Harley-Davidson Road King [2007-2016]: A Timeless Touring Icon

Introduction

The Harley-Davidson Road King, produced from 2007 to 2016, embodies the spirit of American touring motorcycles. Built for long-haul comfort and unmistakable style, this generation of the Road King retains its status as a cornerstone of Harley’s touring lineup. Powered by the legendary Twin Cam engine and draped in chrome accents, it’s a machine that blends classic aesthetics with modern reliability. Whether you’re carving highways or cruising through town, the Road King delivers a riding experience that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly capable. Let’s dive into what makes this motorcycle a enduring favorite.

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Design and Styling

The Road King’s design is a masterclass in balancing nostalgia with functionality. Its steel backbone frame, topped with a detachable Lexan windshield and injection-molded hard saddlebags, screams practicality without sacrificing Harley’s signature chrome-laden flair. The 28-spoke cast aluminum wheels, available in black or polished finishes, complement the bike’s muscular stance.

Color options evolved over the years, ranging from understated Vivid Black to bold two-tone schemes like Deep Jade Pearl/Vivid Black and Sand Pearl/Canyon Brown Pearl. The 2013 110th Anniversary Edition, clad in Anniversary Vintage Bronze/Black, added exclusivity. Chrome accents dominate—from the “Hiawatha” headlight nacelle to the dual tapered mufflers—giving the Road King a polished, ready-for-anything look.

Standout features include the quick-release windshield (a boon for riders who prefer open-air cruising) and lockable saddlebags offering 2.26 cubic feet of storage. The tank-mounted speedometer, with its retro-inspired font, keeps critical data like fuel range and diagnostics front and center.

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Performance and Handling

Engine and Power

At the heart of the Road King lies the Twin Cam engine. Early models (2007–2011) used the Twin Cam 96 (1,584cc), producing 92–96.6 ft.lbs (125–131 Nm) of torque. In 2012, Harley introduced the Twin Cam 103 (1,688cc), bumping output to 100–101.8 ft.lbs (135.6–138 Nm). This air-cooled V-twin thrives at low RPMs, delivering effortless highway passing power at 3,250 RPM.

The six-speed Cruise Drive transmission shifts smoothly, while the belt final drive (32/68 pulley ratio) ensures quiet, low-maintenance operation. Fuel economy hovers around 42 MPG (5.6 L/100km), granting a 373 km (232 mi) range from its 22.7L (6.0 gal) tank.

Chassis and Dynamics

With a 26° rake and 170mm (6.7 in) of trail, the Road King leans toward stability over agility—a trade-off that pays dividends on straightaways. The 41mm telescopic fork and air-adjustable rear shocks (76mm travel) handle rough pavement admirably, though preload adjustments are recommended for heavier loads.

Braking improved with optional ABS post-2012. Dual 300mm front discs (4-piston calipers) and a single rear disc provide confident stops, though the bike’s 355–371 kg (783–819 lbs) wet weight demands deliberate input. The 130/80-17 front and 180/65-16 rear tires strike a balance between grip and longevity.

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Comfort and Touring Capabilities

The Road King’s 678–759mm (26.7–29.9 in) seat height accommodates most riders, and the floorboards offer multiple foot positions. The two-up seat, with its custom stitching, remains plush for hours—though aftermarket options like a Sundowner seat can enhance support.

Wind management is stellar. The windshield deflects buffeting effectively, and the fairing-mounted lights (added in later models) improve nighttime visibility. Saddlebags swallow gear easily, and Harley’s optional Tour-Pak transforms it into a full-dress tourer.

Critics might note the lack of modern amenities like heated grips or a TFT display, but the Road King’s analog charm is part of its appeal. Optional cruise control (post-2009) reduces fatigue on marathon rides.

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Competition

The Road King’s rivals in the touring segment include:

1. Honda Gold Wing (2001–2017): A tech-heavy, liquid-cooled marvel with superior comfort. However, it lacks the Road King’s retro character and aftermarket customization potential.
2. Indian Chief Vintage: Competing on heritage, the Chief matches Harley’s style but trails in dealer network support.
3. BMW K 1600 GTL: A sport-touring powerhouse with a silky inline-six engine. It’s faster but far heavier and more complex.

The Road King’s air-cooled simplicity and iconic design give it an edge for riders valuing tradition and ease of modification. While it won’t out-corner a BMW, its $18,000–$20,000 MSRP (when new) positioned it as a accessible premium tourer.

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Maintenance

Ownership is straightforward if you follow Harley’s guidelines:
- Oil Changes: Use SAE 20W-50 (3.8L with filter). Upgrade to synthetic for extended intervals.
- Spark Plugs: NGK DCPR7E or iridium DCPR7EIX (1.0mm gap). Replace every 16,000 km (10,000 mi).
- Primary Chain: Check tension every 8,000 km (5,000 mi). The 34/46 ratio primary drive demands periodic inspection.
- Belt Drive: The 140-tooth belt requires minimal upkeep but avoid debris exposure.

Common upgrades at MOTOPARTS.store:
- High-Flow Air Filters: Unlock the Twin Cam’s rumble.
- Progressive Suspension Kits: Improve load handling.
- LED Lighting: Boost visibility with plug-and-play kits.

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Final Thoughts

The 2007–2016 Road King isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a passport to the open road. Its timeless design, torquey engine, and touring-ready ergonomics make it a joy to ride, even a decade after its debut. While modern tourers offer more gadgets, few match the Road King’s blend of simplicity and soul. For riders seeking a classic American cruiser that’s ripe for personalization, this Harley remains a compelling choice.

At MOTOPARTS.store, we’re here to help you keep your Road King in peak condition—or transform it into something uniquely yours. From performance mods to luggage solutions, explore our catalog to elevate your touring experience.

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Specifications sheet

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