Harley Davidson Road King - The Good, the Bad, the Ugly review

A brief overview of the good, the bad, the ugly of the Harley Davidson Road King.

[@mikedanaher3413]

I have a 07 Road King. I absolutely love it. One bad thing about Harley is the rear suspension is sub par. A new pair of shocks is definitely on the list of upgrades. I did replace my seat as it was horrible. The Road King is maneuverable, and comfortable to ride long distance with. It’s planted in the twisty’s and has great lean angle yet a generously low seat height.

[@SteveSteve-md6qx]

Me too, I got a Saddle man for my 07 FLHRC. The best seat ever! It cost $1100AUD but was worth every cent.

[@donwaltman4276]

I haven't heard anyone say they wasted money on suspension upgrades for their Harley.

[@michaelmason4143]

Wow at the prices their asking...it should be quality from top to bottom.....but with HD its about the $$$

[@ARA28062]

For 2 up comfort I Have to spend nearly $3000 for ohlins rear suspension upgrade for my RK. It had improved comfort & performance.

[@foketeo]

The more Road Kings videos I watch the more I believe I need one in my life

[@uncleeepi8868]

Me too

[@dcccharles4569]

You won't be disappointed. The 2003 Road King Classic, 100- Year Anniversary Edition, is one of the most elegant, stylish and archetypical Harley-Davidson motorcycles ever made. The Road King is the personification of a Harley Davidson.

[@lairddoran5041]

Same

[@klum6047]

You do not have to disassemble the complete front light to move the bars. Just remove the small aluminum cover above the handle bar riser. Loosen the two exposed hex bolts and move the bars. The compartments on the front crash bars are not original equipment. They are aftermarket junk and therefore the doors snap closed. There are a lot of things you need to learn about the FLHR and when you do, I think you will appreciate how nice the bike actually is. I have had one for 8 years and would not part with it. Nice video, but a bit premature with the negative comments.

[@Road_Rash]

On older Road Kings that cover doesn't just pop off, you'll have to fully disassemble the entire headlight to take it off...

[@abdulazizsaleh9567]

I appreciate your words...it's helping me to decide to buy 2009 or not .. Thanks man👍🏻💯

[@joeblack333]

I got an 06 Road King last week. It's been my dream bike for years, and it's just as great as I'd hoped. I'll never buy another bike.

[@xa5treusx797]

Just got myself an 08 Road King from the harley dealer I work at. Love this thing since I first sat on it!

[@BloodPlusPwn]

Just make sure to change out those spring cam chain tensioners for some hydraulic ones! They usually last but I've also seen em detonate engines as soon as 15k miles. Throw in some gears if you're so mechanically inclined. It's actually very easy to do so long as you can measure the crankshaft runout. It's really important for the runout to be in spec if you switch to gears since they can't flex as much as chains and grinding gears is about as bad as failing chain tensioners haha. I ride an 07 RK myself. They don't call it the king for nothing.

[@geraldprost9254]

You don't have to take apart the whole console to adjust the bars. There is small cover over the bolts, that's it. My Road King is an '09, which I bought new. It now has about 35,000 miles. I have replaced one bulb (the one on the fender), one rear tire and one battery. The tire life is great. Mileage is good. The range on a tank is very good. Fender coverage is great. It is an a super long haul bike. Gerry in Calgary

[@captainamerica1797]

2001 Road King-Mine is 9 screws to get at the four-bolt on the stem. No big deal. No whinning !!!

[@laytonvires2953]

i just purchased a 09 flh with 10,000 miles its gorgeous like my past harleys and their awesome - people just ride what you want not based on people opinions

[@brucecarter6196]

Newer bukes it is easy access to the riser bolts to adjust bars, but on the older Road King you had to take nacelle apart.

[@MrCabledawg45]

Road King is the only Harley I'd buy. Beautiful bikes.

[@4SA904]

Wrath45 i am thinking road king or street glide?!

[@lsmith2129]

road king for ever black and chrome baby

[@dennism103]

U sure u dont wanna pay a additional $6,000. For a GPS and stereo?

[@Viper6-MotoVlogger]

Pretty honest review bro. It's funny how manufacturers can put out some amazing features, and at the same time do things that make you shake your head.

[@nwroadrat]

+vac0002 ~ It's got a few head scratcher's, but every bike I've owned has.

[@48796gbf]

The motorcycle most beautiful in the world Harley Davidson Road King

[@nwroadrat]

+Buxtehude .d ~ Thank you.

[@artmchugh9283]

Buxtehude .d chrome plated air compressor! no thanks

[@comandantestreker]

👍👍👍

[@michaelkrol587]

Get a real bike, CBR all day nigga

[@dennism103]

Ur right

[@Liveharley1]

I just bought a 2022 Road King standard, Because I want to change everything the way I like it. This will be my first bagger. I already changed the handlebars to 18" apes, the lower forks changed to chrome and all cables to chrome. I will be changing out the pipes to true duals, with stretch bags, and a fender extender all lights to LEDs, well you know the drill... to make it so it's one of a kind! Enjoyed the video. PS I wanted a black one but had to wait 4 months till one showed up, that's the bad thing with Harley. take care

[@fireballmalone1]

I always like reviews that come across honest and not like a pure brand loyalty ad. The bike looks pretty amazing. I agree about the side storage compartment "doors" being a bit cheaply done. It would kind of be cool to be able to lock them maybe. I have owned a 67 VW for about 15 years and know the headache of air cooled engines. I've heard one of the best things about a HD is the service departments are always great and accessible, unlike triumph that seem to be disappearing every day. Camping season is upon us. Ride safe man.

