🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

FXCW Softail Rocker

Year:

2009

Model Code:

FXCW

Series:

Softail

Vehicle Type:

Motorcycle

👋 Introduction

Harley Davidson Positioning:

The FXCW Softail Rocker was positioned as a custom cruiser within Harley-Davidson's lineup, emphasizing a distinctive styling with a unique rear suspension arrangement and a long, low profile.

Competitors:

Competed against other custom-styled cruisers from manufacturers like Indian, Victory, and some Japanese brands offering similar aesthetics and riding experiences.

Styling:

Distinctive 'rocker' arm inspired swingarm design, low seat height, stretched wheelbase, forward-mounted foot controls, teardrop fuel tank.

Engine Platform:

Powered by the robust Twin Cam 96 V-twin engine, known for its torque and characteristic Harley-Davidson rumble.

Manual Benefit:

Provides owners and technicians with the authoritative, step-by-step guidance needed to maintain, diagnose, and repair the FXCW Softail Rocker to factory specifications, ensuring longevity and optimal performance.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service and Repair

Secondary Coverage:

Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Overhaul

Estimated Page Count:

600-800 pages (typical for Harley-Davidson service manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair procedures for the Twin Cam 96 engine (1584cc).

Fuel System:

EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection) system diagnosis, components, calibration, fuel pump, injectors, sensors.

Transmission:

6-speed Cruise Drive transmission: disassembly, inspection, lubrication, clutch operation, final drive.

Chassis Suspension:

Softail frame, swingarm, front fork (including telescopic fork disassembly and seal replacement), rear shock absorbers, wheel bearings.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems, hydraulic lines, master cylinders, calipers, brake pads, bleeding procedures, ABS (if equipped).

Electrical System:

Ignition system, starting system, charging system (alternator, regulator), battery, lighting, switches, fuses, relays, ECM (Engine Control Module) diagnostics, CAN bus communication.

Bodywork Fittings:

Fuel tank, fenders, seats, handlebars, controls, exhaust system, mirrors, and other cosmetic components.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, drive belt inspection and adjustment, brake fluid checks, tire pressure.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts for common issues, fault code interpretation (e.g., DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting.

Major Repairs:

Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, fork seal replacement, electrical component diagnosis and replacement.

Component Overhaul:

Detailed steps for disassembling, cleaning, inspecting, and reassembling key components like the cylinder heads, pistons, transmission gears, and brake calipers.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information relevant to using Harley-Davidson's proprietary diagnostic tools (e.g., Digital Technician Lite/Pro).

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Typically text-searchable, allowing for quick location of specific topics or components.

Printability:

Designed for printing specific sections or the entire manual for workshop use.

Image Clarity:

High-resolution diagrams, illustrations, and photographs for clarity.

Binding Type:

N/A (PDF format, no physical binding)

Paper Type:

N/A (PDF format, no physical paper)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Family:

Harley-Davidson Twin Cam

Displacement:

1584 cc (96 cubic inches)

Configuration:

V-twin, 45-degree cylinder angle

Cooling System:

Air-cooled

Bore X Stroke:

3.75 in x 4.38 in (95.25 mm x 111.25 mm)

Valve Train:

Pushrod-actuated overhead valves, 2 valves per cylinder

Horsepower:

Approximately 75-80 HP (estimated, official figures often not published for cruisers)

Torque:

Approximately 95-100 lb-ft at 3,500 RPM (estimated)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (95 RON)

Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson SYN3 (Synthetic) SAE 20W-50 or equivalent V-twin specific motorcycle oil

Oil Capacity:

3.5 US quarts (3.3 Liters) with filter change

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed Cruise Drive

Primary Drive:

Gears, oil-bathed

Final Drive:

Belt drive, 25mm width

Clutch Type:

Wet, multi-plate, diaphragm spring

Transmission Fluid Type:

Harley-Davidson Formula+ Transmission Lubricant or equivalent SAE 50 motorcycle transmission oil

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

1.0 US quart (0.95 Liters)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 93.5 inches (2375 mm)

Seat Height:

Approx. 24.5 inches (622 mm), unladen

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 4.5 inches (114 mm)

Dry Weight:

Approx. 676 lbs (306.6 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 1075 lbs (487.6 kg)

Fuel Capacity:

5.0 US gallons (18.9 Liters)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 64.5 inches (1638 mm)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Standards:

Complies with all applicable US federal motor vehicle safety standards (FMVSS) for motorcycles.

Braking System:

Dual-action front and rear disc brakes. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was an optional feature for this model year.

Lighting:

Halogen headlamp, LED tail lamp, front and rear turn signals.

Mirrors:

Dual rearview mirrors for improved visibility.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Base models typically did not feature advanced infotainment systems. Audio systems or cruise control were often optional accessories.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was available as an option for the 2009 FXCW, improving braking safety.

Diagnostic Protocols:

Utilizes CAN (Controller Area Network) bus for communication between electronic modules, allowing for advanced diagnostics with appropriate tools.

🔧 Maintenance

First Service:

1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Includes engine oil and filter change, primary chaincase oil change, inspection of all systems.

Subsequent Services:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Includes engine oil and filter, primary chaincase oil, inspection of drive belt, brakes, tires, etc.

Spark Plugs:

Inspect at 5,000 miles, replace as needed. Replacement interval typically around 20,000-30,000 miles depending on conditions.

Engine Oil Viscosity:

SAE 20W-50

Primary Chaincase Oil Viscosity:

SAE 50 (Harley-Davidson Formula+ recommended)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 Harley-Davidson High Performance Synthetic Brake Fluid (or equivalent)

Rear Shock ABSorption:

Some owners report the unique rear suspension linkage requiring careful attention for optimal performance and longevity. The manual will detail proper adjustment and lubrication.

Electrical Connectors:

As with many Harley-Davidsons of this era, ensuring clean and secure electrical connections is vital for preventing intermittent issues.

Fuel Injector Cleaning:

Regularly scheduled fuel system cleaning, including injectors, can prevent performance degradation.

📚 Vehicle History

Harley Davidson Legacy:

Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer renowned for its V-twin engines, custom styling, and a strong rider community. The Softail line, introduced in 1984, is celebrated for its classic hardtail look with hidden rear suspension.

Rocker Introduction:

The Softail Rocker (FXCW) and Rocker C (FXCWC) models were introduced for the 2008 model year, featuring a radical, custom-inspired design, including the unique swingarm and a lower overall profile compared to other Softails.

2009 Updates:

The 2009 model year typically saw minor refinements and potential color options for the FXCW Softail Rocker, maintaining the core design and mechanicals introduced in 2008.

Production Period:

The FXCW Softail Rocker was produced from 2008 to 2011. The Rocker C variant, with its custom tank and chrome accents, was also available during this period.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Acclaim:

While specific awards for the 2009 FXCW Softail Rocker might be scarce, the Softail platform and the Twin Cam engine have consistently received positive recognition for their engineering, performance, and iconic styling within the cruiser segment.