The 2009 Road King is a classic touring motorcycle that has been popular among Harley-Davidson enthusiasts for many years. However, like any other motorcycle model, it has its fair share of problems. Some of these problems are minor, while others can be quite serious and affect the performance and safety of the rider.
One big issue with the 2009 Road King problems is the handling problems. Many riders have reported experiencing a shimmy or wobble at high speeds, which can be quite dangerous. In addition, some riders have reported problems with the tires, such as uneven wear or blowouts, which can also affect the handling and safety of the motorcycle.
Another issue that has been reported with the 2009 Road King is overheating. The cause of this can include a lean fuel mixture, a faulty cooling system, or a clogged air filter. Overheating can cause serious damage to any engine and other components of the motorcycle, so don’t wait around on this one, you could end up replacing a whole engine if you don’t fix it fast enough.
Engine Problems
If you’re experiencing 2009 Road King problems with the engine, you’re not alone. Let’s dive into the issues and how to identify them:
Oil Consumption Issues
Another one of the 2009 Road King problems is excessive oil consumption. If you notice that your bike is burning through oil more quickly than usual, it could be a sign of a problem. Some possible causes of oil consumption issues include:
- Worn piston rings
- Worn valve seals
- Faulty oil pump
If you suspect that your bike is experiencing oil consumption issues, it’s important to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic. Best not to ignore any engine issues as it could become an expensive exercise very quickly.
Engine Misfires
Another one of the common 2009 Road King problems is misfiring. Misfiring is caused by a whole heap of different things; some of these include:
- Faulty spark plugs
- Dirty fuel injectors
- Faulty ignition coils
Engine misfires can cause your bike to run rough or stall and can also lead to damage to the catalytic converter. If you’re experiencing engine misfires, get yourself to a garage and have them check it out before something even more serious pops up.
Engine Stalling
Finally, engine stalling is another one of the common 2009 Road King problems. This could be due to a few reasons, including:
- Faulty fuel pump
- Dirty fuel filter
- Faulty throttle position sensor
If your bike is stalling while you’re riding, it’s important to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. Ignoring the problem could lead to serious safety issues.
Transmission Problems
The 2009 Road King model is known to have transmission issues. Here are some of the most common transmission problems that owners have reported:
Clutch Slippage
One of the most common transmission problems that owners of the 2009 Road King have reported is clutch slippage. This problem occurs when the clutch fails to engage properly, causing the engine to rev up without the bike moving forward. The most common cause of clutch slippage is a worn or damaged clutch plate, which will need to be replaced.
Transmission Noise
Another common transmission problem that owners of the 2009 Road King have reported is transmission noise. This problem can manifest as a whining or grinding noise coming from the transmission while the bike is in motion. The most common cause of transmission noise is worn or damaged gears, which will need to be replaced.
Gear Shifting Issues
Owners of the 2009 Road King have also reported issues with gear shifting. This problem can manifest as difficulty shifting gears, gears slipping out of place, or the transmission getting stuck in one gear. The most common cause of gear shifting issues is a worn or damaged shift fork, which will need to be replaced.
It is important to note that these transmission problems are not unique to the 2009 Road King model and can occur in any motorcycle with a manual transmission. Regularly servicing your bike can help ensure transmission problems stay away, and prompt repairs of existing issues can help minimize damage and prevent further problems from developing.
Electrical Problems
Electrical issues are one of the common 2009 Road King problems. These issues can be frustrating and difficult to diagnose. Let’s get stuck into the common electrical problems you may encounter with your 2009 Road King.
Battery Issues
The battery is probably the most essential component of your motorcycle’s electrical system; without it, the bike will never fire up. If you’re experiencing problems with the battery, it can affect the entire electrical system. One common problem is a dead battery. If your battery is dead, your motorcycle won’t start. You may also experience problems with the battery not holding a charge or the battery not charging properly. If you encounter any of these issues, it’s important to check the battery and charging system.
Starter Problems
The starter turns the engine over and gets it started. If you’re having problems with the starter, you may experience difficulty starting your motorcycle. One common problem is a starter that won’t engage. This can be caused by a bad starter motor or an issue with the solenoid. Another common issue is a starter that engages but doesn’t turn the engine over. This is usually because of a weak battery.
Charging System Malfunctions
The whole purpose of the charging system is to keep the battery charged while the bike is running. If you’re experiencing problems with the charging system, you may notice that your battery is constantly dead or not holding a charge.
