The 2012 Harley-Davidson Road King is a motorcycle that brings together classic design and modern features. Since its debut in 1994, the Road King has become an iconic model in Harley-Davidson's lineup, known for its timeless style and long-distance touring capabilities. With roots tracing back to the 1965 Electra Glide, the Road King offers a blend of heritage and innovation, making it a favorite among motorcycle enthusiasts.
Key Takeaways
- The 2012 Road King features a powerful 1690 cc Twin Cam 103 engine, providing both power and smoothness for long rides.
- Classic design elements like the six-gallon fuel tank and Hiawatha headlamp give the Road King its timeless look.
- Comfort is a priority, with an air-adjustable rear suspension, detachable windshield, and spacious saddlebags.
- Safety features include an optional anti-lock braking system and the Harley-Davidson Smart Security system.
- The Road King is versatile, suitable for both city cruising and long-distance touring, offering a comfortable ride for both the rider and passenger.
Historical Context and Evolution of the Harley-Davidson Road King
Origins and Early Models
The Harley-Davidson Road King made its debut in 1994, quickly becoming an iconic model in the motorcycle world. Its roots, however, trace back to the 1965 Electra Glide, which set the stage for the Road King's blend of classic style and touring capability. The Road King was designed to offer a timeless boulevard cruiser look while being fully equipped for long-distance touring.
Milestones in Development
Over the years, the Road King has seen several significant updates. In 2009, it received a major upgrade with a new frame and improved suspension, enhancing its ride quality. The 2012 model introduced the 1690 cc Twin Cam 103 engine and a 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission, providing more power and smoother performance. These updates have kept the Road King relevant and competitive in the ever-evolving motorcycle market.
Impact on Motorcycle Culture
The Road King has had a profound impact on motorcycle culture, particularly among touring enthusiasts. Its classic design and reliable performance have made it a favorite for long-distance riders. The model's ability to combine vintage aesthetics with modern technology has also attracted a diverse range of riders, from purists to those seeking a comfortable touring experience. The Road King's influence is evident in its enduring popularity and the strong community of riders who continue to celebrate its legacy.
Technical Specifications of the 2012 Harley-Davidson Road King
Engine and Transmission
The 2012 Harley-Davidson Road King is powered by an air-cooled Twin Cam 103™ engine with an integrated oil cooler. This engine has a displacement of 103 cubic inches (1690 cc) and a compression ratio of 9.6:1. The fuel system is an Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI), ensuring efficient fuel delivery.
Engine Specifications:
- Type: Air-cooled Twin Cam 103™
- Displacement: 103 cu. in. (1690 cc)
- Compression Ratio: 9.6:1
- Fuel System: Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
- Lubrication System: Pressurized, dry-sump with oil cooler
The transmission is a 6-Speed Cruise Drive® with a primary drive chain (34/46 ratio) and a final drive belt (32/68 ratio). The gear ratios are as follows:
| Gear | Ratio |
|---|---|
| 1st | 9.593 |
| 2nd | 6.65 |
| 3rd | 4.938 |
| 4th | 4.000 |
| 5th | 3.407 |
| 6th | 2.875 |
Chassis and Suspension
The Road King features a robust chassis with a chrome, 2-1-2 dual exhaust system and tapered mufflers. The wheels are black, 28-spoke cast aluminum, providing both durability and style. The front and rear tires are Dunlop® Harley-Davidson® Series with narrow whitewalls.
Chassis Specifications:
- Exhaust: Chrome, 2-1-2 dual exhaust with tapered mufflers
- Wheels: Black, 28-spoke cast aluminum
- Front Tire: NW 130/80B17 65H
- Rear Tire: NW 180/65B16 81H
The suspension system includes air-adjustable rear shocks, allowing for a customizable ride experience.
Braking and Safety Features
Safety is a priority with the 2012 Road King. It comes equipped with Brembo® 4-piston front and rear calipers and a dual front rotor brake system. An optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is available for enhanced braking performance.
