2012–2016 Harley-Davidson Touring Twin Cam 103 (FLHTK Ultra Limited)

The primary distinction from the previous generation of Touring models was the engine. The Twin Cam 96, which displaced 96 cubic inches (1584 cc), was a capable motor, but the upgrade to the 103 cubic inch (1690 cc) engine provided a noticeable and welcome increase in performance. This wasn’t just a matter of peak horsepower; the Twin Cam 103 was tuned to deliver more low-end torque, which is critical for a fully-loaded touring machine. Riders experienced stronger acceleration for highway merging, more confident two-up riding, and easier passing maneuvers without needing to downshift as frequently. This engine upgrade transitioned the 103 from a premium, optional add-on to the baseline for Harley’s premier touring bikes.

The Heart of the Tourer: The 2012–2016 Harley-Davidson Touring Twin Cam 103 Engine

At the core of the FLHTK Ultra Limited from this era was the air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin Twin Cam 103 engine. True to its name, the “Twin Cam” design utilizes two chain-driven camshafts to actuate the valvetrain, a system Harley-Davidson introduced in 1999. For the Touring lineup, the engine was rubber-mounted to the frame to isolate the rider from excessive vibration, a crucial feature for long-distance comfort.

The engine was paired with a six-speed Cruise Drive transmission, which featured a tall final gear for relaxed, low-RPM highway cruising. Power was delivered to the rear wheel via a clean and low-maintenance belt drive system. The engine also featured an integrated oil cooler to help manage heat, an important consideration for a large, air-cooled V-twin that might spend time in slow-moving traffic. The result was a powertrain that delivered the iconic Harley-Davidson sound and feel, with the torque-rich performance demanded by dedicated touring riders.

Chassis, Comfort, and Project RUSHMORE

The FLHTK Ultra Limited was built on Harley-Davidson’s robust touring chassis, designed for stability at high speeds and when carrying a full load of luggage and a passenger. The suspension system featured a conventional telescopic front fork and air-adjustable rear shock absorbers. This rear suspension allowed riders to easily change the preload using a small air pump to compensate for varying loads, ensuring consistent handling and comfort whether riding solo or fully packed. Braking was handled by a powerful Brembo system, with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) becoming a standard feature that enhanced rider safety.

A major evolution occurred midway through this period with the introduction of “Project RUSHMORE” for the 2014 model year. This company-wide, customer-led initiative resulted in significant upgrades to the touring platform. Key enhancements included: