Harley-Davidson Road King Classic [2017-2019] Review: A Timeless Touring Icon
Introduction
The Harley-Davidson Road King Classic has long stood as a cornerstone of American touring motorcycles, blending nostalgic design with modern engineering. For riders who crave the open road without sacrificing classic Harley DNA, the 2017-2019 generation remains a compelling choice. Having spent time with this machine, I can confidently say it’s a motorcycle that speaks to both the heart and the practical needs of long-distance riders. Let’s dive into what makes this generation of Road King Classic a standout.
Design & Presence
The Road King Classic is a masterclass in balancing heritage and functionality. Its chrome-accented front end, fringed saddlebags, and bullet-shaped turn signals pay homage to Harley-Davidson’s 1960s touring lineage. The 2017-2019 models retain the iconic "shark nose" fairing with a quick-detach windshield, a feature that adds to its retro charm while offering practical wind protection.
Available in colors like Twisted Cherry/Silver Fortune and Olive Gold/Black Tempest, the paint quality and chrome finishes are impeccable. The 22.7-liter fuel tank (6 US gallons) flows seamlessly into the frame, creating a muscular profile that looks equally at home on coastal highways or parked outside a roadside diner.
Practicality shines through details like the hard-sided saddlebags, which provide 50 liters of storage—enough for weekend trips. The 715 mm (28.1-inch) seat height ensures accessibility for most riders, though the bike’s 379 kg (835 lb) wet weight demands respect when maneuvering at low speeds.
Engine & Performance
The Milwaukee-Eight Heart
At the core of this Road King Classic lies the Milwaukee-Eight 107 V-twin, a 1,688 cc (103 cubic inch) air-cooled powerhouse producing 89 HP at 5,450 RPM and a stump-pulling 150 Nm (110.6 lb-ft) of torque at 3,200 RPM. Harley’s switch to this engine in 2017 marked a significant upgrade over previous Twin Cam models, with smoother operation and reduced vibration.
On the road, the engine’s character is pure Harley: a deep, rumbling idle that transitions into a purposeful growl under acceleration. The torque curve is perfectly suited for touring, with ample grunt available from as low as 2,000 RPM. Cruising at 110 km/h (68 mph) in sixth gear, the engine loafs along at 2,800 RPM, making long hauls surprisingly relaxed.
The 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission pairs with a maintenance-free belt final drive, delivering buttery-smooth shifts. While the clutch pull is heavier than sport-touring bikes, it’s manageable for a machine of this heft. Fuel economy sits at 4.9 L/100 km (48 mpg), giving a theoretical range of 460 km (286 miles)—more than enough between fuel stops.
Ride & Comfort
Chassis Dynamics
Harley’s Double Cradle steel frame and 26-degree rake provide stable highway manners, though the 1,625 mm (64-inch) wheelbase ensures slow-speed agility remains respectable. The 49 mm telescopic front fork and preload-adjustable twin rear shocks handle bumps competently, though rough pavement can feel jarring when riding solo.
Tire pressures play a crucial role here:
- Front: 2.5 bar (36 psi)
- Rear: 2.8 bar (41 psi)
Stick to these numbers, and the MT90-B16 front and 180/65-B16 rear tires offer predictable grip, even when leaning into sweeping corners. The optional ABS (a must-have for touring) works flawlessly, with dual 300 mm front discs and a 292 mm rear disc providing confident stopping power.
Ergonomics
The bench-style seat is plush for the first two hours but benefits from an aftermarket upgrade for marathon days. Handlebars are positioned for a natural upright posture, and the floorboards offer multiple foot positions. Wind protection from the stock windshield is adequate up to 130 km/h (80 mph), though taller riders might opt for a larger aftermarket screen.
Technology & Features
While not a tech powerhouse, the Road King Classic covers touring essentials:
- Tank-mounted analog speedometer with digital odometer and gear indicator
- Cruise control (optional)
- Security system (optional)
- LED lighting for the headlight and fender accents
The absence of a tachometer is a curious choice, but Harley’s trademark "potato-potato" idle serves as its own rhythm section. Riders seeking modern amenities like navigation or ride modes will need to look elsewhere, but for purists, this simplicity is part of the appeal.
Competition
1. Indian Chief Dark Horse
Indian’s 1,811 cc Thunder Stroke engine delivers comparable torque, and its LED lighting and keyless ignition feel more modern. However, the Road King’s superior aftermarket support and timeless styling give it an edge for customization.
2. Honda Gold Wing Tour
A tech-laden alternative with a 1,833 cc flat-six and dual-clutch transmission. The Gold Wing excels in comfort and gadgets but lacks the Road King’s visceral character and nostalgic design.
3. BMW R 1250 RT
For riders prioritizing performance, the BMW’s 1,254 cc boxer engine and Dynamic ESA suspension outhandle the Harley. Yet the Road King’s lower seat height and belt drive make it more approachable for traditionalists.