Braking Specifications:
- Front and Rear Calipers: Brembo® 4-piston
- Brake System: Dual front rotor
- Optional Feature: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
The 2012 Harley-Davidson Road King combines classic design with modern engineering, offering a reliable and powerful ride. Its technical specifications reflect a balance of performance, safety, and comfort, making it a standout choice for motorcycle enthusiasts.
Design and Aesthetics
Classic Fuel Tank
The 2012 Harley-Davidson Road King features a hand-finished fuel tank that stands out with its traditional styling. The tank-mounted gauges offer a clean view of the electric speedometer and odometer, adding a touch of chrome for that classic Harley look. This design not only enhances the bike's aesthetics but also provides practical functionality for the rider.
Hiawatha Headlamp
The Hiawatha headlamp is a nod to the Big Twins of the 60s, combining vintage style with modern technology. The clear-lens reflector optics offer a longer high beam and a wider low beam, making it both a striking daytime lamp and a powerful night-time illuminator. This headlamp adds to the Road King's commanding presence on the road.
Paint and Finish Options
Harley-Davidson is known for its premium paint quality, and the 2012 Road King is no exception. The paint is up to two times thicker than the competition, featuring clearcoat layering up to five mils deep. The premium paint options include unique effects in the sunglo and pearl colors, ensuring that each bike has a custom look straight from the factory.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Seating and Riding Position
The seating position on the 2012 Harley-Davidson Road King is designed for long-distance comfort. Riders will find themselves in a relaxed, upright posture, which helps reduce fatigue over extended rides. The seat itself is well-padded and provides ample support, making it ideal for touring. Additionally, the wide set handlebars ensure that the rider's arms are comfortably positioned, reducing strain on the shoulders and neck.
Windshield and Weather Protection
One of the standout features of the Road King is its detachable windshield. This allows riders to switch between a touring setup and a more open, cruiser feel. The windshield is made from durable, scratch-resistant Lexan®, providing excellent protection against wind and debris. This feature is particularly beneficial for long rides, as it helps to reduce wind fatigue and provides a more comfortable riding experience.
Passenger Comfort
Passenger comfort is also a priority on the Road King. The bike comes equipped with a well-cushioned passenger seat and full-length footboards, which offer a stable and comfortable platform for the passenger's feet. The height adjustable passenger boards add another level of customization, ensuring that both the rider and passenger can enjoy a comfortable journey. Additionally, the option to add a sissy bar can further enhance passenger comfort, providing additional back support for longer trips.
The 2012 Harley-Davidson Road King is designed with both rider and passenger comfort in mind, making it an excellent choice for long-distance touring.
Performance and Ride Quality
Engine Performance
The 2012 Harley-Davidson Road King boasts a powerful engine with 111 foot pounds of torque right from idle, ensuring a strong and consistent performance throughout the entire RPM range. This engine is not just about raw power; it is also designed to run cooler, thanks to its oil/liquid cooling system. This cooling system, combined with the oil-cooled heads and a thermostatically controlled fan, helps in maintaining a lower operating temperature, making it one of the coolest bikes in its class.
Handling and Maneuverability
One of the standout features of the Road King is its legendary low-speed maneuverability. Despite its large size, the bike feels light and nimble, especially when navigating tight turns or riding in a group. This is achieved through a combination of fine-tuned front-end geometry and a well-balanced chassis. The rubber-mounted engine and counter-balancing further enhance the smoothness of the ride, isolating vibrations and providing a comfortable experience even on long journeys.
Suspension and Ride Comfort
The Road King comes equipped with an advanced suspension system that significantly improves both performance and comfort. The Showa suspension setup includes air-adjustable shocks, allowing riders to easily adjust the preload for different payloads or road conditions. This flexibility ensures a smooth and comfortable ride, whether you're cruising on the highway or navigating pothole-strewn roads. The suspension system is designed to handle big bumps and holes effectively, providing a confidence-inspiring ride.