[@nwroadrat]

+fireballmalone1 ~ You'll be seeing this guy out for some camping here in another month or so.

[@ToddSloanIAAN]

I sure do understand a lot of you thinking. It was great when you pulled open that glove 6:22 box

[@CharlesMirts]

I just got a 2012 Road King Classic.........10,000 miles.......Love it......Great ride so it will be my "Forever Bike"....

[@coloradogrownHD]

I just picked up a 2007 road king with 20k on it. Love it and can wait till all my new parts come in.

[@jerryhelm5118]

A hard clutch is a good sign ...beautiful machine bro..🤙

[@kittycorner8526]

It's 10/14/2024 and I just discovered your video. I've owned 5 HD's: an '08 FLHTC, an '08 FXDWG, an '08 FLHR, a 2010 FLHTCU, and a 2011 FLHTK. I'm retired and in my 70's, and I want to replace my FLHTK with an FLHR. The bike you show in your video is a former police bike, so it might have slightly hotter cams than civilian models. It also has a painted headlight nacelle, tachometer, easy-open saddlebags, and lower fairings, that usually have a tether cord, which appears to be missing from your bike. Harley offers a variety of upgrades for the covers that will make them more secure. One of your exhaust pipes goes underneath the frame, so it was likely built in 2009 or later. The rear shocks on HD Touring models are air-adjustable, with a Schroeder valve between the left saddlebag and the frame. You must only inflate them with a low-pressure hand pump. NEVER use a high-pressure pump as it will quickly blow out your suspension seals, which will be expensive to replace. Your Harley dealer probably has "free" accessory catalogs, which will show you hundreds of ways to customize your bike, and spend lots of money. They don't make the standard Road King anymore, so hang onto it and take good care of it. Ride safe!

[@arthurramalho778]

Just an advice, you should inspect the cam tensioner. 2006 and older should be done with 30,000 miles, later bikes even with the hydraulic system, should be done around 45k. Nice bike good feeling but requires maintenance.

[@diegoescudero3094]

Your helping big Arthur !!

[@RaimundasVerikas]

Right and put ss carb that I jecttoins mess up.

[@goodboyringo9716]

You don't have to take the whole front housing apart to adjust the handle bars. Take out the head light and frame not hard, unscrew the small chrome strip on top of the head light housing. Then unsnap the plastic around the front end key lock where two screws unscrew them. pull the cover there is the handle bar bolts. As for the clutch being hard to pull (not for me ) Harley sells a clutch part thats in the trans cover (easy to put on) it reduces clutch pull 40% Don't cry just ride!

[@IamTheGoatstroker]

I've got a RK Classic and I love it. Absolutely agree about the gauges, I wish they were more "heads-up." I could probably find a nit pick here and there, but overall I love this bike. Very easy to manipulate for such a large bike. It's more nimble than one might guess. Time for me to quit watching videos and go for a ride! Peace

[@nwroadrat]

+Jerry G ~ The balance and handling on this big bike is almost artwork. Thanks for watching.

[@maxeyac]

Its simple to adjust your clutch. Many videos on KZbin. You can make your clutch an easier pull in 20 minutes max.

[@hobbeeswe7472]

Just a really great walk through for a potential buyer, thanks!

[@Supermankev2001]

What year is your Road King? I am interested in Buying a Road King I ride an Electra glide now. I love the look of the Road King I was looking at new ones. Did you add the lowers or were they on when you bought it? Yours has the tach on the bars ses to me that was a police bike also the puck openers on the bags are only put on police version. Thanks for your thoughts and review.

[@moshfreak900]

I own a 2014 CVO Road King. I have never regretted buying it. I'm keeping it until the next CVO Road King comes out

[@charlesdigennaro4981]

Look at videos of slow riding and turning in the friction zone. Rear brake is a must! I have an 04 roadking and I love it

[@bgyako]

That tack by the windshield is an indication this is a police model.

[@JL-ek2ks]

This is not an aftermarket intense it's the same tach that's been on Police Road Kings since their inception 20 years ago.

[@sstroh08]

The saddle bags having the knobs on the top is another police bike sign too.

[@davidspin581]

Tach not tack, red switches and hockey pucks on saddle bags.

[@mikeno7701]

FLHP, I have this same bike, 2009. Also the hockey pucks on the saddle bags tells you it is a Police Edition. I did not hear him say the engine size but I would guess it is a 103 cu in, that is what mine is. I have put the K&N intake with Power Commander V , true duals by V&H with V&H 4 1/2" Ovals along with touring pack.

[@Apache-pp9ok]

Thank you

[@someloozer2573]

a big yeah..on the abs..if I hadn't of had abs I wouldn't be making this comment. .something I just learned also..if you have to use abs in a emergency stop ..slam them on hard ..the bike will do the rest..

[@nwroadrat]

Based on that experience, you should change your name to "Some winner," or "Second chance." Thanks for stopping in!

[@Jesse-B]

"Soft office work" crackup man, great report, I got a 99

[@trentdawg2832]

I gotta 99 too, I converted it to a road glide though. ...

