plug replacement, battery maintenance.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based troubleshooting, error code interpretation.
Repair And Overhaul:
Step-by-step instructions for complete disassembly and reassembly of all major components and sub-assemblies.
Adjustments:
Throttle cable adjustment, clutch cable adjustment, suspension tuning, idle speed adjustment.
Diagnostics:
Use of diagnostic tools, reading fault codes, data stream analysis, sensor testing.
Depth:
Detailed technical specifications, torque values, clearances, tolerances, and procedures for both basic maintenance and complete engine rebuilds.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Twin Cam 103 V-Twin
Displacement:
1690 cc (103 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.875 in. x 4.380 in. (98.4 mm x 111.3 mm)
Horsepower Approx:
Approx. 75 HP @ 5010 RPM (Note: Harley-Davidson typically quotes torque primarily)
Torque Approx:
Approx. 105 ft-lbs @ 3500 RPM
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded premium gasoline, 91 octane or higher recommended
Ignition System:
High-performance, maintenance-free, battery-plagued ignition
Crash Safety:
N/A (Motorcycle specific safety standards apply, no direct NCAP equivalent)
Braking System:
Dual-bending valve front forks, emulsion-technology rear shock; Integrated braking system (optional Reflex Linked Brembo Brakes with ABS).
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED front and rear turn signals, brake lights, and tail lights.
Chassis:
Steel frame and swingarm for rigidity and stability.
Ergonomics:
Designed for long-distance comfort and control.
System Name:
Boom! Box 4.3 Infotainment System
Features:
AM/FM radio, 4.3-inch color touchscreen, USB connection, Bluetooth connectivity, optional GPS navigation.
ABS:
Optional Reflex Linked Brembo Brakes with ABS.
Bluetooth:
Standard for audio streaming and hands-free calling (with compatible devices).
Diagnostic Interface:
On-board diagnostics (OBD) port for dealer-level diagnostic tools, often requiring a specific interface module for access.
First Service:
1000 miles (1600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (includes oil change, filter, inspection).
Subsequent Services:
Every 5000 miles (8000 km) or 12 months for routine checks and fluid changes. Specific component checks at higher mileages (e.g., 20k, 30k).
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 (fully synthetic) SAE 20W-50 or approved equivalent. Capacity: 3.0 US qt. (2.8 L) / 4.0 US qt. (3.8 L) with filter.
Transmission Oil:
Harley-Davidson Synthetic Transmission Lubricant or approved equivalent. Capacity: 24 fl oz. (0.71 L).
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Formula + Transmission and Primary Chain Case Lubricant or approved equivalent. Capacity: 26 fl oz. (0.77 L).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4, HD-4 or equivalent.
Coolant:
N/A (Air-cooled engine)
Common Complaints:
Minor oil leaks from engine seals, potential charging system issues (stator/regulator), clutch cable adjustment needs, infotainment system glitches (less common in 2015 but possible).
Preventative Maintenance:
Regular inspection of all seals, belts, and electrical connections; timely fluid changes; ensuring correct tire pressure.
Manufacturer History:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer renowned for its V-twin engines, custom styling, and strong brand loyalty.
Road Glide Lineage:
The Road Glide platform, known for its frame-mounted fairing, debuted in 1980 and has evolved significantly, with the 2015 model featuring the Project Rushmore updates for improved touring comfort and technology.
Assembly Location:
York, Pennsylvania, USA and/or Kansas City, Missouri, USA
Industry Awards:
Harley-Davidson motorcycles, particularly the touring models, frequently receive accolades for comfort, performance, and rider experience from various motorcycle publications.
Customer Satisfaction:
Generally high customer satisfaction, reflecting the brand's loyalty and product appeal in the touring segment.
Manufacturing Standards:
Manufactured in compliance with US EPA, DOT, and CARB regulations as applicable.