Verdict: The Road King Classic isn’t the most advanced or lightweight tourer, but its emotional resonance and customization potential are unmatched.
Maintenance & Upkeep
Key Considerations
- Hydraulic Lifters: No manual valve adjustments needed—a major plus for owners who dislike frequent tinkering.
- Oil Changes:
- Engine: 4.9 liters of SAE 20W-50 (MOTOPARTS.store recommends synthetic blends for extreme temperatures)
- Transmission: 950 ml of SAE 80W-90
- Primary Drive: 900 ml of SAE 20W
- Tires: Replace stock Dunlops with Metzeler Cruisetecs for better wet grip.
- Spark Plugs: NGK CR9EB (standard) or CR9EIX iridium plugs for longer service intervals.
MOTOPARTS.store Upgrades
- Exhaust: Swap the factory mufflers for Vance & Hines Slip-Ons to unleash the Milwaukee-Eight’s true voice.
- Air Filter: K&N High-Flow Kit for improved throttle response.
- Suspension: Progressive Monotube shocks for heavier loads.
- Lighting: Custom Dynamics LED modules for enhanced visibility.
Final Thoughts
The 2017-2019 Harley-Davidson Road King Classic isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a rolling heirloom. From the way sunlight dances off its chrome accents to the reassuring thump of its V-twin at stoplights, this bike rewards riders who value tradition as much as performance. While it demands compromises in technology and weight, few machines deliver such a potent blend of nostalgia and capability.
For owners looking to personalize their ride, MOTOPARTS.store offers everything from performance upgrades to vintage-inspired accessories. Whether you’re chasing horizons or turning heads at the local meetup, the Road King Classic remains a testament to Harley-Davidson’s enduring legacy.
Ride safe, and keep the rubber side down.
Specifications sheet
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Stroke: | Four-stroke |
| Max power: | 66 kW | 89.0 hp |
| Max torque: | 150 Nm |
| Fuel system: | Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) |
| Max power @: | 5450 rpm |
| Displacement: | 1745 ccm |
| Max torque @: | 3200 rpm |
| Bore x stroke: | 100.0 x 111.1 mm (3.9 x 4.4 in) |
| Configuration: | V |
| Cooling system: | Air/Oil-cooled (Integrated Oil-Cooler) |
| Engine details: | Milwaukee-Eight® 107 V-Twin |
| Compression ratio: | 10.0:1 |
| Lubrication system: | Dry sump |
| Number of cylinders: | 2 |
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase: | 1625 mm (64.0 in) |
| Dry weight: | 362 |
| Wet weight: | 376 |
| Seat height: | 715 mm (28.1 in) |
| Overall length: | 2420 mm (95.3 in) |
| Ground clearance: | 125 mm (4.9 in) |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 22.7 L (6.0 US gal) |
| Drivetrain | |
|---|---|
| Clutch: | Multi-plate diaphragm spring in oil bath |
| Final drive: | belt |
| Transmission: | 6-speed |
| Primary drive ratio: | 34/46 |
| Maintenance | |
|---|---|
| Engine oil: | 20W50 |
| Idle speed: | 850 RPM |
| Brake fluid: | DOT 4 |
| Spark plugs: | NGK CR9EB or NGK CR9EIX |
| Valve clearance: | Hydraulic lifters (no manual adjustment required) |
| Transmission oil: | 950 ml SAE 80W-90 |
| Primary drive oil: | 900 ml |
| Engine oil capacity: | 4.9 |
| Tire pressure (rear): | 2.8 bar (41 psi) |
| Tire pressure (front): | 2.5 bar (36 psi) |
| Engine oil change interval: | Every 5000 km or annually |
| Additional Features | |
|---|---|
| Storage: | Lockable saddlebags |
| Lighting: | LED lighting with optional security system |
| Color options: | Vivid Black, Bonneville Salt Pearl, Silver Fortune/Sumatra Brown, Twisted Cherry/Silver Fortune, Olive Gold/Black Tempest |
| Instrumentation: | Electronic speedometer with odometer, clock, trip meters, fuel gauge, and diagnostic readout |
| Optional features: | ABS, cruise control, security system |
| Chassis and Suspension | |
|---|---|
| Rake: | 26° |
| Frame: | Steel tubular frame (assumed typical for touring models) |
| Trail: | 170 mm (6.7 in) |
| Rear tire: | 180/65-b16 |
| Front tire: | 130/90-b16 |
| Rear brakes: | Single 300 mm disc, 4-piston caliper (ABS optional) |
| Front brakes: | Double 300 mm discs, 4-piston calipers (ABS optional) |
| Rear suspension: | Twin shocks, preload adjustable |
| Front suspension: | 49 mm Telescopic fork |
