Of course. Here is a full article about the 2002–2003 Harley-Davidson CVO Twin Cam 103 (FLHRSE Road King), written in the requested style and format.
Harley-Davidson CVO Twin Cam 103 (FLHRSE Road King)
The Harley-Davidson CVO Twin Cam 103, first featured in the 2002 FLHRSEI Road King, marked a significant evolution in Harley-Davidson’s factory custom motorcycle program. Produced by the Custom Vehicle Operations (CVO) division, this model was designed to offer customers a limited-edition, highly accessorized motorcycle with a level of performance and detail previously available only through extensive aftermarket customization. The FLHRSEI (and its 2003 successor, the FLHRSEI2) established the Road King as a premier platform for the CVO treatment and introduced the potent 103-cubic-inch “Stroker” Twin Cam engine to a wider audience, setting a new benchmark for factory-built performance cruisers.
The CVO program’s mission is to build exclusive, low-volume motorcycles that showcase the pinnacle of Harley-Davidson styling, components, and power. The 2002 Screamin’ Eagle Road King was the first touring model to receive this comprehensive treatment, transforming the already popular Road King into a rolling work of art with the muscle to match its looks.
Key Differences from the Standard Road King
The distinction between the standard FLHR Road King and the FLHRSE CVO model was substantial and went far beyond a simple paint job. The CVO version was a ground-up reimagining, focused on exclusivity, performance, and a premium finish.
The Screamin’ Eagle Harley-Davidson CVO Twin Cam 103 Engine
The most significant upgrade was the powertrain. While the standard Road King of the era was equipped with the 1450cc (88 cubic inch) Twin Cam 88 engine, the CVO model received the Screamin’ Eagle 1690cc (103 cubic inch) Twin Cam engine. This was not merely a larger bore; it was a fully engineered “stroker” motor, featuring a longer stroke and larger pistons. It was paired with Harley-Davidson’s high-flow Screamin’ Eagle performance heads, a high-performance clutch, and tuned for significantly increased horsepower and torque right from the factory. This gave the CVO Road King a commanding performance advantage, delivering stronger acceleration and passing power across the RPM range. The engine was also treated to extensive chrome and custom finishes, making it a visual centerpiece.
Exclusive Styling and Finishes
Visually, the CVO Road King was unmistakable. Each year featured a limited, multi-layered paint scheme that was unavailable on any other model. The 2002 FLHRSEI was offered in Stardust Silver and Screamin’ Eagle Purple, featuring hand-laid graphics. The 2003 FLHRSEI2 celebrated the company’s 100th Anniversary with a stunning Centennial Gold and Vivid Black scheme, accented with gold leaf graphics.
Beyond the paint, the motorcycle was adorned with an exhaustive amount of chrome. Key chromed components included the front forks, switch housings, hand levers, master cylinders, and brake calipers. This “dipped-in-chrome” aesthetic was a hallmark of the CVO line and contributed to the bike’s premium, custom look.
Premium Components and Accessories
The CVO models came factory-equipped with a host of accessories that were optional or unavailable on the standard Road King. These included:
Custom Wheels: The bike featured distinctive “Thunderstar” custom chrome wheels, which became an iconic part of its look.
Custom Seating: A specially designed low-profile seat, often with exotic leather inserts, provided a unique riding position and enhanced style.
Handlebars and Controls: The motorcycle was fitted with wider, custom handlebars, braided stainless steel control cables, and hydraulic clutch lines for a cleaner look and improved feel.
Instruments: Silver-faced gauges for the speedometer and tachometer were exclusive to the CVO model.
Bags and Bodywork: The hard-shell saddlebags were covered in leather, and the bike featured a unique, low-profile front fender and a color-matched frame, swingarm, and oil tank.
Model Year Specifics and Legacy
The 2002 FLHRSEI laid the foundation, introducing the CVO Road King concept to the world. The 2003 FLHRSEI2 built upon that success, incorporating all the same custom features but distinguishing itself with the coveted 100th Anniversary badging and paint scheme, making it particularly sought-after by collectors.
The launch of the Screamin’ Eagle Road King was a defining moment for Harley-Davidson. It proved there was a strong market for a turn-key, factory-warranted custom touring bike with elite performance. It set the template for all future CVO touring models, which continue to represent the most exclusive and powerful motorcycles in the Harley-Davidson lineup.
Specifications**
| General | |
| Brand | Harley-Davidson |
| Model | Road King CVO (Screamin’ Eagle) |
| Model Class | FLHRSEI / FLHRSEI2 |
| Model Year | 2002–2003 |
| Type | Touring / Cruiser |
| Maximum mass (GVWR) | 1259 lb. (571 kg) |
| Maximum passengers | 2 |
| Performance | |
| Max. power | Approx. 82 Hp (61 Kw) @ 5200 RPM |
| Max. torque | Approx. 98 ft-lb (133 N•m) @ 3500 RPM |
| Top designed speed | Approx. 115 mph (185 km/h) |
| Size | |
| Length | 93.7 in. (2380 mm) |
| Width | 34.5 in. (876 mm) |
| Height | 55.1 in. (1400 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 63.5 in. (1613 mm) |
| Seat height | 26.9 in. (683 mm) |
| Ground clearance | 5.1 in. (130 mm) |
| Curb weight | Approx. 760 lb. (345 kg) |
| Engine | |
| Type | 45° V-Twin, Air-cooled, Four Stroke |
| Displacement | 103 cubic inches (1690 cc) |
| Bore × Stroke | 3.875 in. × 4.375 in. (98.4 mm × 111.1 mm) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Starting system | Electric starter |
| Fuel supplying system | Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) |
| Ignition control system | ECU Ignition |
| Lubricating system | Dry-sump, pressure lubrication |
| Oil capacity | 4.0 qt (3.8 L) |
| Engine oil type | SAE 20W-50 Harley-Davidson H-D 360 |
| Transmission | |
| Transmission type | 5-speed, manual gear shift |
| Clutch type | Wet, multi-disc, manual (high-performance) |
| Driving system | Belt drive |
| Primary reduction ratio | 1.440 (36/25) |
| Final reduction ratio | 2.188 (70/32) |
| Gear ratio | 1st: 10.110; 2nd: 6.958; 3rd: 4.953; 4th: 3.862; 5th: 3.150 |
| Chassis | |
| Tire size | Front: MT90B16; Rear: MU85B16 |
| Rim size | Front: 16 in. x 3.0 in.; Rear: 16 in. x 3.0 in. (Thunderstar Custom) |
| Capacity of fuel tank | 5.0 gal (18.9 L) |
| Fuel consumption | Approx. 42 MPG (5.6 L / 100 km) combined |
| Electric | |
| Battery | 12V / 28 Ah |
| Headlight | Sealed Beam |
| Shock Absorbers | |
| Front travel | 4.6 in (117 mm) |
| Rear travel | 3.0 in (76 mm) |
| Rear suspension | Air-adjustable shocks |
