The Harley Road King is a classic and comfortable choice for many motorbike enthusiasts. Its powerful engine, unique style, and reliable performance set it apart from other models. Harley-Davidson has produced this model to meet the highest industry standards for decades.
Despite its popularity, there are certain “Harley Davidson Road King Years To Avoid” due to potential issues. Specifically, 2003, 2004, 2006, and 2013 models have reported problems from users who have experienced them firsthand. While these models still adhere to Harley Davidson’s quality control process and pass all necessary safety inspections, they may not provide an ideal experience when riding or maintaining them long term.
Knowing which years should be avoided when looking for a new or used motorcycle is essential to ensure you get the most out of your purchase. Common problems with these specific Road Kings include electrical system malfunctions due to poor wiring insulation and transmission systems failures due to inadequate power delivery in some engine components.
On the other hand, customers who opt for older or newer models do not suffer such complications on their vehicles, thus providing more peace of mind during those long rides away from home. Choosing a Road King produced between 2007 and 2018 should give you an overall dependable ride without significant concerns about reliability or performance.
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Road King Years To Avoid: Years And The Reason Explained
As customers, we always expect that every upgrade of the motorcycles, including Road King, will be better than the previous year. Although it is a standard procedure, some updated motorcycle models still need to meet the user’s expectations. Harley Road King model year changes with significant upgrades. However, we have already mentioned that riders have high expectations from the Road King versions. Unfortunately, a few Harley Road King versions have failed to impress its users, and many riders were genuinely disappointed when riding and using these models.
Experts suggest new motorcycle riders avoid these Harley Roads Kings models due to their lack of features or performance issues:
- 2003 Harley Road King
- 2004 Harley Road King
- 2006 Harley Road King
- 2014 Harley Road King.
These models may not necessarily be harmful products, but they didn’t seem to offer that “extra thing” people expect from a Road King model, so many riders were unhappy with them upon purchase or use.
Therefore, new motorcyclists must do thorough research before buying any particular model to ensure they are getting all of the features and performance they need from their bike without having any regrets later on down the line while also avoiding disappointment in terms of quality and reliability – no matter if it’s a brand-new or secondhand bike you’re considering purchasing!
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Issues about the 2003 Road King models:
The manufacturer had highly anticipated the 2003 Road King but failed to meet expectations. Complaints about its fuel system were rampant, leading to unexpected shutdowns and leaks. Beyond that, users found the engine subpar and incompatible with what is required for a motorcycle of this class. The motor used in this model was different from Harley’s usual high product standards, too, making it all the more difficult for riders to enjoy their time on the bike.
Problems with 2004 Road King Models:
Riders highly anticipated Harley Davidson’s 2004 Road King model in the wake of its 2003 predecessor’s disappointing performance. Unfortunately, when the motorcycle finally arrived on the market, it had plenty of issues, making it anything but a success.
The biggest problem with the Harley Davidson Road King 2004 was its transmission system and engine compatibility. In addition, riders also found plastic components in critical areas of the bike’s structure, which could easily break away and cause accidents or damage to both rider and vehicle alike.
Unfortunately for Harley Davidson, two other models released in 2004 did not perform any better than their Road King counterparts. The FXSTB Night Train could have delivered on power efficiency while having a solid base foundation, making it almost impossible for long rides out of town. Additionally, users reported braking issues with their HD Street 500 model, along with needing help to see much improvement from prior years despite claims from Harley Davidson about major design updates and an increase in efficiency.
Overall, 2004 proved disastrous for Harley Davison because all three models received poor user feedback, which rendered them unreliable choices for serious motorcyclists looking for reliable touring options or powerful engines that can keep up with longer hours out on the Road.
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FAQs About 2003 and 2004 Models Road King
What is the estimated value of a 2003 Harley Road King?
The base price is $16,650, with a low retail value of $4,230.
How many units of 2003 Road Kings were manufactured?
3600 CVO Road Kings were produced in this model year, available in two distinct styles, with one being the FLHRSEI, finished in Centennial Gold with Black and Burgundy accents.
What type of engine powers the 2003 Road King Classic?
It is equipped with an 88 cubic inch v-twin engine, paired with a 5-speed transmission, capable of producing 80 foot-pounds of torque at 3,400 rpm.
What is the engine displacement of a 2003 Road King?
It features an air-cooled, 1450cc, Twin Cam 88 V-Twin engine, capable of producing 117 Nm of torque at 3500 rpm, and is mated to a five-speed manual transmission.
How much is a 2004 Road King valued at?
The base price is suggested at $17,845, with an average retail value of $6,220.
Is the 2004 Road King considered a satisfactory motorcycle?