[@Nifilheimur]

Just bought a 2000 mod RK classic today and rode it for a bit. Clutch is quite heavy but manageble and i actually found the rear brake to be really good. One of the best ive tried infact. Maybe mine is unusually good, dont know. I Love this bike

[@texdakota]

I have an 03 and hated not being able to adjust or change my bars easily. There's an after market plate you can replace the stock plate with that covers the bars that has holes for risers to fit through. So you only need to take that mess of a headlight assembly apart once to add risers so it's much easier to change or adjust the bars. I've changed my bars probably 4 times in the past 6 years or so...definitely a good idea to add risers on these bikes if you like to play with different style bars like I do.

[@wongfou]

I own a 110CU CVO and one of the differences is a hydraulic cluch. I

[@Bradington]

I'm glad they decided to make this upgrade standard on the '17 touring bikes!

[@jimg5006]

What is that tank bag? I have a new Road King Special and a trip to Yellowstone coming up. I cannot seem to find a tank bag to fit.

[@Road_Rash]

This Road King is a Police model...you can tell by the way the bags open...that means that tachometer is in the stock position...it's the only Road King that came with a tachometer...the lower fairings on the crash bar/engine guard are cheap aftermarket add ons...that's why they have snaps...

[@FreedomRider223]

My 2 cents: I have a 2010 Police version. #1 DO NOT EVER SAY LIQUID COOLED! Air cooled is the most iconic thing and why I have stuck with Harley over the years. In fact Ive had couple of air cooled German cars too! If you want liquid cooled, you came to the wrong house! #2) I agree with you the meter is hard to read on the gas tank. Previous bike I had were all handlebar mounted. Much easier to read while driving. 3) I agree about the kickstand. It feels like it should go forward more but if you look at the design, when you lean it over, it locks but It feels like it wants to fold the drop over, although 90 degrees to the frame is optimal. I know what you're sayin there. 4) the clutch, on my bike is the smoothest easiest clutch lever I've ever had on any bike! This bike has literally spoiled me! Mine is like butta! If you think its too hard, there may be something wrong with yours. 5) you mentioned braking. Ive heard others say they never use the rear brake too. Thats just fucking insane! Who taught anyone to ride only using the front brake!? Thats the most ridiculous thing Ive heard (not aiming at you, Im talking people in general that have said they never use the rear brake!?) Not only do I ALWAYS use both brakes but also always apply the REAR FIRST! The pedal on the RK took some getting used to but that's just cuz I came from a bike that had a lever not a pedal. Now I like the pedal because most of the time, its up out of your way when riding. You just have to get used to where it is when you need it. Aside from those points, this bike has literally spoiled me! Smooth as butta yet nimble. Please go back, edit your video and REMOVE that part where you mention "liquid cooled!" Thank you.

[@FreedomRider223]

ok one more thing.... in bright sunlight, its near impossible to see the tiny signal indicators on the dash! I wish they were bigger, brighter and forward more so you don't have to look down to see if your signal is still on! -- this still does not excuse you from considering liquid cooled! ;)

[@nwroadrat]

The game has changed with the M8 release and frame updates. Unless air is restricted from flowing over the engine like the Electra and Ultra Glides, the engine can get back to air cooling and you can avoid the "groin roast". I've since had the clutch worked on and it's corrected. Thanks for stopping in. Old review now, but shows the improvements the new version of the RK and what it offers.

[@MegaMikeArnold]

Dude, you need to know that the front brake should precede the use of the rear brake in virtually all circumstances, even if it's engaged just slightly before the rear is applied. Trailing braking not withstanding, there's a MSF course near you with your name on it. Ride smart and you'll ride as safely as possible.

[@dennism103]

Ppl that have road kings luv them

[@wrgumaer]

Yes we do

[@philipstaite4775]

Thanks for the real-world review. I'm looking at getting back into riding after ... "a few years off" Looking for something I can do a rural commute on but also take off for a 400 mile day (or two) in reasonable comfort. I'm thinking the Road King may fit that middle ground.

[@nwroadrat]

+Philip Staite ~ Glad you liked, do test ride!

[@pktech1969]

+Philip Staite I just got back into riding after 7 years. I had a vtx 1300 and now I just picked up a Road King Classic and absolutely love it. Comfortable ride, great presence. Cannot recommend it enough. 2004 with only 4600 MIles on it. My advice....GO FOR IT !

[@Seymour5575]

nice honest video by the way what was your last bike and why did you switch to a Harley road king.

[@nwroadrat]

Triumph Thunderbird...the RK had better storage capacity and how well it road.

[@Seymour5575]

thanks.

[@5664788]

I think a good bike for you would be the Harley Muscle but with all the road king accessories,...different riser bars,...& extra lights all around.,..large windshield,..then you really got something up your ally,..... Its has the liquid cooled,.. you want & power galore,..& alot of it. You may pull up a vid of the muscle & say no way,..but if you can imagen the muscle with all the king after market,..you would love it! Ive got one & im not a road trip guy but ive seen vids with saddle bags & extras & it starts to look much like the road king,...but better. that a very nice bike you got though.,..ride safe.

[@ezzatmohamed3699]

Thx for the video, i never had a bick before and a friend of mine his brother got the road king 2006 for 6k , do u think its good price and good for beginner ?

[@nwroadrat]

Considering the high cost of everything now, if he got it in good condition I think its a great deal. 👍

[@ezzatmohamed3699]

@@nwroadrat alright, I appreciate you.

[@rossisrael75]

This is a beautiful baby! I just bought one! I can't wait to take it on the road! And I got a black, too. Lmao

[@lsmith2129]

add lots of chrome they get even better

[@zeerozeero243]

I have a 2019 Road King and love everything about it .

