🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

FXST Softail Standard

Year:

2008

Chassis Code:

FXST

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2008 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail Standard represented a cornerstone of the Softail family, offering a quintessential cruiser experience with classic styling and modern performance. It appealed to riders seeking a traditional Harley-Davidson aesthetic combined with the reliability and technological advancements of the era, positioning it as a highly desirable model for both daily riding and touring.

Competitive Analysis:

In 2008, the FXST Softail Standard competed directly with other cruiser motorcycles from manufacturers like Indian, Victory, and Japanese brands offering V-twin cruiser offerings (e.g., Honda Shadow, Yamaha V-Star, Kawasaki Vulcan). Its primary competitive advantages lay in its iconic Harley-Davidson brand heritage, the distinctive Softail chassis design providing a hardtail look with hidden suspension, and the potent Twin Cam 96 engine.

Key Features:

Timeless Softail styling with hidden rear suspension, Twin Cam 96 V-twin engine, Harley-Davidson's renowned V-twin rumble and torque, robust braking system, comfortable riding ergonomics for a cruiser, and the vast customization potential inherent in Harley-Davidson platforms.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Chassis, Suspension, Brakes, Electrical System, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Wheels and Tires, Bodywork, Tools and Equipment, Troubleshooting, Maintenance, Service Data, Wiring Diagrams

Page Count:

Estimated 500+ pages (typical for this era's Harley-Davidson service manuals)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine (Twin Cam 96), Fuel Injection (EFI - Delphi), Ignition System (Electronic), Transmission (5-Speed Cruise Drive), Primary Drive, Clutch, Final Drive (Belt), Braking System (Hydraulic Disc), Suspension (Front Telescopic Forks, Rear Monoshock Swingarm), Electrical System (12V, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instruments), Fuel Tank and Lines, Exhaust System, Frame, Wheels, Tires, Body Panels, Handlebars, Controls

Chassis And Frame:

Frame construction, steering head bearings, swingarm bearings, rear shock absorber adjustment and replacement, fork internal service.

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance (Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Chain/Belt Adjustments), Engine Diagnosis and Repair (Top End, Bottom End, Valvetrain), Fuel System Servicing (Injector Cleaning, Fuel Pump), Ignition System Troubleshooting, Transmission Overhaul, Clutch Service, Final Drive Belt Inspection and Replacement, Brake System Bleeding and Repair, Suspension Fork and Shock Service, Electrical System Troubleshooting (Wiring Diagrams), Battery Maintenance, Wheel Bearing Replacement, Tire Mounting and Balancing, Bodywork Removal and Installation, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) interpretation, Torque Specifications, Special Tool Usage

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all systems, including lighting, ignition, starting, charging, fuel injection, and accessories, crucial for troubleshooting electrical faults.

Wheel And Tire Service:

Wheel removal and installation, bearing replacement, tire mounting and dismounting, balancing procedures, recommended tire pressures.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic owner-performed maintenance to advanced engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical diagnostics, and chassis component repairs. Includes detailed diagrams, exploded views, and service specifications. Suitable for both experienced mechanics and dedicated DIY enthusiasts.

Diagnostic Procedures:

In-depth diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon issues, including methods for reading diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) through the diagnostic port.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Searchable, Printable)

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, ensuring clarity of text and images.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, Twin Cam 96 V-twin

Displacement:

1584cc (96 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

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

Compression Ratio:

8.9:1

Valve Train:

Overhead valve (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder, pushrod actuated

Horsepower:

Approx. 75-80 HP (at crankshaft, estimated)

Torque:

Approx. 92-96 ft-lbs (at crankshaft, estimated)

Engine Torque Delivery:

Max torque typically achieved in the 2500-3500 RPM range, characteristic of Harley-Davidson V-twin engines for strong low-end and mid-range pull.

