The 2002 Road King is a popular motorcycle model that has been around for almost two decades. While it is known for its classic look and unmatched performance, it is not without its flaws. In fact, the 2002 Road King has been associated with several problems that have caused headaches for its owners over the years.
One of the most frequently occurring 2002 Road King problems is its fuel system. Many owners have reported problems with the fuel pump, which can cause the bike to shut down unexpectedly while riding. This issue is mainly due to the EFI pressure in the 2002 Road King, which can cause the fuel pump to fail over time. On top of this, some owners have reported problems with fuel pressure and breaking hoses inside the gas tank.
Another issue that has plagued the 2002 Road King is its cruise control system. Many owners have reported failures with the stepper motor, which can cause the system to stop working altogether. While all other functions may work, the bike may fail to keep a constant speed; this is particularly frustrating for riders who rely on cruise control for long rides.
Common 2002 Road King Problems
Despite being a reliable bike overall, they have had their fair share of issues. Below is a list of the most common 2002 Road King problems:
Engine Issues
One of the major issues with the 2002 Road King is the cam chain tensioner. The original tensioners were prone to failure, which could lead to catastrophic engine damage. Many owners have replaced the original tensioner with an upgraded aftermarket version or a hydraulic tensioner to prevent this issue.
Another issue with the engine is the oil pump. The stock oil pump has been known to fail, leading to engine damage. Upgrading to a high-performance oil pump is recommended for those who want to avoid this issue.
Transmission Issues
The transmission on the 2002 Road King is pretty reliable, although there’s been a number of reports about the transmission popping out of gear. This issue can be caused by a worn shifter fork or a damaged shift drum. Replacing these parts can fix the issue.
Another issue with the transmission is the clutch. The stock clutch can wear out quickly, especially if the bike is ridden aggressively. Upgrading to a high-performance clutch can help prevent premature wear.
Electrical Issues
This is another one of the 2002 Road King problems. The bike’s charging system can be prone to failure, which can lead to a dead battery. Upgrading to a high-output charging system can help prevent this issue.
Another common electrical issue is the turn signal module. The stock module can fail, causing the turn signals to stop working. Replacing the module with an aftermarket version can fix the issue.
Less Common 2002 Road King Problems
Brake Issues
While brake issues are not as common in the 2002 Road King as they are in some other models, there are still a few things to watch out for. One issue is the brake pads wearing out too quickly. This can be because of a few different reasons, including riding style, brake fluid contamination, and poor-quality brake pads. Have your brakes inspected often to catch any issues early on.
Another issue that some riders have reported is a soft or spongy brake pedal. This can be caused by air in the brake lines, a worn master cylinder, or a problem with the brake calipers. If you notice a softer-than-usual feel in your brake, have it checked out by a mechanic and ensure your brakes are working properly; this is something you don’t want to fail you.
Suspension Issues
The suspension on the 2002 Road King is generally reliable, but there are a few issues that have been reported by some riders. One issue is a tendency for the rear suspension to bottom out under heavy loads or during aggressive riding. This is caused by worn or damaged shocks or by an improperly adjusted suspension. If you notice that your suspension is bottoming out, it’s important to have it inspected by a professional mechanic.
Another issue that some riders have reported is a wobbling or shaking sensation in the front end of the bike at high speeds. This can be because of worn or damaged steering bearings, a misaligned front wheel, or an improperly adjusted suspension. If you experience any wobbling or shaking in the front end of your bike, pop over to your local mechanic and get it sorted.
Fuel System Issues
The fuel system on the 2002 Road King is generally reliable, but there are a few issues that have been reported by some riders. One issue is a tendency for the fuel pump to fail prematurely. Things like contaminated fuel, a clogged fuel filter, or a faulty fuel pump relay can be the cause. If you notice that your bike is having trouble starting or running poorly, it’s possible that you have a problem with your fuel pump.
Another issue that some riders have reported is a tendency for the bike to run hot or to have vapor lock issues. A faulty fuel pressure regulator, a clogged fuel injector, or a problem with the fuel tank venting system can be the root of the issue. If you notice that your bike is running hot or is experiencing vapor lock issues, get it checked asap!
Preventive Maintenance
Regular Service
Regular service is essential to keep your 2002 Road King running smoothly. At the bare minimum, to keep your bike in top condition, you should:
- Measure and change the oil.
- Check the air filter and replace it as required.
- Check brake pads and replace them as required (don’t cheap out here).
- Check spark plugs and replace them as often as the maintenance schedule says.
- Check the battery and replace it if it’s weak or not holding a charge.
Fluid Changes
Changing the fluids in your bike is important to prevent 2002 Road King problems and keep your bike running smoothly. Here are the fluids you should change regularly:
| Fluid | Interval |
| Engine oil | Every 5,000 miles |
| Transmission oil | Every 10,000 miles |
| Primary oil | Every 10,000 miles |
| Brake fluid | Every 2 years |
Tire Maintenance
Proper tire maintenance is important for safety and performance. Below are some tips for keeping your tires in good condition:
- Check tire pressure often and pump up if needed.
- Inspect the tires for wear and damage and replace them if necessary.
- Balance the tires regularly to prevent vibration and uneven wear.