[@klum6047]

To quickly adjust the handle bars, just remove the small cover above the riser bolts and you can access the the two top riser bolts. It just pops off. Loosen the two top hex bolts and the bars will move. The cover is removable for that reason. No need to go into the headlight. Cheers.

[@Road_Rash]

On older Road Kings you can't just pop the cover off, you have to disassemble the headlight to get that cover off...

[@davidtarver9293]

On my 2016 you have to remove the headlight and the thin trim that runs across the top ... It exposes the screws for that cover and then you can remove the screws and access the allens to loosen bars

[@jamesstorey7270]

Have a 05 Softail deluxe and a. 2013 Road King. Both trouble free with just general maintenance performed. 78,000 on the Soft tail and I'd take off cross country and be certain I'd make my destination.

[@buckdoe9828]

The clutch is harder because it's a POLICE bike !

[@scootergeorge9576]

How is the cornering clearance? How far can you lean it over in a turn. On many Harley Davidson models a moderate lead causes metal to meet pavement.

[@nwroadrat]

Hi George, It's not hard to scrape the floor boards.

[@knot289]

What's the hokey puck looking things on the bags?

[@alreddog]

I had a 250 scooter and I I see that they have a 650 Burgman I wanted to get one till I seen the price it was ridiculous for scooter I I admit taking it on the expressway would be a blast then I got to looking and found out you can get a used Harley-Davidson like this for 6000 7000 to 8000 a real motorcycle that looks like a motorcycle not a crotch rocket for the price lower than a scooter what's resale value will be like 3 Grand so one of these days I'm going to get a real motorcycle not a scooter and this video was a very good video I've been looking at Harley-Davidsons now for about a year probably end up by one in the winter time when they cost less good video

[@geezersgarage8181]

Did you know that you have a cop bike ? The red switches and “hockey pucks” on the saddlebags are a dead giveaway. I have a 2000 RK and can access the handlebar pinch bolts by removing the plastic cover over the fork lock and removing two screws and the chrome housing comes right off.

[@kalkvand]

If they did that with other cooling than air it wouldnt sound like a Harley

[@marcroche9324]

Twin cam chain tensioner replacement every 30k costs about $700 shop fee. This was a common issue.

[@motocyklowywagabunda7038]

Replace it once with hydraulic preferably from S&S or Fueling and don't touch it for 40 to 50 k and even if you have to replace anything it will be just shoe for tensioner not the whole tensioner.

[@Jisstifer83626]

For the 88, they fixed it with the 96 and on.

[@johnjoe2989]

$65 if I do it myself at home.

[@nwroadrat]

I haven't heard of a cam chain tensioner failure in years. More than one manufacturer uses them now.

[@onlyhereonce7290]

A solid review !. Well put together and informative. One question. what are the red switches on the left handlebar ? I've never seen red switches on a Harley.

[@nwroadrat]

+Richard Enstad ~ They're the handgrips for first responder bikes; police, fire, rescue, etc. A bit more visible and probably not as aesthetically pleasing as standard model grips.

[@onlyhereonce7290]

Thanks. And now I know.

[@jimmyhunt9081]

Ride daily, That clutch will disappear after a couple weeks

[@grren1782]

besides sportsters I've ever heard of a clutch going out before 50k

[@janman55]

Having to haul it in a couple times for primary bearing and compensator repair is what scares me about purchasing a used Harley. They all have potential for serious engine and drive train problems, Even at relatively low milage. They talk about Harleys getting such high milage, but don’t mention the amount of repairs/ rebuilds it takes to get there. Looking at older used Harleys in the classifieds, I rarely see high milage ones. Most are in the 10k to 30k range. Where are all the high milage ones??? Makes me wonder.

[@charlesdigennaro4981]

I bought mine with 45 k on it. Had the chain tensioner done right before I bought it. Runs like a raped ape. You eventually have to spend money on any machine.

[@willyb933]

Great looking bike! Sounds like overall you are happy with it. Thanks for sharing!

[@nwroadrat]

+willyb933 ~ So far, I'm very pleased.

[@WTDOOR63]

The clutch on my 02 RK classic is not for the weak! Lol

[@62RedRider]

Check out Burly Easyboy Lite Clutch for H-D big twins. An inexpensive mod that will cut the clutch pull by 50%. Part # B17-117.

[@RoadKen53]

Twin Cams were designed to have failures. It keeps the yuppie bikers paying for service and repairs that the Evos don't need like the cam chain tensioner and all the sensors... '95 Road King owner for 15 yrs with 241k on the clock. EVOS FOREVER!

[@nwroadrat]

+Ken Doe ~ 241k?! That's awesome. Question...if Twin Cams were designed to have failures, shouldn't they then have valve adjustments? Every bike I have owned seems to need more maintenance than an auto.

