IT’S easy to see why this bike has been given the moniker “Classic”.
Just look at that retro-styling – all the gleaming chrome, the wide-set handlebars, huge shiny headlight, spoked wheels, 1940s-style front mudguard, the floorboards, the big saddlebags and, of course, those stand-out whitewall tyres.
Climb aboard and you sink satisfyingly into the big bucket touring seat.
The riding position is upright and commanding, and at the same time laidback and comfortable, especially with your feet up on those big floorboards.
A large round analogue speedometer is set into the fuel tank, along with the other cockpit information, including gear indicator.
The fuel indicator is cleverly set into a lookalike chrome petrol cap on the left-hand side of the tank.
That big iconic headlight isn’t just for show, it’s super bright with a mix of halogen and LED, and is backed up by a pair of halogen fog lights.
Indicators are also extra bright and, unlike most Japanese and European bikes, are operated with individual switches, one on the left-hand control, one on the right.
Stuff the hands-free fob in your jacket pocket as you leave the house and it automatically deactivates the electronic security system as you approach the bike – neat.
Fire her up and there’s that unmistakable rumble of a big V-twin Harley motor – all 103 cubic inches of it – marvellous.
Make no mistake, this is a big and rather heavy beast and is not most at home on the traffic-filled streets of a small Sussex town.
Nevertheless, I actually found it to be more nimble than I expected at low speed and it is easy to lean it way over when negotiating the roundabouts.
But, this is a cruiser after all and it’s out on the open highway where the Road King really belongs.
Twist the throttle and the torque from that big V-twin kicks in.
Power delivery is smooth and positive through the six-speed transmission.
Gear changing is via a toe-heel shifter mounted above the full-length floorboard and comes with an unmistakable loud mechanical clunk each time you engage – like it.
I found the motor pleasingly responsive, particularly when opening it up from around 60mph and onwards.
The large windshield does a good job, but if you prefer “naked” riding it is easily detachable without the need for any tools.
The Road King features Harley’s “reflex-linked” ABS braking system.
This clever technology links the front and rear brakes so that, particularly under heavy braking at speed, the two are applied in the optimum ratios for safe braking.
Where necessary, the system works to activate both brakes, even if you apply only one - but does not interfere at low speeds or under gentle braking.
Round the bends the cruiser is pleasantly stable and the Dunlop tyres and Brembo disc brakes inspire the confidence to hit the corners with a surprising degree of aggression.
Then open the throttle as you sweep out, feel and hear the V-twin power driving you on and you’ll feel like you’re the King of the Road.
The Facts:
H-D Road King Classic
Engine: 1690cc V-twin
Colours: White/pearl; red/black; gold; silver; black
Price: £17,595
