Harley-Davidson Road King Special 2018 - Specifications & Review

Article Complete Info
| Articleid | 723981 |
|---|---|
| Category | Touring |
| Make | Harley-Davidson |
| Model | Road King Special |
| Price | US$ 21999. Euro 24995. Prices depend on country, taxes, accessories, etc. |
| Year | 2018 |
Chassis, Suspension, Brakes & Wheels
| Frontbrakes | Double disc. ABS. 4-piston |
|---|---|
| Frontsuspension | Telescopic fork |
| Fronttyre | 130/60-B19 |
| Rake | 26.0° |
| Rearbrakes | Single disc. ABS. 4-piston |
| Rearsuspension | Twin shocks |
| Reartyre | 180/55-B18 |
| Trail | 170 mm (6.7 inches) |
| Wheels | Black, Turbine Cast Aluminum |
Engine & Transmission
| Borexstroke | 98.4 x 111.3 mm (3.9 x 4.4 inches) |
|---|---|
| Clutch | Multi-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath |
| Compression | 9.6:1 |
| Coolingsystem | Air |
| Displacement | 1687.97 ccm (103.00 cubic inches) |
| Driveline | Chain, 34/46 ratio primary drive |
| Enginedetails | V2, four-stroke |
| Enginetype | Integrated Oil-Cooler |
| Exhaustsystem | Black, 2-1-2 dual exhaust with tapered mufflers |
| Fuelconsumption | 5.90 litres/100 km (16.9 km/l or 39.87 mpg) |
| Fuelsystem | Injection. Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection |
| Gearbox | 6-speed |
| Greenhousegases | 136.9 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission) |
| Lubricationsystem | Dry sump |
| Power | 87.00 HP (63.5 kW)) @ 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 138.00 Nm (14.1 kgf-m or 101.8 ft.lbs) @ 3250 RPM |
| Transmissiontypefinaldrive | Belt |
Other Specifications
| Carryingcapacity | Saddle bags |
|---|---|
| Coloroptions | Vivid Black, Olive Gold, Industrial Gray Denim, Hard Candy Hot Rod Red Flake |
| Comments | Windshield. Cruise control. Security system. |
| Instruments | Tank-mounted electronic speedometer with odometer, time-of-day clock on odometer; dual trip meter; low fuel indicator light and mileage countdown feature; low oil pressure indicator light; engine diagnostics readout; LED indicator lights; 6-speed indicator light |
| Light | High beam, running lights, front fender running lights, directional light bar, neutral, low oil pressure, engine diagnostics, turn signals, security system (optional), 6-speed, low fuel warning, cruise control (optional), ABS (optional) |
| Starter | Electric |
Physical Measures & Capacities
| Dryweight | 355.0 kg (782.6 pounds) |
|---|---|
| Fuelcapacity | 22.71 litres (6.00 gallons) |
| Groundclearance | 135 mm (5.3 inches) |
| Oilcapacity | 4.90 litres (0.32 quarts) |
| Overalllength | 2,420 mm (95.3 inches) |
| Powerweightratio | 0.2451 HP/kg |
| Seatheight | 695 mm (27.4 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Weightincloilgasetc | 372.0 kg (820.1 pounds) |
About Harley-Davidson Road King Special 2018
Introducing the 2018 Harley-Davidson Road King Special, a stunning blend of classic American touring comfort and modern performance. Positioned firmly in the touring category, this motorcycle captures the spirit of the open road with its sleek, stripped-down styling and powerful presence. Priced at approximately US$21,999, the Road King Special is an enticing option for riders looking for a mix of sophistication and raw power, making it a standout choice for long-distance travel and daily rides alike.
At the heart of the Road King Special lies a robust 1687.97 ccm (103 cubic inch) V2, four-stroke engine that delivers an exhilarating 87 horsepower at 5,000 RPM and a formidable torque of 138 Nm at 3,250 RPM. This engine is designed for those who crave performance without compromising on comfort. The 6-speed gearbox provides smooth shifting, while the air-cooled system ensures optimal engine temperatures even during long rides. With a fuel consumption of just 5.90 liters per 100 km (39.87 mpg), this motorcycle is not only powerful but also efficient, allowing you to ride further without worrying about frequent stops.
The Road King Special is equipped with an array of features that elevate the riding experience. Standard amenities include an iconic windshield, cruise control for long stretches on the highway, and a comprehensive security system for peace of mind. The motorcycle is available in a palette of striking colors—Vivid Black, Olive Gold, Industrial Gray Denim, and the eye-catching Hard Candy Hot Rod Red Flake—ensuring that every rider can find a model that reflects their unique personality. The advanced braking system, featuring ABS on both front and rear discs, enhances safety, while the telescopic front fork and twin-shock rear suspension provide a smooth and controlled ride, even over bumpy terrain.
PROs:
- Powerful Performance: The 103 cubic inch engine delivers ample power and torque, making it ideal for highway cruising and hill climbs.
- Comfort Features: With its plush seat height of 695 mm and the addition of cruise control, long-distance rides are enjoyable and fatigue-free.
- Stylish Customization: A range of color options and the iconic Harley-Davidson design allow for personal expression while maintaining a timeless aesthetic.
CONs:
- Weight: At 372 kg (820 lbs) when fully fueled, the Road King Special can feel heavy at low speeds, particularly for newer riders.
- Price Point: While offering great performance and features, the cost may be prohibitive for some potential buyers, especially when factoring in taxes and accessories.
- Limited Storage: The stripped-down design may limit storage options, making it less practical for riders needing extra cargo space on long trips.
In summary, the 2018 Harley-Davidson Road King Special is a captivating motorcycle that beautifully combines power, comfort, and style, making it an excellent choice for both seasoned riders and newcomers to the Harley family. Whether you’re cruising down the highway or navigating city streets, this bike is engineered to deliver an unforgettable ride.
