Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson Softail owners, independent repair shops, motorcycle enthusiasts
Key Competitors 2001:
Indian Chief, Victory V92C, Custom cruisers from Japanese manufacturers (e.g., Honda Shadow, Yamaha Road Star, Kawasaki Vulcan)
Platform Focus:
Provides in-depth technical information specific to the 2001 Harley-Davidson Softail FLST and FXST models.
Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and technicians with the knowledge to perform maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs, saving time and money compared to dealer-exclusive services.
Accuracy Reliability:
Based on factory service manual data, ensuring accuracy for all procedures and specifications.
Primary Coverage:
Complete Workshop Service Repair
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by specific publication, typically 500+ pages for complete factory manuals
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable Digital Format (likely PDF)
Engine:
1450cc (88ci) Evolution V-Twin (including carburetor tuning and fuel delivery)
Transmission:
5-Speed Cruise Drive Transmission (assembly, disassembly, fluid changes)
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, ignition system, lighting, battery, charging system, starter
Fuel System:
Carburetor systems (e.g., Keihin CV), fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel pump (if applicable)
Suspension:
Front fork (telescopic), rear shock absorbers, adjustments, fork seal replacement
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, hydraulic system, brake pad replacement, bleeding
Chassis Frame:
Frame inspection, steering head bearings, alignment
Bodywork:
Fenders, fuel tank, seat, handlebars, controls, fairings (if equipped)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication, brake fluid flush
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, common problem identification and resolution
Repair:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension repair, brake system repair
Installation:
Component replacement, accessory installation guidance
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds)
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, pushrod valve actuation
Displacement:
1450 cc (88 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.75 in x 4.00 in (95.25 mm x 101.60 mm)
Compression Ratio:
8.8:1 (typical)
Carburetor:
Keihin CV (Constant Velocity) 40 mm
Horsepower Approx:
60-65 HP (at crankshaft, estimated)
Torque Approx:
70-75 ft-lbs (at crankshaft, estimated)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane recommended
Fuel Capacity:
Approximately 4.0 US gallons (15.1 L)
Type:
5-Speed Cruise Drive, constant mesh
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate
Optional Transmission:
N/A for this model year and platform
Gear Ratios:
Detailed gear ratios for each of the 5 speeds and final drive provided in manual
Transmission Fluid:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ or equivalent API GL-4, SAE 50 lubricant
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 24 US fluid ounces (0.71 L)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 64.5 - 66.0 inches (1638 - 1676 mm), varies by specific Softail model (e.g., FLSTF, FXSTB)
Seat Height Laden:
Approx. 25.0 - 26.0 inches (635 - 660 mm), varies by model
Dry Weight Approx:
Approx. 600 - 650 lbs (272 - 295 kg), varies by model
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Specifications provided in manual
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycles typically do not receive NHTSA crash test ratings like cars)
Braking System:
Dual-action front and rear disc brakes with hydraulic actuation
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals
Frame Construction:
Steel tubing frame
Audio System:
Optional accessory audio systems were available, but not standard equipment on all 2001 models. Manual will detail integration if equipped.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was not standard on most 2001 Softail models and was typically an optional feature, if available at all.
Smartphone Integration:
N/A (No integrated smartphone connectivity for this model year)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 2,500 - 5,000 miles (4,000 - 8,000 km) or 6-12 months, check manual for exact mileage/time.
Primary Chain Case Fluid Change:
Recommended at oil change intervals, check manual.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 10,000 - 15,000 miles (16,000 - 24,000 km), refer to manual.
Engine Oil Spec:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 (Synthetic) or compatible SAE 20W-50 motorcycle oil
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.0 US quarts (3.8 L) with filter change
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 brake fluid
Fork Oil Spec:
Harley-Davidson suspension oil or equivalent viscosity (e.g., Bel-Ray 5W)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, brake pads, tires, wheel bearings, steering head bearings.
Potential Electrical Issues:
Wire harness fraying, regulator/stator failure (though less common on this generation compared to earlier models)
Carburetor Tuning:
Keihin CV carburetor can require periodic adjustment for optimal performance and idle stability.
Brand Origin:
Founded in 1903 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
Legacy:
Iconic American motorcycle manufacturer known for its cruiser and touring motorcycles.
Softail Introduction:
The Softail concept, featuring hidden rear suspension to mimic a rigid frame look, was introduced in 1983.
2001 Model Year Updates:
Specific updates for 2001 would typically include minor cosmetic changes, potentially color options, and refinements to existing systems. The core FLST/FXST platform remained consistent.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (Various Harley-Davidson plants)
Model Recognition:
The Harley-Davidson Softail platform is consistently recognized for its iconic styling, comfortable ride, and V-twin rumble, making it a strong contender in the cruiser market.
Customer Satisfaction:
Harley-Davidson generally scores high in customer satisfaction for its brand loyalty and product appeal.
Manual Certification:
While not 'certified' in a formal sense, these manuals are typically derived from official Harley-Davidson factory service documentation.
