Harley-Davidson FLHR Road King 2008 - Specifications & Review

Article Complete Info
| Articleid | 710207 |
|---|---|
| Category | Touring |
| Make | Harley-Davidson |
| Model | FLHR Road King |
| Price | US$ 17595. Prices depend on country, taxes, accessories, etc. |
| Year | 2008 |
Chassis, Suspension, Brakes & Wheels
| Frontbrakes | Single disc. Bremo. 4-piston calipers |
|---|---|
| Fronttyre | 120/70-ZR19 |
| Rake | 26.0° |
| Rearbrakes | Single disc. Bremo. 4-piston calipers |
| Reartyre | 240/40-R18 |
| Trail | 157 mm (6.2 inches) |
Engine & Transmission
| Borexstroke | 95.3 x 111.3 mm (3.8 x 4.4 inches) |
|---|---|
| Clutch | Multi-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath |
| Compression | 9.2:1 |
| Coolingsystem | Air |
| Displacement | 1573.25 ccm (96.00 cubic inches) |
| Enginedetails | V2, four-stroke |
| Exhaustsystem | Chrome, cross-over exhaust w/ dual mufflers and taper End Caps |
| Fuelconsumption | 4.35 litres/100 km (23.0 km/l or 54.07 mpg) |
| Fuelsystem | Injection. Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) |
| Gearbox | 6-speed |
| Greenhousegases | 100.9 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission) |
| Torque | 125.56 Nm (12.8 kgf-m or 92.6 ft.lbs) @ 3500 RPM |
| Transmissiontypefinaldrive | Belt |
Other Specifications
| Coloroptions | Vivid Black, Black Pearl, White Gold Pearl, Dark Blue Pearl (New), Crimson Red Sunglo (New), Two-Tone Suede Blue Pearl/Vivid Black, Two-Tone White Gold Pearl/Pewter Pearl (New), Two-Tone Crimson Red Sunglo/Candy Red Sunglo, Two-Tone Olive Pearl/Vivid Blac |
|---|---|
| Comments | Large Hiawatha headlamp and chrome nacelle; black powder-coated engine with chrome covers; detachable windshield; GTX-Nylon alloy lockable hard saddlebags; tank-mounted speedometer; air-adjustable rear suspension |
Physical Measures & Capacities
| Dryweight | 335.7 kg (740.0 pounds) |
|---|---|
| Fuelcapacity | 22.71 litres (6.00 gallons) |
| Groundclearance | 130 mm (5.1 inches) |
| Overalllength | 2,380 mm (93.7 inches) |
| Seatheight | 759 mm (29.9 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Weightincloilgasetc | 352.4 kg (777.0 pounds) |
About Harley-Davidson FLHR Road King 2008
Introducing the 2008 Harley-Davidson FLHR Road King, a quintessential touring motorcycle that seamlessly blends classic aesthetics with modern engineering. Renowned for its grand touring capabilities, the Road King stands as a proud representative of the Harley-Davidson family, appealing to riders who seek both comfort on long journeys and the unmistakable style that only a Harley can deliver. With a price tag starting at $17,595, this motorcycle is positioned as an accessible entry point into the world of premium touring bikes, offering a rich lineage of performance and heritage.
At the heart of the Road King lies a robust 1573.25 cc (96 cubic inches) V2, four-stroke engine, delivering a commendable 125.56 Nm (92.6 ft-lbs) of torque at 3500 RPM. This powerful engine is paired with a smooth-shifting 6-speed gearbox, allowing for effortless acceleration and cruising capability. The air-cooled design, combined with Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI), ensures that the engine runs efficiently while providing the subtle growl that riders adore. With a fuel consumption rate of approximately 4.35 liters per 100 km (54.07 mpg), the Road King balances power and efficiency, making it a suitable companion for endless miles on the open road.
The 2008 Road King is not just about performance; it's packed with features that enhance the riding experience. Its distinctive large Hiawatha headlamp, chrome nacelle, and an array of vibrant color options—including the striking Crimson Red Sunglo—add to its visual allure. The detachable windshield protects against wind buffeting, while the lockable GTX-Nylon alloy saddlebags provide ample storage for gear. Riders will also appreciate the tank-mounted speedometer for easy readability and the air-adjustable rear suspension, allowing for personalized comfort based on load and riding style. The combination of a comfortable 29.9-inch seat height and a well-designed chassis ensures that riders of varying statures can enjoy the Road King without compromise.
Pros:
- Performance and Comfort: The powerful engine paired with a smooth 6-speed transmission makes long-distance rides enjoyable and fatigue-free.
- Classic Styling: The Road King embodies an iconic Harley-Davidson aesthetic with modern touches, allowing riders to stand out on the road.
- Practical Features: With lockable saddlebags and an adjustable rear suspension, practicality meets performance, making it ideal for touring.
Cons:
- Weight: At approximately 777 pounds with fluids, the Road King can feel heavy, especially at low speeds or during maneuvers.
- Fuel Capacity: While the 22.71-liter tank is decent, it may require more frequent stops on very long rides compared to some competitors with larger tanks.
- Price Point: The starting price may be considered high for entry-level riders, particularly when factoring in additional accessories and customization options.
In summary, the 2008 Harley-Davidson FLHR Road King is a masterful blend of heritage, performance, and touring capability, making it a standout choice for enthusiasts who appreciate the open road.
