🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

Road King Classic

Model Code:

FLHRC

Year:

2009

Touring Platform Generation:

V-Rod and Touring Platform Evolution (post-2008 redesign for Touring)

Vin Engine Prefix:

1HD1

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

American cruiser motorcycle, touring segment, premium segment

Target Audience:

Touring riders, cruiser enthusiasts seeking comfort, style, and long-distance capability.

Key Competitors:

Indian Chief, Victory Vision Tour, Honda Gold Wing (though Gold Wing is a different class of tourer).

Styling:

Classic styling with whitewall tires, wire-spoke wheels, leather-look saddlebags, and chrome accents.

Touring Amenities:

Detachable windscreen, spacious saddlebags, comfortable seating for rider and passenger.

Ride Quality:

Designed for comfortable long-distance cruising, absorbing road imperfections.

📋 Manual Details

Engine:

Engine systems, disassembly, assembly, diagnostics, troubleshooting

Transmission:

Primary drive, transmission, clutch, shift mechanism

Electrical:

Ignition, charging system, lighting, starting system, accessories, diagnostics

Chassis:

Frame, suspension (front and rear), steering, wheels, tires, brakes, bodywork

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injection system (EFI), diagnostics

Exhaust System:

Exhaust pipes, mufflers, catalytic converter, emissions

Comfort Convenience:

Seat, handlebars, fairing, saddlebags, infotainment system (if applicable)

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures, fault codes, common issues and solutions

Specifications:

Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical data

Page Count:

Estimated 600-800 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely printed or PDF (digital download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Management:

Detailed coverage of Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Engine Control Module (ECM) functions, sensor diagnostics, and actuator testing.

Charging Ignition:

Comprehensive details on stator, rotor, regulator/rectifier, ignition module, spark plugs, and troubleshooting ignition timing issues.

Braking System:

Coverage of hydraulic brake systems, caliper service, master cylinder rebuild, bleeding procedures, and ABS (if equipped).

Suspension Steering:

Fork service, rear shock absorber replacement, steering head bearing adjustment and replacement, and wheel bearing maintenance.

Bodywork Trim:

Instructions for removing and installing fairings, fenders, saddlebags, windshield, and decorative trim.

Disassembly Assembly:

Detailed step-by-step procedures for complete engine, transmission, and chassis component disassembly and reassembly.

Preventive Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, drive belt inspection and adjustment.

Diagnostic Testing:

Procedures for using diagnostic tools, interpreting fault codes (DTCs), and testing various electrical and mechanical components.

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete electrical schematics illustrating all circuits, component locations, and wire colors.

Troubleshooting Charts:

Systematic troubleshooting guides organized by symptom to aid in diagnosing and resolving problems efficiently.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from routine maintenance and minor repairs to major engine overhauls and complete system diagnostics.

User Level:

Suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (if digital) or printed book. Searchable text for PDF versions is highly beneficial.

Print Quality:

High-resolution diagrams, clear text, and durable paper for printed versions.

Binding Type:

Spiral-bound or perfect-bound for printed manuals, allowing for lay-flat use in a workshop environment.

Paper Type:

Durable, grease-resistant paper suitable for workshop conditions.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Family:

Harley-Davidson Twin Cam 96

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin

Displacement:

96 cubic inches (1584 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

3.75 in x 4.38 in (95.25 mm x 111.25 mm)

Compression Ratio:

8.2:1

Valvetrain:

Pushrod-actuated overhead valves, 2 valves per cylinder

Horsepower Est:

~65-70 HP (estimated, Harley-Davidson typically quotes torque)

Torque Rating:

92.6 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (according to Harley-Davidson specifications for Twin Cam 96)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) with closed-loop fuel control

Fuel Type:

Premium unleaded gasoline, 91 octane (R+M)/2 minimum

Fuel Tank Capacity:

5.0 U.S. gallons (18.9 L)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed Cruise Drive

Optional Transmission:

N/A (Standard for this model)

Clutch Type:

Clutch Assist, Wet, Multi-plate

Final Drive:

Carbon belt, 142T rear, 32T front sprocket

Transmission Fluid Spec:

Harley-Davidson SYN3 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil (primary/transmission) or equivalent Harley-Davidson approved lubricant.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

