2017-2018 Harley-Davidson Road King: A Timeless Touring Icon Revisited
Introduction
The Harley-Davidson Road King has long been the bridge between classic American cruiser styling and modern touring capability. For the 2017-2018 model years, this machine retains its identity as a "bagger" with nostalgic flair while incorporating subtle refinements that make it relevant for both cross-country riders and Sunday cruisers. Let’s dissect what makes this generation of Road King a enduring favorite.
Design & Aesthetics: Classic Americana, Modern Touches
The Road King’s design is a masterclass in balancing heritage and function. Its full-size saddlebags, detachable windshield, and chrome-accented 2-1-2 exhaust scream traditional Harley DNA, while the Billett Silver and Laguna Orange paint options add contemporary vibrancy. The 2017 refresh introduced a sleeker headlight housing and LED lighting upgrades, giving it a sharper face without betraying its vintage soul.
The tank-mounted analog speedometer (with embedded digital odometer and trip meters) keeps the cockpit refreshingly simple. Harley’s choice to avoid cluttering the handlebars with gadgets preserves the bike’s "old-school" charm, though optional cruise control and ABS hint at modern rider aids lurking beneath the surface.
Engine & Performance: The Heartbeat of Milwaukee
At the core of the Road King lies the Milwaukee-Eight 107 V-twin (1,753cc), replacing the older Twin Cam engine. This air/oil-cooled powerplant delivers 87 HP and a stump-pulling 138 Nm (101.8 ft-lbs) of torque at just 3,250 RPM. While horsepower figures won’t thrill sportbike riders, the torque curve is where this engine shines. From idle to highway speeds, it pulls with the lazy confidence of a freight train, making overtaking effortless even when fully loaded.
The 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission smooths out vibrations, while the belt final drive ensures near-maintenance-free operation. Fuel economy sits at 5.6 L/100km (42 mpg), respectable for a 379 kg (835 lb) behemoth. The exhaust note—a deep, syncopated rumble—is pure Harley theater, though aftermarket pipes remain a popular upgrade for riders craving more auditory drama.
Handling & Ride Quality: Surprisingly Nimble for a King
Don’t let the Road King’s 1,625mm (64") wheelbase and 26-degree rake fool you—this bike handles with unexpected agility. The 49mm telescopic front fork and preload-adjustable rear shocks soak up bumps admirably, though rough pavement can feel jarring when riding solo. Load it up with gear, and the chassis settles into a planted, stable rhythm perfect for highway miles.
The 130/80-17 front and 180/65-16 rear tires strike a balance between cornering grip and straight-line stability. Braking performance is adequate, with dual 300mm front discs (4-piston calipers) and a single rear disc, though the optional ABS is worth seeking for wet-weather reassurance.
Comfort & Ergonomics: A Mobile Lay-Z-Boy
The Road King’s 705mm (27.8") seat height accommodates riders of all sizes, while the floorboards and pullback handlebars create a relaxed, upright riding position. The detachable windshield does a decent job deflecting wind at highway speeds, though taller riders might crave an aftermarket taller screen.
Those saddlebags offer 25 liters of storage each—enough for weekend trips—and the optional Tour-Pak (top case) transforms it into a full-blown tourer. Passenger accommodations are generous, with wide seating and sturdy grab rails.
Competition: How the Road King Stacks Up
The Road King’s closest rivals include:
- Indian Chief Vintage:
- Pros: More refined ride, superior infotainment
- Cons: Less aftermarket support, heavier feel
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Verdict: A worthy challenger, but lacks Harley’s customization ecosystem.
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Honda Gold Wing:
- Pros: Tech-heavy, smoother engine
- Cons: Sacrifices character for practicality
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Verdict: For gadget lovers, not traditionalists.
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BMW R 18 Transcontinental:
- Pros: Modern engineering, premium finishes
- Cons: Higher maintenance costs, polarizing design
- Verdict: A Teutonic alternative to Americana.
The Road King wins on brand cachet and customization potential, though it trails in tech features. It’s for riders who prioritize soul over specs.
