Yearly differences in the Road King Classics
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Elite HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 3,903
Likes: 1,122
From: 48.067222,12.863611
Yearly differences in the Road King Classics
Hi, I am looking to buy my first harley, a Road King Classic between now and spring. I haven't decided between new and used. I have ridden both the new 96" and the 88" though, so I understand those differences, along with the 6 spd and 5 spd tranny. My question is, does anyone know what the differences are between the '99 through '06 Road Kings. For the most part, I know they are all pretty similar, but any info would be much appreiciated. I would like to buy new, but if I can get a good deal on a used one, I will. Thanks.
Tourer
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 308
Likes: 0
From: SUNNY,FL
RE: Yearly differences in the Road King Classics
As far as visual differences in the RKC, there aren't many.
Some of the mechanical differences;
Early twin cams in 99-00 suffered some cam bearing failures and
a bearing revision.
99-01 models used a MM fuel injection system while 01 up use a Delphi system.
I think the MM system had a more Harley sounding idle than Delphi.
The frame was strengthened and the axles became thicker (1").
For 05 the valve stem diameters got smaller, and new valve stem seals were
used that leaked oil. (Mine leaked) They were soon revised during the 05
model year.
In 06 the injectors were changed to 8 degree spray angle that cause cold
start drivability issues. HD offers some 25 degree injectors that seemed to
cure all cold start issues. 06 E-Glides got a much improved radio/CD/sound system by Harmon Kardon. 06 models also got catalytic converters in the right side slip on mufflers because of stricter EPA standards.
07 models got 6 speed cruise drive and many noise issues. They also got
timing chains and a new and improved tensioner system for the chains.
07 also gained a more durable final drive belt. 07 models put out allot of heat
due to strict emissions/leak mixtures. A flash update is available as a free
improvement in heat management.
08 models have oxygen sensors and a new fuel injection controller for lower emissions (thanks EPA)
These are some of the differences that come to mind. I sure others can add
to this list.
Some of the mechanical differences;
Early twin cams in 99-00 suffered some cam bearing failures and
a bearing revision.
99-01 models used a MM fuel injection system while 01 up use a Delphi system.
I think the MM system had a more Harley sounding idle than Delphi.
The frame was strengthened and the axles became thicker (1").
For 05 the valve stem diameters got smaller, and new valve stem seals were
used that leaked oil. (Mine leaked) They were soon revised during the 05
model year.
In 06 the injectors were changed to 8 degree spray angle that cause cold
start drivability issues. HD offers some 25 degree injectors that seemed to
cure all cold start issues. 06 E-Glides got a much improved radio/CD/sound system by Harmon Kardon. 06 models also got catalytic converters in the right side slip on mufflers because of stricter EPA standards.
07 models got 6 speed cruise drive and many noise issues. They also got
timing chains and a new and improved tensioner system for the chains.
07 also gained a more durable final drive belt. 07 models put out allot of heat
due to strict emissions/leak mixtures. A flash update is available as a free
improvement in heat management.
08 models have oxygen sensors and a new fuel injection controller for lower emissions (thanks EPA)
These are some of the differences that come to mind. I sure others can add
to this list.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 2,561
Likes: 3
From: Billings, MT
RE: Yearly differences in the Road King Classics
Glad you posted this. I'm probably going to be on a Road King in the same time frames. Depends on when, if and for how much I can get for my Dyna. The dream ride for me (at least today) is an 03 in Vivid Black. Hopefully, some one can shed some light on what's good and not so good about an 03.
Road Master
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 769
Likes: 8
From: Brooksdale, ON
RE: Yearly differences in the Road King Classics
I also believe that in 04 they went to a larger throttle body, i think a 40 or 42mm and then again in 07 they went larger again. Now i am not positive on that but???
Tourer
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 308
Likes: 0
From: SUNNY,FL
RE: Yearly differences in the Road King Classics
ORIGINAL: rhuff
Red E Glide----thanks for the detailed response. That's what I was looking for. Any changes to clutch, etc.
Red E Glide----thanks for the detailed response. That's what I was looking for. Any changes to clutch, etc.
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Thread Starter
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Elite HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 3,903
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From: 48.067222,12.863611
RE: Yearly differences in the Road King Classics
Is there a big difference between the clutch efforts in the '06's and beyond? I can't imagine it being too big of a difference, right?
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Road Warrior
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 1,462
Likes: 121
From: Northern Illinois
RE: Yearly differences in the Road King Classics
It's a significant difference. I think Moco states about 20% improvement. Very easy to tell when pulling the clutch. Very "girly" now, in a good way. My 02 is just fine with me though.