93.9 in (2385 mm)

Width:

34.7 in (881 mm)

Height:

63.7 in (1618 mm) (approx. to windshield)

Wheelbase:

63.5 in (1613 mm)

Ground Clearance:

5.1 in (130 mm)

Seat Height:

27.3 in (693 mm) unladen

Dry Weight:

755 lbs (342 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

1260 lbs (572 kg)

Payload Capacity:

505 lbs (229 kg)

Saddlebag Capacity:

Approx. 2.4 cu ft total (leather-look, water-resistant)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

Motorcycles are not typically assigned NHTSA or IIHS safety ratings. Safety is primarily determined by rider skill and adherence to safe riding practices.

Braking System:

Dual front disc brakes, single rear disc brake. Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for 2009 models.

Lighting:

Headlight, tail light, brake light, turn signals, auxiliary passing lamps.

Frame Construction:

Steel frame and front fork, designed for stability and rider comfort.

Tire Specifications:

Front: MT90B16, Rear: MU85B16 (typically wide whitewall tires)

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Am/FM/WB radio with CD player and CB/intercom capability. Likely features 5.25-inch fairing-mounted speakers. May have auxiliary input for MP3 players.

Display:

Analog gauges for speedometer and tachometer, with an LCD display for odometer, trip meters, fuel level, and gear indication.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature for the 2009 FLHRC model.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control system.

Lighting Technology:

Halogen headlight and auxiliary passing lamps for improved nighttime visibility.

🔧 Maintenance

First Service:

1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months (whichever comes first): Oil and filter change, primary chain case lubricant, inspect all critical fasteners, check tire pressure and condition, check brake system.

Subsequent Service:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months: Perform 1,000-mile service items plus inspect clutch operation, inspect front and rear brake pads and discs, check suspension, check spark plugs, inspect all cables.

Drive Belt Inspection:

Inspect drive belt tension and condition every 10,000 miles (16,000 km).

Engine Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson SYN3 Synthetic Motorcycle Lubricant, or SAE 20W50 Harley-Davidson oil.

Engine Oil Capacity:

3.5 U.S. quarts (3.3 L) with filter change

Primary Chain Case Lubricant Type:

Harley-Davidson SYN3 Synthetic Motorcycle Lubricant or Harley-Davidson Primary Chain Lubricant.

Primary Chain Case Lubricant Capacity:

2.2 U.S. quarts (2.1 L)

Transmission Lubricant Type:

Harley-Davidson SYN3 Synthetic Motorcycle Lubricant or Harley-Davidson V-Twin Transmission Fluid.

Transmission Lubricant Capacity:

2.7 U.S. quarts (2.6 L)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Twin Cam 96 Common Issues:

Potential for cam chain tensioner wear (especially earlier Twin Cam models, but addressed in later revisions), oil leaks from primary cover or rocker boxes, and the need for regular clutch adjustment.

Electrical Issues:

As with any complex electrical system, issues with charging systems (stator/regulator) or starter solenoids can arise over time. Wiring harness integrity should be checked in high-vibration areas.

Suspension Wear:

Fork seals can wear, leading to oil leaks. Rear shock absorbers may lose damping effectiveness with high mileage.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Origin:

Founded in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA in 1903. Pioneered the V-twin engine and the cruiser motorcycle segment.

Road King Introduction:

The Road King lineage began in 1994, evolving from the FLHTCU Ultra Classic Electra Glide, focusing on classic styling and comfort.

2009 Updates:

The 2009 model year saw significant updates to the Harley-Davidson Touring platform, including a new frame design for improved handling and comfort, and the introduction of the Twin Cam 96 engine across the range.

Manufacturing Location:

United States (primarily York, Pennsylvania and Milwaukee, Wisconsin)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Motorcycle Awards:

Harley-Davidson motorcycles, particularly the touring models, have historically received numerous accolades for their iconic styling, rider comfort, and enduring legacy. Specific awards for the 2009 FLHRC might be difficult to isolate from broader Touring model reviews.

Customer Satisfaction:

Generally high customer satisfaction for Harley-Davidson touring models due to brand loyalty, comfortable ride, and personalization options.