Harley-Davidson Road King reviews

I really enjoyed owning my Road King. Comfort is top tier, for rider and passenger, with wind buffeting hardly noticeable with the fork fangs. The Ohlin shocks made the ride smooth, eating up bumps. The aftermarket Vance and Hines pipes aren't too loud but make for a nice rumble. I added a Ciro phone holder wireless charger and a big cup holder for those long trips. Gas mileage is excellent. The Tour Pak has a rack on top for extra storeage. 2up seat is comfortable, so my wife says. Bike cover is included! Brand new battery. Battery tender is included. Just changed the oil and filter at 25000 mi. There is a reason cops ride these bikes in motorcycle rodeos: they corner like a rabbit! Show less

I recently had the unfortunate experience of owning a 2008 Harley Road King, and it pains me to say that it has been nothing short of a headache on two wheels. The combination of chronic electrical issues, particularly battery drain and bad ground problems, has turned what should have been an enjoyable riding experience into a constant struggle. First and foremost, the ongoing battery drain problems were a nightmare. No matter how diligently I maintained the bike, it seemed like the battery just couldn't hold a charge for more than a few days. Replacing the battery didn't solve the issue, and trips to the mechanic became a regular occurrence. The frustration of being stranded due to an unexpected dead battery became an unfortunate part of the ownership experience. Adding insult to injury, the bad ground issues exacerbated the electrical woes. Constantly chasing down wiring problems and dealing with shorts became a routine maintenance task. The lack of reliability in the electrical system was not only inconvenient but also a major safety concern. It's disheartening to invest in a bike that can't be trusted to start reliably and without issues. To make matters worse, the maintenance costs for the 2008 Harley Road King were exorbitant. Frequent visits to the dealership and specialized mechanics drained my wallet faster than the battery on this ill-fated machine. The combination of high parts costs and labor charges made routine maintenance feel like a financial burden, turning what should be a joyous pastime into a regrettable expense. In conclusion, the 2008 Harley Road King may have the classic looks and a storied brand behind it, but the chronic electrical issues, specifically the battery drain and bad ground problems, along with the high maintenance costs, make it a regrettable choice for anyone seeking a reliable and cost-effective ride. Save yourself the frustration and explore other options in the market that offer a better balance of performance and reliability. Show less

I've owned 3 Roadking bikes over the years. No other Harley gives you the comfort and plush ride quite like this model. You get all comfort without having a permanent fixed fairing stuck to you bike. 20 seconds and the quick detach windshield is off. Just as easy to put it back on. You get two bikes in one with the roadking. Great bike like I said I've owned 3 of em. A 2001 a 2010 and a 2019 currently. Get one you will NOT be disappointed! Show less

I just bought this bike yesterday and it rides great. It has a lot of custom parts and paint job. Very beautiful bike. I noticed on the back right side of the fuel tank it has the numbers 40/200 with a little silver Harley symbol. I would love to know what this means. It's number 40 of something. Show less

I purchased this machine in 1998 and have ridden it often. It’s comfortable and and very stylish. I am often asked if this bike is new. It’s unique style and low miles make this Motorcycle a great purchase. Show less

The road king has Excellent ride quality.and a great seating position. It is great for long haul riding. just a little heavy backing up. So you just have to get used to the additional weight. Oh and BTY this is my wife's ride. She is 5ft 7in. Show less

I was looking for my bike for the last year and finally found it at Freedom Road Cycles and Sales in Wichita, Kansas. Shannon made it easy to purchase exactly what I wanted and was a pleasure to work with him. Show less

I just sold my 1999 K1200RS BMW. It was too uncomfortable for me. I got a "great" deal on a 2012 Road King. This is an all day-bike. It's comfortable and relaxing to ride. The new Brembo brakes do very well. The motor is a honey. The tranny is great. The new frame is very rigid. The bike handles well for a big machine. I added heated grips for the riding in cool weather in New Hampshire's fall. You will not be disappointed with this tourer. Show less

I owned a 2005 Road King with the twin cam 88 and loved the bike. But 10 klm. down the road I was convinced I'd made a great choice to trade her in. The refinement of the new RC is amazing - better motor, better frame, better brakes and transmission. I had to keep looking to see if I was on a Japanese sport bike. Show less

At 49 years of age, 6 feet tall and just over 300 pounds, I knew my first bike was not going to be a 250cc rice burner or current crop of Euro naked bikes. Nor was it going to be one of the smaller Harleys on the market either. So I went with the base model Road King and have not second guessed that decision yet. The bike is solid, sturdy, stable when it needs to be and responsive when you need it to be. Drawbacks? I have laid her on her side twice and at 850# she is a real bear to get back upright. Despite the advertising there is still a lot of vibration but that smoothes out the faster you go and even with after-market Rinehart pipes she still sounds like a riding lawnmower. I have no other motorcycle riding experience to base this on but for my dollar I do not think I could have bought a better first motorcycle. I commute with it regularly and have taken it up into the Colorado Rocky Mountains with ease. She is a real joy to ride. Worse thing: the vibration. Best thing: Setting off car alarms in parking garages. Show less