The 2012 Road King is a testament to Harley-Davidson's commitment to blending power, comfort, and maneuverability into a single, iconic package.
Touring Capabilities
Storage and Saddlebags
The 2012 Harley-Davidson Road King is equipped with spacious saddlebags, providing ample storage for long trips. These saddlebags are designed to be both durable and weather-resistant, ensuring your belongings stay safe and dry. The saddlebags are also easy to access, making it convenient to store and retrieve items on the go.
Fuel Efficiency and Range
With a fuel economy of approximately 5.6 liters per 100 kilometers, the Road King offers a respectable range for touring. This efficiency allows riders to cover long distances without frequent stops for refueling. The combination of a large fuel tank and efficient engine design ensures that the Road King is well-suited for extended journeys.
Long-Distance Comfort
The Road King features a two-up seat designed for comfort on long rides. The seat is sculpted with a deep bucket and narrow neck, providing excellent back support and reducing pressure on the thighs. The lower seat height of 663 mm enhances rider confidence by allowing easier access to the ground. Additionally, the air-adjustable suspension allows riders to customize their ride for optimal comfort, regardless of the load or road conditions.
The 2012 Harley-Davidson Road King is engineered for long-haul comfort, making it an ideal choice for touring enthusiasts.
Technological Features
Electronic Systems
The 2012 Harley-Davidson Road King is equipped with a range of electronic systems designed to enhance the riding experience. One notable feature is the optional H-D® Smart Security System. This system includes a hands-free fob that automatically arms and disarms the bike's electronic security functions as you approach or walk away. This attention to detail ensures that your motorcycle remains secure without any extra effort on your part.
Another key electronic feature is the high output accessory connector. This system provides ample electrical capacity for various add-ons, such as heated vests, seats, and handgrips. This ensures that you can ride comfortably in all conditions.
Security Features
Security is a top priority for Harley-Davidson, and the 2012 Road King reflects this with its advanced security features. The H-D® Smart Security System is a factory-installed option that offers next-generation security. The system uses a hands-free fob to automatically arm and disarm the bike's electronic security functions, providing peace of mind for the rider.
Additionally, the Road King offers optional Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS). These brakes are designed to provide consistent stopping power and are tastefully hidden within the wheel hub, maintaining the bike's clean and streamlined design.
Optional Upgrades
The 2012 Road King comes with several optional upgrades that allow riders to customize their experience. One such upgrade is the cruise control feature. This electronic throttle control technology allows for a comfortable and relaxed ride, especially on long journeys.
Another optional upgrade is the Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS), which are part of the Security Package. This package also includes the H-D® Smart Security System, offering a comprehensive security solution for the bike.
The 2012 Harley-Davidson Road King seamlessly integrates advanced technology with classic design, ensuring a secure, comfortable, and customizable riding experience.
Comparative Analysis with Other Models
Road King vs. Street Glide
The Harley-Davidson Road King and the Street Glide are both popular models, but they cater to different types of riders. The Road King is known for its classic design and touring capabilities, while the Street Glide offers a more modern look with a focus on urban riding. The Road King features a detachable windshield and hard saddlebags, making it ideal for long-distance travel. In contrast, the Street Glide comes with a batwing fairing and integrated infotainment system, appealing to those who prefer a more tech-savvy ride.
| Feature | Road King | Street Glide |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Classic, Touring | Modern, Urban |
| Windshield | Detachable | Fixed Batwing |
| Saddlebags | Hard, Spacious | Integrated, Sleek |
| Infotainment System | Optional | Standard |
Road King vs. Electra Glide
When comparing the Road King to the Electra Glide, the differences are more about comfort and features. The Electra Glide is designed for ultimate comfort with its full fairing, advanced audio system, and additional storage options. The Road King, on the other hand, offers a more stripped-down experience, focusing on the essentials for touring. Both models share the same engine, but the Electra Glide's added features make it heavier and slightly less agile.
| Feature | Road King | Electra Glide |
|---|---|---|
| Fairing | None | Full |
| Audio System | Optional | Advanced, Standard |
| Storage | Basic Saddlebags | Additional Trunk |
| Weight | Lighter | Heavier |
Market Position and Pricing
In terms of market position, the Road King is often seen as a versatile option that balances classic design with modern performance. It is priced competitively, making it accessible to a wide range of riders. The Street Glide and Electra Glide, however, are positioned as more premium options, with higher price tags reflecting their additional features and advanced technology.
