Harley-Davidson Road King Special - 2021 Specifications and Reviews

The 2021 Harley-Davidson Road King Special is a classic heavyweight cruiser touring motorcycle designed for riders seeking long-distance comfort with authentic Harley styling. Powered by the Milwaukee-Eight 114 V-twin engine producing 100 horsepower and 160 Nm of torque, it delivers smooth, reliable performance ideal for highway cruising and extended road trips. Known for its iconic design, premium features, and commanding presence, the Road King Special appeals to experienced riders who value tradition and touring capability.

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General information

Price as new3.6  See the detailed rating of touring capabilities, reliability, accident risk, etc. Compare with any other motorbike.
CategoryTouring
Year2021
ModelHarley-Davidson Road King Special
 
 

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Greenhouse gases121.3 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Fuel consumption5.23 litres/100 km (19.1 km/l or 44.98 mpg)
DrivelineChain, 34/46 ratio primary drive
ClutchMulti-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath
Transmission typeBelt   (final drive)
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemAir
Lubrication systemDry sump
Fuel controlDouble Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
Fuel systemInjection. Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection
Bore x Stroke102.0 x 114.3 mm (4.0 x 4.5 inches)
Compression10.5:1
Torque160.0 Nm (16.3 kgf-m or 118.0 ft.lbs) @ 3250 RPM
Power100.0 HP (73.0 kW) @ 5000 RPM
Engine detailsMilwaukee-Eight 114
Engine typeV2, four-stroke
Capacity:1868.0 ccm (113.99 cubic inches)

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

Rear brakesSingle disc. ABS. 4-piston
Front brakesDouble disc. ABS. 4-piston
Rear tire180/55-B18
Front tire130/60-B19
Rear SuspensionTwin shocks
Front SuspensionTelescopic fork
Trail175 mm (6.9 inches)
Rake (fork angle)26.0°
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Oil capacity4.90 litres (5.18 US quarts)
Fuel capacity22.71 litres (6.00 US gallons)
Wheelbase1625 mm (64.0 inches)
Ground clearance124 mm (4.9 inches)
Overall length2420 mm (95.3 inches)
Seat height671 mm (26.4 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Power/weight ratio0.2848 HP/kg
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc366.1 kg (807.0 pounds)
Dry weight351.1 kg (774.0 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
CommentsCruise control. Security system.
Carrying capacitySaddle bags
LightHigh beam, running lights, directional light bar, neutral, low oil pressure, engine diagnostics, turn signals, battery, security system, low fuel warning, cruise control, ABS, Gear/RPM display, miles to empty display
InstrumentsDisplay features odometer, trip A, trip B, range to empty and gear indicator; and larger tell-tale indicators.
StarterElectric
Color optionsVivid Black, Deadwood Green, Snake Venom Green, Black Jack Metallic

Maintenance and service data

Fork tube size49 mm (1.9 inches)
Tire pressure rear41 PSI (2.8 Bar or 280 kPa)
Tire pressure front36 PSI (2.5 Bar or 250 kPa)
Belt teeth140
Sprockets32/68 (front/rear)
Idle speed850 RPM
Spark plugsNGK CR9E, NGK CR9EIX
BatteryYIX30L

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

2021 Harley-Davidson Road King Special Rider Ergonomics Assessment

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

Feet:

At 671mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2021 Harley-Davidson Road King Special, with a cramped knee angle of around 75 degrees and a slightly forward 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 2021 Harley-Davidson Road King Special is a powerful and stylish motorcycle that delivers an exceptional riding experience. With its Milwaukee-Eight 114 engine and sleek design, this bike is perfect for those who crave power and performance. The Road King Special also features a bold and aggressive look, with blacked-out finishes and a stretched saddlebags, making it a standout on the road. In addition to its impressive performance, the 2021 Harley-Davidson Road King Special offers a comfortable and smooth ride, thanks to its responsive suspension and ergonomic design. Whether you're cruising on the open highway or navigating through city streets, this motorcycle handles with ease and precision. Overall, the Road King Special is a top-tier motorcycle that offers a perfect blend of power, style, and comfort for riders who demand the best.
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