Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle Segment
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, customizers, and professional motorcycle technicians.
Competitors:
Other American V-twin cruisers from manufacturers like Indian Motorcycle.
Platform:
Dyna platform known for its solid handling and classic Harley-Davidson feel.
Engine Family:
Iconic Twin Cam engine family.
Manual Scope:
Holistic approach covering mechanical, electrical, and parts information.
Powertrain:
Engine (Twin Cam 96), Transmission, Drivetrain (Primary & Secondary Drive)
Chassis And Suspension:
Frame, Front Suspension (Fork), Rear Suspension (Shocks), Wheels, Tires
Brakes:
Front and Rear Brake Systems (Hydraulic, Calipers, Rotors, Master Cylinders)
Electrical System:
Wiring Diagrams, Ignition System, Lighting, Gauges, Battery, Charging System, Starter
Fuel System:
Fuel Tank, Fuel Pump, Fuel Injection System (EFI), Throttle Body
Exhaust System:
Exhaust Pipes, Mufflers, Catalytic Converters (if applicable)
Bodywork And Trim:
Fenders, Tank, Seat, Handlebars, Controls, Fairings (if equipped)
Lubrication System:
Oil Tank, Oil Pump, Oil Filter, Lubrication Flow
Cooling System:
Air Cooling System Components and Specifications
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication Points
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides, Fault Code Interpretation
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems, including engine disassembly/reassembly, transmission overhaul, brake component replacement, electrical system repairs.
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures.
Assembly Disassembly:
Detailed instructions for disassembly and reassembly of all major components.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Specific guides for diagnosing electrical faults, component testing, and wiring harness issues.
Parts Identification:
Exploded views and part numbers for identifying and ordering replacement parts.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic rider maintenance to full engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics. Suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Configuration:
2-Cylinder, 45 Degree V-Type
Engine Family:
Twin Cam 96
Cooling Method:
Air-Cooled
Bore X Stroke:
3.75 in. x 4.38 in. (95.3 mm x 111.3 mm)
Valve Train:
Overhead Valves (OHV), Pushrod Actuated, 2 Valves per Cylinder
Fuel System:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Horsepower Approx:
79 HP @ 5100 RPM (Estimated, varies slightly by year and tuning)
Torque Approx:
96 ft-lbs @ 3200 RPM (Estimated, varies slightly by year and tuning)
Throttle Body Size:
45 mm
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Syn3 Motor Oil (SAE 20W50) or equivalent.
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3.0 US quarts (2.8 Liters) with filter change.
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
63796-77A (Common OEM replacement, check specific model/year)
Type:
6-Speed Constant Mesh Cruise Drive
Primary Drive:
Patented Perimetric Compensator
Secondary Drive:
Carbon Driveline Belt
Clutch Type:
Multi-plate, Wet
Gear Ratios:
1st: 9.315, 2nd: 6.650, 3rd: 4.945, 4th: 3.874, 5th: 3.309, 6th: 2.790 (Typical, verify with manual)
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula + (or equivalent SAE 80W-90 GL-5 Gear Oil)
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approximately 2.5 US quarts (2.4 Liters)
Crash Test Results:
Not typically rated by standard automotive safety organizations. Relies on rider skill and defensive riding.
Braking System:
Dual-Action, Four-Piston Front Brake Calipers; Single-Action, Two-Piston Rear Brake Caliper. Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on some models.
Lighting:
Halogen Headlight, LED Tail Light, Incandescent Front and Rear Turn Signals.
Frame Construction:
Steel, Mildew Welded, 2-Up Seat Capability
Engine Guard Mounts:
Provisions for engine guard/highway bar installation.
Display Gauges:
Analog speedometer and tachometer, with an integrated digital display for odometer, trip meter, fuel level, and gear indicator. Potential for aftermarket infotainment integration.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on select models.
Charging Port:
Typically a 12V accessory power outlet for charging devices.
ECU:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) for managing fuel injection and ignition timing.
First Service:
1,000 miles (1,600 km) - Oil change, primary chain tension adjustment, inspection of all critical fasteners and systems.
Subsequent Service:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Includes oil and filter change, inspection of drive belt, brakes, tires, and other critical components. Specific checks for spark plugs, air filter, and clutch cable adjustments at prescribed intervals.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (Check owner's manual for specific Harley-Davidson branded or approved fluid)
Primary Chain Case Fluid:
Harley-Davidson Primary Chain Case Lubricant (or equivalent DOT 4 brake fluid for specific applications/models as per manual).
Fork Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Formula (or equivalent 10W fork oil)
Fork Oil Capacity:
Approximately 10.8 oz (320 ml) per fork leg (verify with manual)
Cam Chain Tensioners:
Early Twin Cam engines (pre-2007) had issues with hydraulic cam chain tensioners. The 2012-2016 models use improved tensioners, but monitoring is still recommended.
Rear Shock Leaks:
Some owners report rear shock leaks; regular inspection and maintenance are important.
Primary Drive Issues:
Regular inspection of the primary chain and compensator is advised, especially for bikes used in stop-and-go traffic or with aggressive riding styles.
Idle Quality:
Some Twin Cam engines can exhibit slightly rough idle; proper tuning and maintenance are key.
Manufacturer:
Harley-Davidson Motor Company, established 1903.
Dyna Lineage:
The Dyna platform, introduced in 1991, represented a shift towards rubber-mounted engines for improved rider comfort compared to earlier rigid frames. The Low Rider model has a long-standing heritage within Harley-Davidson, originally introduced in 1977.
Manufacturing Location:
USA (Various Harley-Davidson assembly plants)
Model Year Significance:
The 2012-2016 models represent a mature iteration of the Twin Cam 96 engine and Dyna platform, featuring electronic fuel injection and a 6-speed transmission, making them a popular choice for customization and reliable touring.
