2000–2006 Harley-Davidson Police Twin Cam 88 (FLHP Road King)

Of course. Here is the full article written to your specifications.

The 2000–2006 Harley-Davidson Police Twin Cam 88 (FLHP Road King) is a purpose-built law enforcement motorcycle that served as a frontline vehicle for police departments across North America. Based on the civilian FLHR Road King platform, the police model was significantly enhanced for the rigors of patrol duty. This generation marked a pivotal transition for Harley-Davidson’s fleet vehicles, introducing the more powerful and reliable Twin Cam 88 engine, which replaced the long-serving Evolution engine used in previous police models.

Advancement from the Evolution Engine

The primary distinction between the 2000–2006 police models and their predecessors was the introduction of the Twin Cam 88 engine. The previous generation relied on the 1340cc (82 cu in) Evolution engine, a reliable but aging design. The new Twin Cam 88, displacing 1450cc (88 cu in), offered substantial improvements critical for police work:

Increased Power and Torque: The Twin Cam engine provided a noticeable boost in horsepower and, more importantly, low-end torque. This allowed for quicker acceleration from a standstill and better performance when carrying the heavy load of police equipment.
Improved Cooling and Durability: The engine was designed for better thermal management, a crucial factor for motorcycles that spend significant time idling or moving slowly in traffic and parades. Internal improvements, including a more robust crankcase and an enhanced internal oil pump, contributed to greater long-term reliability under severe-duty conditions.
Smoother Operation:** While still possessing the characteristic Harley-Davidson feel, the Twin Cam was a more refined powertrain, reducing rider fatigue over long shifts.

This transition from the Evolution to the Twin Cam 88 established a new performance benchmark for Harley-Davidson’s police fleet.

Features of the Harley-Davidson Police Twin Cam 88

Beyond the engine, the FLHP Road King was distinguished from its civilian counterpart by a host of specialized features designed specifically for law enforcement use. These modifications ensured the motorcycle could function effectively as a mobile patrol unit.

Chassis and Ergonomics

The motorcycle was built on Harley-Davidson’s heavy-duty touring frame. To accommodate the added weight of communications gear, lighting, and other equipment, it featured upgraded suspension components. The front forks and rear shock absorbers were calibrated for a firmer ride to maintain stability and control.

A key ergonomic feature was the solo saddle, which was typically an air-adjustable seat. This allowed individual officers to set the seat’s firmness for optimal comfort and support during long hours of patrol. The traditional passenger seat was replaced with a rack designed to mount a police radio and other essential hardware.

Electrical and Law Enforcement Systems

One of the most significant upgrades on the police model was its electrical system. The FLHP was equipped with a high-output alternator designed to handle the substantial electrical load of emergency lights, sirens, radios, and other onboard electronics.

The motorcycle came from the factory with specialized wiring harnesses and dedicated switches for police equipment. Handlebar-mounted switch housings provided officers with intuitive control over sirens and emergency lighting without having to remove their hands from the grips. These “plug-and-play” provisions simplified the process for police departments to upfit the motorcycles with their specific equipment packages. Common additions included front and rear pursuit lights (often referred to as “wig-wags”), a siren, and a mount for a shotgun or rifle in a locking rack.

In Service

The 2000–2006 FLHP Road King became a ubiquitous sight in police motorcades, traffic enforcement units, and community parades. Its imposing presence, combined with the distinctive sound of its V-twin engine, made it an effective tool for maintaining public order and engaging with the community. Departments valued its rugged construction, extensive dealer support network for service, and the general reliability of the Twin Cam platform for demanding daily use.

Specifications Table

General
Brand Harley-Davidson
Model FLHP Road King
Model Class Police
Model Year 2000–2006
Type Patrol / Cruiser
Maximum mass ~1260 lb. (571 kg) (GVWR)
Maximum passengers 1 (Operator)
Performance
Max. power ~67 Hp / 5200 RPM
Max. torque ~86 ft-lb (117 N•m) / 3500 RPM
Top designed speed ~105 mph (169 km/h)
Size
Length 94.5 in. (2400 mm)
Width 34.5 in. (876 mm)
Height ~60 in. (1524 mm, windshield included)
Wheelbase 63.5 in. (1613 mm)
Seat height ~27.2 in. (691 mm) (Laden, with solo seat)
Ground clearance 5.1 in. (130 mm)
Curb weight ~810 lb. (367 kg) (Varies with equipment)
Engine
Type Air-Cooled, 45° V-Twin, Four Stroke, OHV
Displacement 1450 cc (88 cu in)
Bore × Stroke 3.75 in. × 4.00 in. (95.3 mm × 101.6 mm)
Compression ratio 8.9:1
Starting system Electric starter
Fuel supplying system Carburetor or Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Ignition control system Electronic
Lubricating system Dry-sump
Oil capacity 4.0 qt (3.8 L)
Engine oil type SAE 20W-50 Harley-Davidson H-D 360
Idle speed 950-1050 RPM
Transmission
Transmission type 5-speed, manual gear shift
Clutch type Wet, multi-disc, manual
Driving system Belt drive
Primary reduction ratio 1.440
Final reduction ratio 2.187
Chassis
Tire size Front: MT90B16; Rear: MU85B16
Rim size Front: 16 in.; Rear: 16 in.
Capacity of fuel tank 5.0 gal (18.9 L)
Fuel consumption ~35-45 MPG (City/Highway)
Electric
Battery 12V / 28 Ah
Charging System High-Output Three-phase Alternator (~45-Amp)
Headlight Halogen
Shock Absorbers
Front Suspension 41.3 mm telescopic forks
Front travel 4.6 in (117 mm)
Rear Suspension Air-adjustable shock absorbers
Rear travel 3.0 in (76 mm)
Scroll to Top