Maintenance: Keeping Your King Road-Ready
The Road King’s air-cooled engine is refreshingly simple to maintain:
- Oil changes: Every 5,000 km (3,100 mi) using SAE 20W-50 (4.9L with filter)
- Primary chaincase: 900mL of SAE 80W-90 gear oil annually
- Tire pressure: 2.5 bar (36 psi) front, 2.8 bar (41 psi) rear
- Spark plugs: NGK CR9E (replace every 12,000 km / 7,500 mi)
The hydraulic valve lifters eliminate manual adjustments—a boon for DIYers. Watch for:
- Belt drive inspection: Check for cracks/debris every 8,000 km
- Brake fluid flush: DOT 4 every 2 years
- Suspension pivots: Lube every 10,000 km to prevent squeaks
Pro tip: Upgrade to synthetic oils for reduced engine heat during long hauls.
Conclusion: Why the Road King Endures
The 2017-2018 Road King isn’t about being the fastest, lightest, or most technologically advanced. It’s about the visceral connection between rider and machine—the way the V-twin pulses at stoplights, the way the chrome catches sunlight, the way it transforms mundane commutes into mini-adventures. For those seeking a touring bike with unapologetic character and endless customization potential (hello, MOTOPARTS.store upgrades!), this Harley remains a compelling choice.
Whether you’re retrofitting LED lighting, upgrading suspension, or simply keeping it stock, the Road King rewards those who appreciate motorcycling as a lifestyle, not just a hobby.
Specifications sheet
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Stroke: | Four-stroke |
| Max power: | 64 kW | 86.0 hp |
| Max torque: | 138 Nm |
| Fuel system: | Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) |
| Max power @: | 5000 rpm |
| Displacement: | 1753.5 ccm |
| Fuel control: | Double Overhead Cams (DOHC) |
| Max torque @: | 3250 rpm |
| Bore x stroke: | 98.4 x 111.3 mm (3.9 x 4.4 in) |
| Configuration: | V |
| Cooling system: | Air/oil-cooled |
| Compression ratio: | 9.6:1 |
| Number of cylinders: | 2 |
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase: | 1625 mm (64.0 in) |
| Dry weight: | 363 |
| Wet weight: | 379 |
| Seat height: | 705 mm (27.8 in) |
| Overall length: | 2450 mm (96.5 in) |
| Ground clearance: | 135 mm (5.3 in) |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 22.7 L (6.0 US gal) |
| Drivetrain | |
|---|---|
| Clutch: | Multi-plate wet clutch with diaphragm spring |
| Final drive: | belt |
| Transmission: | 6-speed |
| Primary drive ratio: | 34/46 |
| Maintainance | |
|---|---|
| Engine oil: | SAE 20W-50 |
| Idle speed: | 850 RPM |
| Brake fluid: | DOT 4 |
| Spark plugs: | NGK CR9E or NGK CR9EIX |
| Transmission oil: | 0.95 L SAE 80W-90 |
| Engine oil capacity: | 4.9 |
| Primary oil capacity: | 0.9 |
| Valve clearance check interval: | Not required (hydraulic lifters) |
| Recommended tire pressure (rear): | 2.8 bar (41 psi) |
| Recommended tire pressure (front): | 2.5 bar (36 psi) |
| Additional Features | |
|---|---|
| Lighting: | LED lighting with optional security system |
| Instruments: | Electronic speedometer with odometer, clock, trip meter, fuel gauge, and diagnostics |
| Carrying capacity: | Saddlebags |
| Optional features: | ABS, cruise control |
| Chassis and Suspension | |
|---|---|
| Rake: | 26° |
| Trail: | 170 mm (6.7 in) |
| Rear tire: | 180/65-16 |
| Front tire: | 130/80-17 |
| Rear brakes: | Single 300 mm disc, 4-piston caliper (ABS optional) |
| Front brakes: | Double 300 mm discs, 4-piston calipers (ABS optional) |
| Rear suspension: | Twin shocks, preload adjustable |
| Front suspension: | Telescopic fork, 49 mm diameter |