- Road King: Known for its balance of classic style and modern performance, making it a versatile choice.
- Street Glide: Positioned as a premium urban cruiser with advanced tech features.
- Electra Glide: Marketed as the ultimate touring bike, offering maximum comfort and storage.
The Road King stands out for its ability to offer a classic touring experience without compromising on modern amenities. This makes it a favorite among riders who appreciate both tradition and innovation.
User Reviews and Testimonials
Rider Experiences
Many riders have shared their thoughts on the 2012 Harley-Davidson Road King. One rider, known as CrazyJeeper, rented a Road King for a 300-mile trip. He found the bike to be a solid performer on long rides. Another rider mentioned that the ABS feature was particularly confidence-inspiring, especially in rainy conditions.
Common Praises and Criticisms
Riders often praise the Road King for its comfort and storage capacity. The hardbags are spacious, and the passenger seat is well-liked by many. However, some riders find the bike too heavy and loud. One rider noted that the bike's shaking at idle was quite annoying. Despite these criticisms, the overall sentiment is generally positive.
Expert Reviews
Experts also have mixed feelings about the 2012 Road King. While they appreciate its classic design and touring capabilities, they often point out its weight and lack of agility compared to other models. Nonetheless, the bike's impact on motorcycle culture is undeniable, making it a popular choice for long-distance riders.
Maintenance and Reliability
Routine Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial for the 2012 Harley-Davidson Road King to ensure its longevity and performance. The first service is recommended at 1,000 miles, followed by every 5,000 miles. Key tasks include oil changes, tire inspections, and brake checks. These steps help prevent costly repairs and ensure a smooth ride.
Common Issues and Fixes
Owners have reported a few common issues with the 2012 Road King. Some riders experience high-frequency vibrations, which can cause discomfort over long rides. This is often due to the engine being a stressed member solidly mounted to the frame. Solutions include checking the rubber mounting and counterbalancing. Another common issue is the bike running too hot, which can be mitigated by ensuring the oil cooler and fan are functioning properly.
Longevity and Durability
The 2012 Road King is known for its durability. With proper maintenance, these bikes can last for many years. The engine is both counterbalanced and rubber-mounted, which greatly improves comfort and rideability. Additionally, the bike features an oil cooler with a thermostatically controlled fan to manage engine heat, contributing to its longevity.
Regular maintenance is essential to prevent costly repairs and ensure a smooth and trouble-free ride.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Harley-Davidson Road King first introduced?
The Harley-Davidson Road King was first introduced in 1994.
What is the engine size of the 2012 Harley-Davidson Road King?
The 2012 Harley-Davidson Road King comes with a 1690 cc Twin Cam 103 engine.
Does the 2012 Road King have anti-lock brakes?
Yes, the 2012 Road King has an optional anti-lock braking system (ABS).
What is the fuel capacity of the 2012 Harley-Davidson Road King?
The 2012 Road King has a six-gallon fuel tank.
Can the windshield on the 2012 Road King be removed?
Yes, the windshield on the 2012 Road King is detachable.
What kind of suspension does the 2012 Road King have?
The 2012 Road King features an air-adjustable touring rear suspension.
Are the saddlebags on the 2012 Road King spacious?
Yes, the 2012 Road King comes with spacious, injection-molded saddlebags.
Does the 2012 Road King come with a security system?
Yes, the 2012 Road King offers an optional Harley-Davidson Smart Security system.