[@RoadKen53]

+nwroadrat, ask yourself, why did Harley redesign a bullet proof engine into one that is chain driven for the cams and the seven sensors for the engine and if just one fails the whole engine is disabled and has to be towed for repair. It's how Harley kept from closing their doors. I've ridden Harley's for about 40 years and I'm a Harley Mechanic and have owned many Harley's and when I started working on the 'Great New Improved Twin Cam' I thought what has Harley done? Their first year of Twin Cam was a pile of shit with the cam bearing failures which Harley picked up the warranty on which cost them dearly. They were only getting up to 20k miles on some of engines before cam bearing failure. The Twin Cam was supposed to be introduced in '97 but had major overheating issues and stalled the introduction of it for two years and still has the overheating issue to this day. My Evo runs at between 190 to 210 degrees in 110 degree weather while the Twin Cam can run between 245 and 265 degrees side by side with my Evo. I have a shit load of friends with the TC engines and they complain about how much heat comes off the engine. Do yourself a favor and read Evo vs Twin Cam engines. I've done 3 top ends on my Evo and one bottom end in 241 thousand miles and never so much as a hiccup with it. It's is ready for a new long block because the last top end, the cylinder studs pulled out of the cases which means the lower unit is at the end of it's useful life. So I'll ride it until the lower end fails, and I ride it hard. One more thing, Porsche engine designers were hired by Harley to help them develop the the longevity of the Evo engine..I you get a stock low mile Evo engine and put the Screamin Eagle heads with a Harley recommended cam in it, you'll have one fast dependable bike. My old '95 Road King stayed up with a friends '07 Ultra 96" 6 speed with no problem.. TC only has a 4 " stroke stock and Evo stock out of the box is 4 1/4" stroke which make a big difference... Motorcycles should never be compared to cars!

[@nwroadrat]

+Ken Doe ~ This is my first HD. So far, even with the short comings I still like the engine. Interesting and good to know info. ty

[@RoadKen53]

+nwroadrat, keep a good oil maintenance schedule on all three units, engine, transmission and primary and you should be good. If you can, use Amsoil which will actually lower your operating temperatures by at least 10 degrees. Take care of your 'Baby'!

[@Jllucky8]

What do you think about the new Milwaukee 8?

[@ST0RMBRINGR]

So how does the Road King size up against the Thunderbird. Any preference? I currently ride a Vulcan 900 but I've considering either the Road King or Thunderbird as my next bike

[@nwroadrat]

If you're referring to the Triumph Thunderbird, it's a bit more sporty and comes equipped with foot-pegs. It competes closer to the HD soft-tail frame bikes. The HD touring models like the RK come default with floorboards. Both good bikes but different tools. For long trips, I prefer the RK and it gets all the good accessories. There's also rumor the Thunderbird line may be discontinued or at minimum not available for all countries. Regardless, that could be leverage for a discount. They now have little resale value anyway used.

[@mikelok818]

ive rode a suzuki intruder it has more power but my road king feels like a caddillac

[@mikelok818]

i was a Harley hater til i rode a few now i understand

[@CATmanATL22]

The reason that bike has tachometer is because it was a police motorcycle. They are the only road Kings came with attack otter on the handlebars. Somebody has modified it quite a bit because it didn’t start out with that kind of seat on it and the tank badge tells you it is a motorcycle. Is the red switch on the handle and the way saddlebags open, they put a S&S air cleaner on it

[@1AXMRDR]

It's a police model, explains the tach. Roadkings are the most versatile bikes. Remove or add a batwing or windshield in seconds, tourpack is easy add on and the bags actually look good on this model. Little bit nit picky?

[@f-sixer3939]

Thats a used police bike. The saddlebag openers, tach, lower fairings, grips highway pegs, brake pedal, saddlebag guards and fender trim are all added on after the fact. You should check to see if it still has the police ignition module.

[@nwroadrat]

+Tom C ~ Police ignition module? If there, am I getting something good? (-:

[@f-sixer3939]

I'm no expert or HD mechanic, but I'll share what I've been told. I bought a 2002 FLHT cop bike once and this is what the dealership mechanic said... Police ignition modules are more robust because cop bikes are typically turned off and on a lot more than civilian bikes in an average day. It also allows cops running radar to be parked on the side of the road with the engine off (air cooled engines get really hot at idle) and then start up quickly to chase a speeder. The police ignition module is ONLY available to police officers or police departments. Now, if you have one on your bike already and it happens to fail, you can get another if you send the old one back to HD. But, you couldn't just order one off the shelf. As a very robust component, its obviously more desirable. Most used bike dealers are ignorant of the fact that the bike may have the module already on the bike. Again, I'm only passing along what I was told. Perhaps someone else could weigh in. By the way, beautiful bike!!

[@darkhelmetsplane]

That's a cop bike! There have been a lot of mods already done to it... seat, intake, etc.

[@pjboudwin2730]

ok on some of the stuff just so you know is not standard to the road king you have a police road king that was put back on the street for civilian use that's why you have a rim gage the side pockets on the crash bar and little caps on the saddlebags and the kickstand is less forward and such a tight clutch but you also have a little more kick in throttle then normal

[@trackerbuckmann1627]

I've never been on an air cooled engine before. I ride in some pretty arid areas. very hot conditions. Should I be worried about over heating?

[@nwroadrat]

You bet. There's aftermarket products to help.

[@johhnyo]

I would not worry about it at all..I have a sport touring bike that is air cooled and have never had a problem..The Yamaha V Stars are also air cooled and they are for a reason..the retro look like a harley and they also have no problems

[@trackerbuckmann1627]

Jeff McLean it did get hot enough in Texas to melt the reflectors near the exhaust pipe despite having a heat shield. It scared the living shit out of me when I smelled that sizzling. That was an especially hot day. I'm in northern new mexico now and it's fucking amazing weather. I did get hailed on once and that sucked. I was trying to protect the paint and my nuts are the same time. Fortunately I had all my gear on and no damage that I can see. The after market oil coolers don't change the look too much, not like a big radiator. I'm still considering it, but at the same time I might relocate. The only problem here is the short ass riding season. Anyways, I'm loving my Harley. It's an amazing machine!

