Harley-Davidson Road King Special - 2018 Specifications and Reviews

The 2018 Harley-Davidson Road King Special is a classic cruiser designed for riders seeking timeless styling and comfortable long-distance touring. Known for its iconic tank-mounted instrumentation, powerful braking system, and low seat height, it delivers the authentic Harley experience with modern convenience features like cruise control and electronic diagnostics for confident highway riding.

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General information

CategoryTouring
Year2018
ModelHarley-Davidson Road King Special
 
 

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Exhaust systemBlack, 2-1-2 dual exhaust with tapered mufflers
Greenhouse gases136.9 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Fuel consumption5.90 litres/100 km (16.9 km/l or 39.87 mpg)
DrivelineChain, 34/46 ratio primary drive
ClutchMulti-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath
Transmission type,final driveBelt
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemAir
Lubrication systemDry sump
Fuel controlDouble Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
Fuel systemInjection. Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection
Bore x Stroke98.4 x 111.3 mm (3.9 x 4.4 inches)
Compression9.6:1
Torque138.00 Nm (14.1 kgf-m or 101.8 ft.lbs) @ 3250 RPM
Power87.00 HP (63.5 kW) @ 5000 RPM
Engine detailsIntegrated Oil-Cooler
Engine typeV2, four-stroke

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

WheelsBlack, Turbine Cast Aluminum
Rear brakesSingle disc. ABS. 4-piston
Front brakesDouble disc. ABS. 4-piston
Rear tyre180/55-B18
Front tyre130/60-B19
Rear SuspensionTwin shocks
Front SuspensionTelescopic fork
Trail170 mm (6.7 inches)
Rake (fork angle)26.0°
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Oil capacity4.90 litres (0.32 quarts)
Fuel capacity22.71 litres (6.00 gallons)
Wheelbase1,625 mm (64.0 inches)
Ground clearance135 mm (5.3 inches)
Overall length2,420 mm (95.3 inches)
Seat height695 mm (27.4 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Power/weight ratio0.2451 HP/kg
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc372.0 kg (820.1 pounds)
Dry weight355.0 kg (782.6 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
CommentsWindshield. Cruise control. Security system.
Carrying capacitySaddle bags
LightHigh beam, running lights, front fender running lights, directional light bar, neutral, low oil pressure, engine diagnostics, turn signals, security system (optional), 6-speed, low fuel warning, cruise control (optional), ABS (optional)
InstrumentsTank-mounted electronic speedometer with odometer, time-of-day clock on odometer; dual trip meter; low fuel indicator light and mileage countdown feature; low oil pressure indicator light; engine diagnostics readout; LED indicator lights; 6-speed indicator light
StarterElectric
Color optionsVivid Black, Olive Gold, Industrial Gray Denim, Hard Candy Hot Rod Red Flake

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

87 hp
Peak Power
5.2s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track10%
City40%
Cornering45%
Daily Riding60%
Touring90%
Passenger85%

Rider Profile

Best ForBest for intermediate to experienced riders comfortable managing 800+ lbs of low-slung weight; not a beginner's first bike due to sheer mass.
PurposeA stripped-down bagger built for relaxed long-haul highway cruising and open-road touring with saddlebags, windshield and cruise control.
Rider FitLow 27.4in seat and forward controls give a laid-back stance; very heavy at 820 lbs wet, but weight carries low for planted feel once rolling.
CharacterClassic American V-twin muscle: massive 165Nm torque from the Milwaukee-Eight 114, effortless roll-on, and a commanding, nostalgic road presence.
Not Ideal ForNot for off-road, tight-corner sport riding, track days, or riders wanting a light, flickable machine for stop-and-go city commuting.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

2018 Harley-Davidson Road King Special Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 695mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2018 Harley-Davidson Road King Special, with a cramped knee angle of around 75 degrees and an upright riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

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Rider Reviews

Total comments: 1
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MotorcycleDB Review

The 2018 Harley-Davidson Road King Special motorcycle is a powerful and stylish ride that is sure to turn heads on the road. With its sleek blacked-out look and modern design, this bike is a standout in the Harley-Davidson lineup. The Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine delivers exceptional power and performance, while the bold styling and comfortable ride make it the perfect choice for long cruises or daily commutes. If you're looking for a reliable and impressive motorcycle, the 2018 Harley-Davidson Road King Special is a top choice. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a newcomer to the world of motorcycles, this bike offers a smooth and responsive ride that is bound to impress. With its top-notch engineering and attention to detail, the Road King Special is a true standout in the world of motorcycles.
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