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2019 Harley-Davidson FLHRXS Road King Special — Common Issues & Known Problems

Known Issues & Owner Reports

These are the most commonly reported issues and concerns from owners, mechanics, and community forums for the 2019 Harley-Davidson FLHRXS Road King Special.

Oil Sumping
High

Oil fails to return to the tank and builds up in the crankcase, causing friction, heat, and power loss. Most prevalent in 2017-2019 M8 engines under heavy load.

Addressed by Harley-Davidson Service Bulletin M1450; permanent fix is the 2020+ oil pump.
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Transmission-to-Primary Fluid Migration
Medium

Transmission oil migrates into the primary chaincase due to a pressure differential. Can lead to transmission damage if levels drop too low.

Common fix is installing a primary vent kit, which Harley eventually released as a factory solution.
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Clutch Actuator Leak
High

The hydraulic clutch secondary actuator can leak fluid internally, leading to a loss of clutch disengagement.

Subject of official Safety Recall 0173.
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Rear Suspension Bottoming
Low

The 12-inch shocks provide very little travel, leading to a harsh ride over sharp bumps or when riding two-up.

Design trait rather than a defect, but a primary complaint for owners.
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Used Buying Inspection Checklist

What to look for when buying a used 2019 Harley-Davidson FLHRXS Road King Special.

Sumping Check

Run the bike to operating temperature and check for significant power loss or oil carryover in the air cleaner, which indicates oil is pooling in the crankcase.

Fluid Migration

Check the primary fluid level; if it is overfull while the transmission is low, the oil is migrating through the pushrod tunnel.

Clutch Actuator Recall

Verify if Recall 0173 (Secondary Clutch Actuator) has been performed to prevent sudden loss of clutch pressure.

Stretched Bag Scrapes

Inspect the bottom leading edges of the saddlebags for scrapes, as the lowered suspension makes them prone to bottoming out on curbs or steep inclines.