Indeed, it is comfortable for long rides, offering adequate power and numerous upgrade paths, making it a satisfying choice, especially for those new to the FLH model.
Which model does a 2004 Road King represent?
It is designated as the 2004 Harley-Davidson FLHR/I Road King.
What engine is housed in a 2004 Road King?
It is powered by an air-cooled, 1450cc Twin Cam 88 V-Twin engine, coupled with a five-speed manual transmission, capable of reaching a peak torque of 117 Nm at 3500 rpm.
Issues with Road King models manufactured in 2006:
The Harley-Davidson Electra Glide was released in 2006 but didn’t live up to its namesake. The model quickly gained a reputation for being one of the worst Harley models ever made due to numerous complaints from riders. Several issues plagued this bike, making it difficult and time-consuming to maintain and repair.
Riders reported multiple defects with the Electra Glide, including difficulty separating parts. These wobbly bolts would sometimes come off during operation, an inferior cylinder attached to the fuel tank, which was clingy, and more. All these major and minor problems combined made this model one of the worst Harleys ever produced.
Here are some of the reasons why Harley-Davidson’s Electra Glide failed:
- Parts were difficult to separate for maintenance or repairs
- Wobbly bolts caused frequent malfunctions
- Bolts often came loose while riding
- The inferior cylinder attached to the fuel tank
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FAQs About 2006 Model Road King
What is the approximate worth of a 2006 Road King?
The suggested list price is $17,655, with an average retail value of $6,525.
Is the 2006 Harley-Davidson Road King rated as a commendable bike?
It is highly recommended, especially the Custom model, for its great ride and retro styling, making it a favored upgrade from other models like the Sportster.
What engine is mounted on a 2006 Road King?
It sports an air-cooled, 1450cc, Twin Cam 88 V-Twin engine, paired to a five-speed manual transmission, and can produce its peak torque of 117 Nm at 3500 rpm.
What is the engine displacement of a 2006 Road King?
It is equipped with a 2-cylinder, 4-stroke, 45° V-twin engine, with a displacement of 1450 cc (88.6 cubic inches), featuring an air cooling system.
Issues with the 2014 Road King motorcycle models:
Harley Davidson released the 2014 version of their famous Road King motorbike, which featured a well-designed look. However, reports began to emerge regarding faulty engine parts, leading to at least 19 accidents attributed to this model. As a result, Harley had to recall some of these bikes for complete replacement. Additionally, issues were reported with the hydraulic system not delivering the expected performance and consequently creating dangerous riding conditions. As such, the bike could break down without any prior alert warning riders.
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FAQs About 2014 Model Road King
What is the assessed value of a 2014 Harley Road King?
The base price is suggested at $19,454, with an average retail value of $11,820.
Is the 2014 Road King evaluated as a proficient bike?
Certainly, it is regarded as a very capable and enjoyable bike, ideal for long rides on various terrains, offering extensive range and unparalleled comfort.
What type of engine is installed in a 2014 Road King?
It features a new air-cooled high-output Twin Cam 103™ Harley® engine, paired with a 6-speed cruise drive transmission, designed to enhance performance power for various riding conditions.
What is the engine capacity of the 2014 Harley-Davidson Road King?
An air-cooled, 103.1 cu propels it. In. High-output Twin Cam 103 engine with an integrated oil cooler, modified to deliver improved low-end torque, passing power, and overall feedback.
The Best Years to Buy a Used Harley-Davidson Road King
The 2017 Road King is a popular choice amongst Harley riders regarding used models. It has a classic, vintage appearance that many will appreciate and can even be upgraded with leather equipment. The 96/96B cam motor makes this model perfect for long tours, and the manufacturer has also changed bolts, fuel tank, and clutch system, making it more reliable than previous models.
In addition, the improved bore tool in the 2017 version increases the engine’s efficiency, allowing it to run at higher speeds for extended periods. This bike is ideal for those looking for an affordable yet reliable motorcycle for short or long trips.
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Final Thoughts on Road King Years To Avoid
The Harley Davidson Road King has become a popular choice for many riders. However, it is essential to consider “Harley Davidson Road King Years To Avoid” when purchasing a used bike. Specifically, the 2003, 2004, 2006, and 2014 models should be avoided. Though these four models possess the same classic look and performance expected of any Harley Davidson Motorcycle, they do not meet the standard regarding reliability and safety on the roads.
On the other hand, more reliable options can be found in the 2001, 2002, 2011, and 2017 models, which provide both satisfactory performance and quality assurance for safe riding on roadways. With their unique style and unmatched performance capabilities, these alternate models remain excellent choices for those looking to purchase a used motorcycle that will last them through their journeys.