Positioning:
The Harley-Davidson Softail Standard FXST represents a classic cruiser aesthetic with modern performance, appealing to riders seeking a traditional motorcycle experience with reliable touring capabilities.
Competitors:
Competed against models from Indian Motorcycles (e.g., Chief Classic), Victory Motorcycles (e.g., Kingpin), and other large-displacement cruisers from Japanese manufacturers.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasizes a clean, minimalist design, showcasing the iconic V-twin engine and comfortable riding posture.
Engine Emphasis:
The Twin Cam 96B engine is a central feature, known for its torque and distinctive Harley-Davidson sound.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides essential DIY maintenance and repair information, saving owners significant costs compared to dealership servicing, and enabling self-sufficiency for routine and advanced tasks.
Covered Models:
Harley-Davidson Softail Standard FXST (2007-2011)
Additional Coverage:
Parts Catalog, Electrical Diagnostics
Estimated Page Count:
Comprehensive (exact count not specified, but implies full workshop manual content)
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF, implied by typical online sales)
Engine:
Engine disassembly, assembly, tuning, diagnostics, internal components
Transmission:
Transmission removal, installation, internal service, clutch operation
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnostics, lighting, ignition, starting, charging systems
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (EFI), fuel pump, injectors, throttle body, fuel tank
Chassis:
Frame, suspension (forks, shocks), steering, wheels, tires, brakes
Bodywork:
Body panels, fenders, seat, fuel tank mounting, trim
Drivetrain:
Belt drive system, final drive maintenance
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, brake fluid flush, spark plug replacement
Repair:
Component replacement, engine rebuild, transmission repair, brake system repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, error code interpretation
Diagnostics:
Electrical system diagnostics, engine performance diagnostics
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values
Depth:
Comprehensive: covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, with detailed electrical diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Four-stroke, Air-cooled, 2-Cylinder V-Twin OHV
Displacement:
1584 cc (96 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.75 in x 4.38 in (95.25 mm x 111.25 mm)
Compression Ratio:
9.2:1 (Typical for Twin Cam 96B)
Valve Train:
Overhead Valves (OHV) with mechanical pushrods, 2 valves per cylinder
Engine Balancing:
Counter-balanced (indicated by 'B' designation)
Ignition System:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Horsepower:
Estimated 70-80 HP (at crankshaft, varies slightly by year and tune)
Torque:
Approx. 90-96 lb-ft @ 3000 RPM (Typical for Twin Cam 96B)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
5.0 US gallons (18.9 L)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4 US quarts (3.8 L) with filter
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 Synthetic or equivalent SAE 20W-50 motorcycle oil
Type:
6-Speed Cruise Drive
Gear Ratios:
1st: 9.311, 2nd: 6.454, 3rd: 4.783, 4th: 3.874, 5th: 3.150, 6th: 2.790 (Typical for 6-speed Cruise Drive)
Clutch:
Wet, multi-plate, hydraulic actuation
Primary Drive:
Patented Single Screw, Spring Loaded, Compensating Sprocket Assembly, Duplex Chain
Final Drive:
Carbon fiber belt drive, 1.048:1 ratio
Transmission Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ Transmission & Primary Chaincase Lubricant or equivalent
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 2.7 US pints (1.3 L)
Length:
Approximately 93.7 in (2380 mm)
Seat Height Laden:
Approximately 26.4 in (670 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approximately 4.8 in (122 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 668 lbs (303 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approximately 1060 lbs (480 kg)
Front Tire:
Dunlop D402F MH90-21 54H
Rear Tire:
Dunlop D401 150/80B16 77H
Front Wheel Size:
21 inch
Crash Safety:
N/A (Motorcycles generally do not have standardized crash test ratings like cars)
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes, front and rear. ABS optional on some later models within this range, but likely not standard on FXST.
Suspension Type:
Telescopic front fork, rear swingarm with dual coil-over shock absorbers.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED tail light and brake light, front and rear turn signals.
Audio System:
Base models like the Standard FXST typically did not come with integrated infotainment systems. Aftermarket audio installations were common.
Display:
Analog speedometer with integrated digital display for odometer, trip meter, and clock. Fuel gauge typically in the tank console.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on some models and years within this range, not standard.
Bluetooth:
Not standard. Aftermarket solutions required for Bluetooth connectivity.
First Service:
1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (typically includes oil change, filter, and comprehensive inspection).
Subsequent Service:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months (includes oil change, filter, inspection, lubrication).
Belt Tension Check:
Check belt tension at every service interval, adjust as needed. Belt replacement typically around 40,000-60,000 miles, depending on conditions.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years or as specified by inspection.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 10,000-20,000 miles, depending on plug type and condition.
Engine Oil:
SAE 20W-50, Harley-Davidson SYN3 Synthetic or equivalent API CI-4 rated.
Transmission Primary Oil:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ Transmission & Primary Chaincase Lubricant or equivalent.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (for clutch and brake systems)
Fork Oil:
Harley-Davidson Factory recommended fork oil or equivalent viscosity (e.g., 10W).
Cam Chain Tensioner:
Early Twin Cam engines (pre-2007) were known for cam chain tensioner wear. The 2007+ Twin Cam 96B generally uses improved hydraulic tensioners, but wear can still occur.
Oil Leaks:
Common areas for potential leaks include primary and transmission seals, rocker box gaskets, and base gaskets over time.
Efi Performance:
While generally reliable, EFI systems can sometimes require sensor cleaning or recalibration for optimal performance. Check for Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).
Belt Drive Wear:
Proper belt tension and alignment are critical to prevent premature wear of the carbon fiber drive belt and pulleys.
Brand Establishment:
Harley-Davidson Motor Company, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer renowned for its V-twin engines and cruiser lifestyle.
Softail Lineage:
The Softail platform, introduced in 1983, is characterized by its hidden rear shock absorbers, designed to mimic the appearance of a rigid frame while providing rider comfort. The FXST Softail Standard typically represents the core essence of the Softail design.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (primarily York, Pennsylvania and Milwaukee, Wisconsin)
Engine Introduction:
The Twin Cam 88 engine was introduced in 1999, with the Twin Cam 96 (1584cc) variant appearing in 2007 across many Harley-Davidson models.