[@johhnyo]

actually I should have mentioned that my bike has air and oil cooling just no water cooling so the oil probably helps.because some days believe it or not up here in canada it was getting up to 107F out and the bike was fine.

[@MrKing1961]

Road King is a beautiful bike, I have a street glide and a Road king ,Harley make good looking bikes with a Garbage suspension, the suspension still is from the 1903, ride safe😁

[@KrazyKoolNYer]

Good review, glad to see you are enjoying the bike, but was amazed to hear you had to bring the bike in for service a few times.would you say the pros out weights the cons for the bike?

[@nwroadrat]

+Krazy Kool NYer ~ We'll see over time. I think the prior owner (bike is used) skipped service intervals like many do. Despite being barely two years old, it was ridden hard and had a lot of miles on it. I'm in charge of the service now and I never skip anything on a MC. And later if I'm dissatisfied with anything, I have no problem changing this bike out for something else.

[@jjayallan]

Great review👍🏽Please review the Milwaukee 8 ROAD KING, and the liquid cooled model👍🏽🏁

[@shaverlocal]

lube the clutch cable and it will feel like butter. I just did mine.

[@djfreetibet1682]

What year has the automatic valve adjustment

[@Greengulchleaves]

Did the Road King Police edition come with an alarm system, or is that aftermarket?

[@spacetruckin6555]

Still have it?

[@wrgumaer]

How do you like the ss carb

[@bluidog2]

You can never go wrong with an RK. Nice 👍

[@mikebigeasyrider]

My compensator went bad, under warranty repair, less than 15k on the speedo, you didn't mention ..the handlebars, to me , how comfortable they are . Yes, the speedo and , my tach below speedo are in bad location. But overall an extremely comfortable and nimble bike to ride.

[@nwroadrat]

+Mike BigEasyRider ~ Your right, the handlebars are almost perfect for this bike. Triumph did that to my tach on my last bike. Why even waste the money putting one on if there going to put it so far out of viewing. Thanks for watching and if you have any tips for me with this bike, please share.

[@mikebigeasyrider]

+nwroadrat On thing, a driver backrest, for longer rides it makes for a much more comfortable and enjoyable ride, I us mine mostly for longer rides, not local stuff.

[@nwroadrat]

+Mike BigEasyRider ~ I may look into one. Thank you!

[@EarlGuyton425]

People lose track of why they do things. If people need stereos and leg fairing and water cooling and saddle bags and fuel injection, why dont they just buy a CAR? The original fun of the motorcycle was SIMPLE such as the 1960s honda dream or your bare bones harley which had no chrome at all. Its the wind in your face and the fun. But if you start adding chrome and computer electronics and OBD read outs and all these additive, why not just buy a CAR? I own a 2002 softail harley that is a 1450 and has the long seat and is longer than the road king. It has all the engine and promary and fork chrome, but if it didnt have the chrome I wouldnt care. I ride it for FUN and fun doesnt mean wild. FUN can mean riding 30 MPH on the main avernue. But if i added all this saddle bags and junk I wouldnt be able to love seeing the design of the bike. If you added a big sqaure box with a lid to a models butt and large boxes with lids on both sides of her hips she wouldnt exist any longer. It is not against any law to own a car and a pickup and a harley. It is not necessary to build my harley up to that of a car. What comes next? A roof? And why do you say it needs water cooling? No it doesnt. Water cooling os just more that can go wrong, PLUS if a hose ever breaks you can be disfugured for life and this isnt necessay. A V town air and oil cooled will only get too hot if you sit and let it run in the heat, but why would any fool do that? Shut the engine off. No harley V twin will over heat unless the rider is like some old woman and sits in a traffic jam at idle. If my harley had water cooling I WOULD GET RID OF IT. And when I need to go buy a case of gatorade I dont need saddle bags because I can use my 2002 ford f150 supercrew. This way when I do ride my harley its FUN and bare bones and you can see this beautiful contoured machine Bike owner ship by the novice today is based on if the passenger car was never invented. WHY? A motorcycle is for pleasure/leisure, NOT as if its the only means. Now enjoy that road king and alternate between that and your car

[@nwroadrat]

Touring bikes come with accessories. Your talking about other bikes (more basic ones) i'm not even covering here. HD has liquid cooling on 4 of their models, and twin-cooled (partial) on some touring models and that will probably be migrated to all models on their touring frame. You're too late. Also, if your in town or in stop-go traffic, you don't get a choice about it sitting and running in the heat.

[@EarlGuyton425]

