2005 Harley-Davidson FLHPI Road King (Police)

Summary:

This is the only model bike I will ever own

Faults:

Strip shifter peg gets stripped every 25,000 miles.

Transmission seal leaked at 50,000 miles.

General Comments:

I don't have a car, so this is my only transportation.

Usually I put 25,000 miles a year on a bike, and this one was no different, and is my 14th bike since 1964.

I escort funerals on my time off, and this bike is quick in traffic and responds better with more stability than any of my previous bikes, to include Harleys.

On solo runs, I get about 170 miles before the reserve light comes on.

The Mustang seat is good for 8 hours of riding. After that I have to stop for an hour or so.

The custom Corbin seat takes the place of the radio rack, and is terrific for my wife's comfort.

This bike does better at 80 MPH than any other bike I've ever owned, so for long trips it's the best.

AND on this bike, the bags are accessible while stopped at lights, unlike the civilian Road King.

Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 22nd October, 2012

28th Sep 2014, 03:00

I also have a 2005 Road King FLHPI. 65,000 miles and still going strong. Just replaced the brake shoes, battery and fluids. This sled never let me down and I plan on keeping her a long time...

2005 Harley-Davidson FLHPI Road King (Police)

Summary:

A wonderful piece of engineering with an engine

Faults:

The only thing so far is a new battery at 19,000 miles.

Replaced both tires at 28,000 miles.

Speedometer has gone nuts at 31,000 miles, but have not checked the problem yet.

Other that that, it has not given me any trouble.

General Comments:

This is my first big street bike and my first Harley. Been wanting one for twenty years. I was looking at a Wide Glide or Low Rider. But this one came along with a great price. I was nervous at first, but found that it handles great. It takes hairpin curves with ease.

The 88 has plenty of power with me and the wife in the Ozark mountains. I found that I can do maneuvers that my buddies on Ultra Classics can't.

I probably will never sell it, but will buy another Harley for the wife. What model? Not sure yet.

Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 5th October, 2010

4th May 2011, 21:14

Great bike! This is my second year with mine, 2005 Road King Police. It's my 7th bike (first Harley), I waited 31 years for it. I hope I can ride for another 30 years.

Zigy.

21st Jun 2013, 21:49

Ziggy,

Glad you like your R.K., and now that you've logged miles and smiles and unquestionably still have that grin on your face, try a 150lb heavier bike. The Road Glide. I'm 100% certain you'll be smiling ear to ear on that one too. Good luck and keep the rubber side down.

2005 Harley-Davidson FLHPI Road King (Police)

Summary:

They don't call it a "Road King" for nothing

Faults:

The compensating sprocket loosened up at approx 3K. The pigtail for the brake light lost contact and left me without brake lights. The battery went at approx 4K and the rear tire got a flat at approx 5K.

General Comments:

This bike has the air adjustable police seat. You can easily sit on this seat for hours and be comfortable. Some people change it. They must be crazy. Just get the passenger P pad if you want to go two up. HD recommends changing the rear tire if you do this since the Dunlop D402 PT is not rated for two up riding.

The clutch is a real beauty and allows you to have pinpoint control. Handles real nice even at slow speeds.

I'm not a fan of the ABS. I'd get rid of it tomorrow if I could.

Easy bike to customize since it comes without any badges.

Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 1st March, 2008

2005 Harley-Davidson FLHPI Road King (Police)

Summary:

Road Kings... the best all around Harley

Faults:

The bike was delivered with a small dent/scrape in the rear fender. The dealer does not want to fix it. It is under the passenger pillion, but that is not the point.

The front brakes, while they work very well, seem to squeak.

My 2003 and 2001 both developed small leaks in the rocker box gaskets... maybe this one won't...

General Comments:

This is my fourth Road King. My others have been 2003, 2001, and 1998. Road Kings are a great combination on comfort and style. I've ridden to Sturgis, Daytona Beach, Canada, and Chillicothe Ohio (from Arkansas)... 700 - 800 miles in one day... no problem. They also hold their value better than the other touring bikes.

I have already replaced lots of things on the bike including the wheels, saddlebags, exhaust system, and seat. If you're not going to jack with the engine too much, get the fuel injected version... much smoother running. Gotta love that good old Milwaukee vibrator.

Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 23rd December, 2004