1998 Road King Problems and Solutions

When it comes to motorcycles, the Harley Davidson Road King is a classic choice for riders who want a comfortable and powerful ride. However, the 1998 model year of the Road King has been known to have some issues that riders should be aware of. In this article, we will discuss some of the common 1998 Road King problems owners have experienced.

One of the fundamental engine issues that 1998 Road King owners have reported is a problem with the cam bearings. This can cause the engine to make a knocking noise and lead to serious engine damage if not addressed promptly. Additionally, some owners have reported issues with the fuel system, which can cause the bike to stall or run poorly. These issues can be frustrating and costly to fix, but there are steps that riders can take to prevent them from occurring.

In addition to these fundamental engine issues, some riders have reported problems with the design and comfort of the 1998 Road King. For example, the stock seat can be uncomfortable for long rides, and the windscreen may vibrate loose at high speeds. However, many owners have found ways to address these issues through aftermarket parts and modifications. By taking maintenance seriously and seeking out advice from the Road King community, owners of 1998 models can continue to enjoy their bikes for years to come.

Key Takeaways

• 1998 Road Kings have had issues with cam bearings and the fuel system.
• Some riders have reported problems with the design and comfort of the bike.
• Regular maintenance and seeking advice from the community can help prevent and address these problems.

Fundamental Engine Issues

When it comes to the 1998 Road King, there are a few fundamental engine issues that owners should be aware of. In this section, we will discuss some of the most common 1998 Road King problems that you might encounter with your Road King’s engine.

Twin Cam Vs Evo

The 1998 Road King was the last year for the Evo motor, which was replaced by the Twin Cam model the following year. While the Twin Cam motor is generally considered to be an improvement over the Evo, there are some owners who prefer the older motor. The Evo motor has a simpler design and is generally easier to work on, while the Twin Cam motor offers better performance and is more reliable.

Cam Bearing and Stator Problems

One of the most common 1998 Road King problems that owners encounter is cam bearing and stator problems. The cam bearings can wear out over time, which can cause the engine to make a loud knocking noise. The stator, which is responsible for charging the battery, can also fail, which can cause the bike to stop running altogether.

Fuel Injection and Carb Issues

The 1998 Road King was one of the first Harley-Davidson models to come with fuel injection as standard. While fuel injection is generally more reliable than carburetors, there are some issues that owners should be aware of. The fuel injection system can be sensitive to changes in temperature and altitude, which can cause the bike to run poorly. Carbureted models can also have problems with the carburetor, which can cause the bike to run rich or lean.

In conclusion, it is very important for owners of the 1998 Road King to be aware of these fundamental engine issues. Whether you have an Evo or Twin Cam model, you may encounter problems with cam bearings and the stator. Additionally, fuel injection and carburetor issues can cause problems with the bike’s performance. If you experience any of these problems, it’s important to take your bike to a qualified mechanic who can diagnose and repair the issue.

Road King Design and Comfort

When it comes to design and comfort, the Road King Classic and Standard models are two of the most popular Harley-Davidson motorcycles on the market. Both models have a classic look and feel, but there are some differences that set them apart.

Road King Classic Vs Standard

The Road King Classic has more of a vintage look and comes with a few extra features such as leather saddlebags, a windshield, and a passenger backrest. The Standard model, on the other hand, has a more stripped-down design and is a bit lighter than the Classic.

Suspension and Handling

One of the key aspects of any motorcycle is its suspension and handling. The Road King has a Softail suspension system that provides a smooth ride, but it’s not as good as some of the other Harley-Davidson models. The handling is also good, but it’s not as nimble as some of the other bikes in the Harley lineup.

Road King Comfort

When it comes to comfort, the Road King is a mixed bag. The seat is comfortable and the riding position is upright, which is great for longer rides. However, the windscreen is not very effective, and the tank capacity is only 4.9 gallons, which means more frequent stops at the gas station.

In terms of wheels, the Road King comes with 16-inch tires, which provide good traction and stability on the road. The brakes are also good, but they could be better, especially for a bike of this size.

Overall, the Road King is a comfortable and reliable motorcycle that is perfect for riders who want a classic look and feel. However, it’s important to ride safe and be aware of the bike’s handling limitations.

Maintenance and Community Insights

Common Maintenance Issues

Maintaining your 1998 Road King is very important to ensure it runs smoothly and efficiently. One common issue that many riders face is with the drive belt. It is important to check the tension of the drive belt regularly and adjust it as necessary, as a loose belt can cause power loss and even damage the clutch. Another issue that riders may face is with the idle. If your Road King has an erratic idle, it could be due to a faulty temp sensor or other sensor. It is important to have the bike checked by a dealer or mechanic to diagnose and fix the issue.

Additionally, it is important to regularly check and tighten bolts and engine mounts. Loose bolts can cause various issues, including power loss, vibration, and even dangerous situations. It is also important to keep an eye on fuel mileage and replace the fuel filter as necessary to ensure optimal performance.

Harley Davidson Community Feedback

As a motorcycle enthusiast, we know that the Harley Davidson community is a great resource for information and support. Many Road King riders have shared their experiences and insights regarding common issues and maintenance tips.

Some riders have reported issues with the alternator and rotor, which can cause electrical 1998 Road King problems and even lead to the bike not starting. It is important to have these components checked regularly and replaced as necessary. Others have suggested upgrading to adjustable push rods to improve performance and reduce wear on the engine.

Overall, the Harley Davidson Road King is a bulletproof machine that can provide years of reliable service with proper maintenance. We highly recommend following the maintenance schedule outlined in the owner’s manual and seeking advice from experienced riders in the Harley Davidson community.