2017–2018 Harley-Davidson Touring Milwaukee-Eight 107 (FLHTK Ultra Limited)

The 2017–2018 Harley-Davidson Touring Milwaukee-Eight 107 (FLHTK Ultra Limited) marked a pivotal advancement for the iconic American motorcycle manufacturer’s Grand American Touring lineup. This model introduced the ninth generation of Harley-Davidson’s renowned “Big Twin” engine, the Milwaukee-Eight, replacing the long-serving Twin Cam engine. The update was comprehensive, aiming to enhance power, rider comfort, and overall handling to meet the evolving demands of long-distance touring riders. The FLHTK Ultra Limited, as the premium model in the 107-cubic-inch category, showcased the full extent of these technological improvements.

The Milwaukee-Eight 107 Engine

At the core of the 2017–2018 FLHTK Ultra Limited is the Milwaukee-Eight 107 engine. Named for its eight-valve design (four valves per cylinder), this 107-cubic-inch (1746cc) V-Twin was engineered from the ground up to deliver a superior riding experience compared to its predecessor, the Twin Cam 103.

Key improvements included:
Increased Power and Torque: The Milwaukee-Eight 107 produced approximately 10% more peak torque than the Twin Cam 103. This resulted in noticeably quicker acceleration, particularly in roll-on situations, allowing for easier passing and a more responsive feel.
Reduced Vibration: A single, gear-driven internal counter-balancer was integrated into the engine design. This system canceled out 75% of the primary vibration at idle, creating a much smoother experience at a standstill without eliminating the classic V-Twin character at cruising speeds.
Improved Heat Management: The FLHTK Ultra Limited model featured the “Twin-Cooled” version of the Milwaukee-Eight. This precision cooling system strategically circulated liquid coolant around the hottest parts of the cylinder heads—the exhaust valves—significantly reducing radiated heat and improving comfort for both the rider and passenger, especially in slow-moving traffic.
Enhanced Sound and Efficiency: A revised intake and exhaust system not only helped the engine meet stricter global emissions and noise standards but was also tuned to produce a richer, more satisfying exhaust note. The new design also contributed to better fuel economy.

Chassis and Suspension Upgrades

Complementing the new engine, Harley-Davidson introduced significant upgrades to the touring chassis for the 2017 model year. The FLHTK Ultra Limited benefited from an all-new front and rear suspension system designed to provide a more controlled and comfortable ride.

The front suspension featured Showa Dual Bending Valve (SDBV) fork technology, which offered the performance characteristics of a sophisticated cartridge-style fork but with less weight and complexity. This resulted in more responsive damping over a wide range of road imperfections.

In the rear, new emulsion-technology shock absorbers replaced the previous air-adjustable units. The most practical improvement was the move to a single, tool-free preload adjustment knob. This allowed riders to easily adjust the suspension for the weight of a passenger or luggage with a simple turn of a dial, ensuring optimal performance and handling under varying loads. These chassis enhancements worked in tandem to deliver a more planted, confident feel in corners and greater plushness on long highway stretches.

Differences from the Previous Twin Cam Model

The transition from the 2016 Twin Cam-powered FLHTK to the 2017 Milwaukee-Eight model brought several key differences beyond the engine and suspension. The new models featured a higher-output charging system to better handle the power demands of modern electronics and accessories. An Assist and Slip clutch was also introduced, providing a lighter lever pull to reduce rider fatigue and helping to prevent rear-wheel hop during aggressive downshifts. Visually, the Milwaukee-Eight engine presented a more muscular, modern aesthetic with sleeker rocker covers and a narrower primary drive cover, which improved rider legroom on the left side of the motorcycle.

Specifications Table: 2018 Harley-Davidson FLHTK Ultra Limited