These extras you speak of that take away from the basic to the touring model is still building a motorcycle up to that of a car. So why not drive the damn car? If I cannot ride a motorcycle for fun I DONT WANT IT. My two supercrew fords and doge ram have liquid cooled, so why is it necessary to build my harley up to being as a car? And why do you get in traffic jams? Take to the shoulder and avoid this stupidity in the first place. Actually you own the wrong motorcycle. HD wants to make more money and compete with the other brands out there. I am not too late as you state on anything. Too late for what?? Too late to have fun and must sit in traffic jams? If life is mostly traffic jams dont use the bike because you arent enjoying riding it. Why would the fool choose a motorcycle so they sit in traffic jams? As in why wear a speedo and ride in the snow? If people want to take the fun away and keep building a bike up to a car then the motorcycle will no longer exist, you will just have a two wheeler car. My HD softail is longer than your road king and isnt loaded with junk and is FUN and if I need AC and water cooling and radiators ill use the damn car. I could enjoy that road king you have as well, some people take off all those saddle bags and ride those and enjoy them. They are actually SMALLER bikes than my softail once you get the junk off of them. Youre more suited for a honda gold wing which is a car on two wheels. You dont make unnecessaries complex in life as adding a breathing resperator to your microwave and electric an opener, Lets say we are the old character Bronson in the 60s sitcom and we inherited a harley or triump and were broke and lived in some shed and that was our only means and I needed to go buy meats once per week and cook on the camp fire, then I would take this bike and make three cargo boxed to put on the bike for this being this was the only means. But why live this harder retarded existense when you can also own a car? Find yourself guy and quit making yourself miserable. Back in the 60s people had a blast scooting around on the honda dream. It was called american fun and when they had a harley it was bare bones with a Vtwin and was FUN. So what you have is a BUILD A CAR PROJECT when the car was already invented. Why do you want to manuevor all that junk around everytime you want to go for a ride and theres so much plasctic JUNK you cant even see the motorcycle? It actually looks stupid because the realm of reality is the smallest car on the road and plastic boxes out on the road. People dont see this ignorance as it is because they are tranced to see it a adding and making better towards what it is not

[@nwroadrat]

Earl Guyton No one can predict when a traffic jam is going to happen, and many places the shoulder is illegal to ride to drive in.

[@upup209]

I need the saddle bags to house my cpap machine for overnight stays, and clothing and shoes.

[@derrickcouts]

I'm 6ft 5 is and I want a Harley so is this a good one for my height because the street rod 750 is too small

[@nwroadrat]

Yes, but a stock seat probably won't be comfortable as it sits you closer to the tank. A seat that sits you further back will probably be of interest to you. The street rod is too small for me also, and I'm even shorter.

[@garyanderson1378]

on my 2012 ultra and my 16 street glide on rear brake I use my toes .Not hard to push

[@darkninja67]

agreed with the speedo location. Gauges should be grouped together where you can see them. Suzuki does this with some Boulevards and I think the Yamaha V-Max has an info screen on it't tank. Nice review and video though, thank you.

[@sstroh08]

The gen 2 vmax has its speedo on the forks, it is actually a tach but it has a LED readout that says the speed built in, the tank dash screen says fuel level, oil press, water temp, the time, air temp, what gear your in, things like that, the gen 1 vmax has the speedo/odo only on the forks and on the tank is the tach and water temp, and some idiot lights for oil press, fuel low, neutral, turn signal, and brights

[@JL-ek2ks]

Again this is a Police bike that's why the tach is where it is. The Tach isn't located on a separate pod like that on a standard road king.

[@johhnyo]

to be honest..on a crusier they are so relaxed and slow you don't even need a tach..you can hear the engine revs..its like music..but on a sport bike different story

[@charleycavanaugh5414]

I would you should try to have them adjust the Clutch for you .

[@sheddski2942]

YUP IT SURE IS I HAVE ONE EVEN THOUGH IT'S A 2006 IT'S STILL A BEAUTY

[@joeblack333]

I just got an 06 last week and I agree. Beautiful bike and a great ride.

[@ronaldbrashears9866]

U should say what Year RK this is

[@79FatStrat]

Love the S&S air cleaner!

[@lisar3006]

The key is where Harley had the key for 70 years now they put it bad in the correct place. Just sold my 2001 FLHRCI Road King and my 2002 FLSTC. I only have my 1972 FLH and my 18 98 FLSF Fat Boy . I don't like the electronics on the newer Harley's I do my own work and I don't need a computer to work on the bikes I have left. The Road king may be my favorite post Shovelheads.

[@the.friendly.misanthrope]

Late to the party, but if anyone sees it and wonders. The sidestand usually locks under load on Touring Harleys. So it simlpy can't fold in on you while the Bike stands on it.

[@XxSOTCxXxQSxXxCLANxX]

My problem with abs is if you have one bike with abs and one without it you could get into the habit of using to much brake and the hop on the bike without it you could instinctively slam on the brakes because you're used to having abs

[@gghostrrider]

You have most likely triggered the security system, but if you don't have a siren it just flashes the lights. Leave the fob inside and put the bike upright, you should see the lights flash

[@nwroadrat]

+gghostrrider ~ Thank you.

[@IamTheGoatstroker]

+nwroadrat Alao a siren is very easy to add to this buke yourself, Radioshack has the piezo siren for about $6, they offer a military discount on that, and the install takes no special tools at all. There are videos on youtube.

[@nicholasmapes]

The reason they put the speedo on the tank is because that was where it was on the older bikes. I'm sure someone makes a relocation kit. Make it your own dude!

[@nathancurtis3460]

What handlebars are those?

[@nwroadrat]

For the RK, stock.

[@jbirdperez6003]

breakin the law breakin the law . . . strainght fishtails.. 21' front wheel ..18' ape hangers on a roadking the most comfortable thing you could put on your bike . .so relax, you hang from the bar hahah! and who cares ... most people don't see that . haha ! i love Apehanger ! ! favoite up grade.. lot of fun man

[@moorshound3243]

I love that tune "breakin the law"

[@gonzosc1]

good review, I just got my first HD this year but I got a used one. 07 RK classic with 20k on it. of corase I knew nothing about HD's and I am disappointed with the 07. I hope they fixed the bugs with the newer models. the heat on the 07 RK is insane, almost unridable. people tell me that its a big v twin and all have a lot of heat. this is not true! I have Yamaha raider 113 air cooled also and theres almost no heat compared to my RK. sitting in traffic on the Yamaha is no problem, the auto shut down (20 minutes) will kick in before I even think about turning it off myself. the 07 RK, you can't sit on it more then 5 minutes before your balls feel like popcorn kennels getting ready to bust..lol not downing HD's just yet but theres no reason not to have more modern machical tech on them. but I guess that's to keep the dealership in the money fixing them. I may try another HD in the future but I will do my homework before I buy...

[@nwroadrat]

That bike may be missing some heat shielding I have on mine. If so, you may want to look at 3rd party options or even a HD dealer may have something to install. The model I have is toasty on a hot day, but it also has a suped up engine putting out even more heat. Mine is doable so I'm sure there's a way to solve your annoyance.

[@gonzosc1]

yeah I've talked to a lot of HD people and they said that the 07-08 had a heat problem for some reason. I got a lot of different answers. some say what you said and others told me that the pipes themselves had thinner steal then the newer ones. and others told me that the factory tune in the stock ECM was just plain bad. HD offers a newer flash for the ECM and I had it done but didn't help any. next I gonna try a new head pipe set from "Rush" by the looks of it on the site it should be the best fix that I can find. ceramic coated and takes the heat. but I question it for only $250, may be snake oil, but worth a try I guess.

[@nwroadrat]

Personally, I would find someone who has intimate knowledge of this issue. If you buy and try, you might get lucky, or you could spend money that doesn't correct it to your satisfaction. I had another bike before this one that could be toasty on a hot day. Good Luck.

[@caseyklein1590]

Swith to narrow band O2 plugs in the exhaust and also check the fuel filter.....I switched the O2 sensors and filter....made a difference.

[@SteveSteve-md6qx]

I’ve got the 07 Classic and agree it’s HOT! You can easily set it to drop onto one cylinder at intersections. Keeps it cooler. Sounds strange but works. Check it out on KZbin.

[@carlproia5477]

That bike has a carburetor on it....?

[@single55]

With all the stay at home from the coronavirus go out and clean your bike you got plenty of time no matter what you ride. You will look good and your bike will look like brand new.

[@GurrasGarage]

Good review, about the stand I noticed that to when I tested the Fat Boy, I was always afraid she would tip over.

[@nwroadrat]

+Gurra ~ Yes, I've had that same tip over feeling. So it just wasn't me.

[@IamTheGoatstroker]

+nwroadrat You guys know the Harley stands lock in place, right? Once it's down and weight is on it, it will not move backward. The bike won't fall.

[@nwroadrat]

+Jerry G ~ Before doing this vid I asked and asked around about this. Thanks for that tip!

[@IamTheGoatstroker]

***** Yeah man I went to start mine a few weeks ago and it was in gear. Not sure why the starter engaged anyway, but the bike jumped forward and scared the crap out of me as I stood helpless to the right of the bike.. She stayed up on the stand though, so that one is tested and proven :-)

[@nwroadrat]

+Jerry G ~ Tested and proven and you took one for the team!

[@funeralhall2573]

Nice bike! I like that cool cat at the end of this video! I have A few cats around here! You just feed them and they do the rest! Every time I wash my truck , They walk across the hood and top. Cool man!

[@moorshound3243]

the old road king is just that the king of the road, the new one is just a computer with two wheels!

[@tommygun6028]

Lovely Bike. How much did you pay for it?

[@robertglancy4474]

I have a 2012 RK...I love it and the pull on my clutch is nice and easy, especially compared to the 99 fatboy I owned, that was a bear.

[@tommygun6028]

Are the older Harleys more reliable ?

[@ccb7122]

Tommy Gun no

[@edwardweiszbeck1649]

You don't go buying an air cold bike and then wish it was liquid cooled. You're not getting the point of owning a Harley: Simpler clean lines without the liquid cooling plumbing and extra weight and expense and catastrophy, should you have a related breakdown / great sound/ nostalgic great looks. You can ride a Harley across the continent without a cooling issue, as long as youre moving. However it Just takes a simple hose clamp or hose rot or a pebble hitting the radiator, to leave you stranded in the middle of nowhere.

[@edwardweiszbeck1649]

Harley has been making bikes longer than anyone. They've got it figured out, what you need an don't Need in a street motorcycle. Liquid cooling only came into being for racing applications...To sustain max horsepower longer. So other than street bikes that will be put on a race course as an option, liquid cooling didn't need to be put on the street bikes necessarily. That said I'll give you props on a well filmed Road King showcase video. Thanks for that !

[@damianrowgalo4686]

Edward Weiszbeck air cooled is ancient technology

[@bagotoetags801]

Don't forget about sitting too high on the padded seat and high frame. Unlike the old swingarm frame where you sit lower and more in front of the rear wheel. If you remove those goofy boxes on the crash bar you'll get better airflow cooling.. Check your rear brake fluid reservoir if your brake pedal is too low also the rear brake pads for wear. The whole nacelle and headlamp assembly has to come off, which really sucks and be careful with the spear nut because it's has a cheap crappy stud that will break very easily. New spears are way overpriced but gorilla glue isn't.

[@johnharbaugh6510]

what are the caps on top of the saddle bags?

[@JL-ek2ks]

This is how you open and close the saddle bags on a Police bike. The hockey pucks are designed for very easy access while sitting on the police motor. A standard Harley touring bike doesn't have this style saddlebag latch.

[@travelinben1966]

Best all around model HD makes imo.

[@boxz1984]

i am getting one next week,but dont like the windscreen and love single headlight,looks like the bad boy