One super annoying problem is a faulty voltage regulator. This is solely responsible for regulating the amount of voltage that goes to the battery. If the voltage regulator is not working properly, it will make the battery overcharge or not charge at all, most likely the latter.
If you’re experiencing any of these electrical problems with your 2009 Road King, make sure you have them diagnosed quickly and repaired as soon as possible. Ignoring any of these issues will lead to more serious problems down the road, one that will cause you more of a headache.
Suspension Problems
The 2009 Road King problems have been known to include issues with its suspension system. These problems can lead to a less comfortable ride and even pose a safety hazard. Let’s check out some crucial suspension problems that owners of 2009 Road Kings have reported:
Front Suspension Issues
Another not-so-exciting complaint about the 2009 Road King is its front suspension system. Many owners have reported that the front suspension is too stiff, making for an uncomfortable ride on bumpy roads. Some have even reported that the front suspension bottoms out, which can be dangerous when riding at high speeds.
To address this issue, some owners have installed aftermarket suspension components, such as Race-Tech emulators, springs, and fork oil. These upgrades can improve the front suspension’s performance and make for a more comfortable ride. This can be costly and may require professional installation.
Rear Suspension Issues
Another common suspension problem with the 2009 Road King is its rear suspension system. Many owners have reported that the rear suspension is too soft, causing the bike to bottom out when carrying a passenger or heavy load. This can be especially problematic when riding on rough roads or over speed bumps.
To address this issue, some owners have installed aftermarket rear shocks or air suspension systems. These upgrades can provide better support and adjustability, making for a more comfortable ride. However, as with front suspension upgrades, these upgrades can be costly and may require professional installation.
Steering Problems
While not as common as suspension issues, some owners of 2009 Road Kings have reported problems with the bike’s steering system. Specifically, some owners have reported that the bike’s handlebars can become loose or wobbly, making it difficult to control the bike. This can be especially dangerous when riding at high speeds or in heavy traffic.
To address this issue, it’s important to regularly inspect the bike’s steering components and tighten any loose bolts or nuts. If the problem continues, you might need to replace the bike’s steering components entirely.
Brake Problems
One of the biggest and most alarming 2009 Road King problems is brake problems. Here are some of the most common brake problems:
Brake Pad Wear
Brake pads are designed to wear over time, but excessive wear can lead to issues. Some owners of the 2009 Road King have reported that their brake pads wear out too quickly. This is caused by aggressive riding, poor-quality brake pads, or issues with the brake system itself.
If you feel your brake pads are wearing out too quickly, it’s important to have your brake system inspected by a professional.
Brake Rotor Issues
Another one of the common 2009 Road King problems is issues with the brake rotors. Some owners have reported that their brake rotors warp or become damaged over time. This can lead to issues with braking performance and can become a very serious problem if not rectified.
If you notice that your brake rotors are warped or damaged, it’s important to have them replaced as soon as possible. A professional mechanic can help you select the right replacement rotors for your bike and ensure that they are installed correctly.
Brake Fluid Leaks
Finally, some owners of the 2009 Road King have reported issues with brake fluid leaks. This can be because of a number of factors, and this includes worn brake lines, damaged brake calipers, or issues with the master cylinder.
If you notice that your brake fluid is leaking, it’s important to have your bike inspected by a professional mechanic. They can help you identify the source of the leak and recommend a solution. In some cases, a simple repair could be all that’s required, while in other cases, more extensive repairs may be required.
Final Verdict On 2009 Road King Problems
Overall, the 2009 Harley Davidson Road King is a great touring bike with classic 50s styling that still looks great today. But, everything encounters issues eventually, some people have reported issues with the transmission and engine.
Many owners have reported transmission problems, with the shift mechanism failing and the transmission being switched from first gear. Also, some owners have experienced issues with the engine and fuel tank on the 2003 model, as well as modifications being made to all features on the 2003-2009 models.
It’s important to do your due diligence and consider these reported issues before purchasing a used 2009 Road King or any Road King from the years to avoid. However, it’s also important to note that not all bikes will experience these issues, and maintaining your bike properly can go a long way in preventing problems.
If you do decide to purchase a 2009 Road King, it’s recommended to have a trusted mechanic inspect the bike thoroughly before making the purchase. This can help identify any potential issues and ease your mind when purchasing.