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) - Delphi

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, 91 octane (AKI) or higher recommended

Fuel Tank Capacity:

5.0 US gallons (18.9 liters)

Idle Speed:

Specify idle RPM (e.g., 950-1050 RPM, refer to manual for exact spec)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed Cruise Drive

Gear Ratios:

1st: 9.315, 2nd: 6.650, 3rd: 4.945, 4th: 3.871, 5th: 3.150, 6th: 2.790

Primary Drive:

Patented, pre-engaged, centrifugal clutch, 34/46 ratio

Final Drive:

Carbon belt, 32/66 ratio

Clutch Type:

Hydraulic, 9-plate, wet clutch

Transmission Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson Formula+ Transmission & Primary Chaincase Lubricant (or equivalent)

Transmission Oil Capacity:

24 US fl oz (710 ml)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

93.0 in. (2362 mm)

Width:

36.5 in. (927 mm) (overall, approximate)

Height:

48.2 in. (1224 mm) (overall, approximate)

Wheelbase:

64.5 in. (1638 mm)

Ground Clearance:

5.0 in. (127 mm)

Seat Height:

26.2 in. (665 mm) (unladen)

Dry Weight:

636 lbs (288.5 kg)

Wet Weight:

674 lbs (305.7 kg) (estimated, with fluids)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

1050 lbs (476 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

As a motorcycle, specific crash test ratings (like automotive NCAP) are not applicable. Focus is on rider safety through design and braking performance.

Active Features:

Dual-piston front and rear disc brakes, hydraulic front and rear brake actuation, rider-focused ergonomics for control, strong frame and suspension for stability.

Passive Features:

Full-sized frame, robust powertrain construction, integrated lighting system (headlight, taillight, turn signals), handlebar design for leverage, rider footboard/peg placement for stability.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

The 2008 FXST Softail Standard typically featured a minimalist approach to technology, focusing on the riding experience. It usually includes a basic analog speedometer, tachometer (sometimes optional), odometer, trip meter, and indicator lights. No integrated infotainment or advanced digital displays typical of modern touring bikes.

Driver Assistance Features:

No advanced driver assistance systems. Focus is on mechanical systems and rider control.

Connectivity:

No factory-integrated connectivity features like Bluetooth or smartphone integration.

🔧 Maintenance

Initial Service Mileage:

1,000 miles (1,600 km)

Subsequent Service Mileage:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first. This includes engine oil and filter change, drive belt check, brake fluid check, and other inspections.

Primary Chain Tensioner Inspection:

Check every 5,000 miles, replace if worn (common wear item on earlier Twin Cam models)

Engine Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson V-Twin 20W-50 Synthetic (or equivalent API SG, Jaso MA or MA2 approved)

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.0 US quarts (3.8 liters) with filter change

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 (for hydraulic clutch and brakes)

Fork Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson Type 'E' (or equivalent SAE 10W fork oil)

Fork Oil Capacity:

Approx. 257 ml per leg (check manual for exact specification)

Primary Chaincase Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson Formula+ Transmission & Primary Chaincase Lubricant (or equivalent API GL-4, SAE 80W-90)

Known Issues:

Potential for primary chain tensioner wear (especially hydraulic tensioners on earlier Twin Cams, though 2008 models might have updated designs or are candidates for aftermarket upgrades), some fuel injection system glitches requiring diagnostics, exhaust pipe chroming issues, and standard wear and tear on clutch and brake components.

Clutch Adjustment:

Regular clutch cable adjustment required; hydraulic clutch system requires proper bleeding. Clutch plates wear over time and may need replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, boasts over a century of motorcycle manufacturing. The brand is synonymous with American motorcycling culture, characterized by its V-twin engines, distinctive styling, and a strong sense of community among its riders. This heritage underpins the appeal of all its models, including the Softail line.

Model Evolution:

The Softail platform was introduced in 1983 by Willie G. Davidson and Bill Davis, featuring a revolutionary rear suspension system hidden beneath the swingarm to mimic the look of a hardtail frame. The FXST Softail Standard has evolved over the years, incorporating engine upgrades (like the Twin Cam series), chassis refinements, and modern features while retaining its classic aesthetic. The 2008 model benefits from the advancements of the Twin Cam 96 engine and the Cruise Drive transmission.

Production Years For Fxst Softail Standard:

Various iterations of the FXST Softail Standard have been produced since its inception in the early 1980s, with the Twin Cam era models, including the 2008, being highly sought after.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily manufactured in the United States by Harley-Davidson Motor Company.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 2008 FXST Softail Standard are not commonly cited, Harley-Davidson motorcycles, particularly the Softail line, have consistently been recognized for their iconic styling, cultural impact, and rider satisfaction by various motorcycle publications and enthusiast groups over the years.