Market Position:
Cruiser segment, targeting riders seeking distinctive styling and performance, a popular model in Harley-Davidson's lineup for its aggressive aesthetic and ride characteristics.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against other American V-twin cruisers and some Japanese offerings with similar styling cues, distinguished by its blacked-out theme and potent V-twin engine.
Key Features:
Signature Night Train styling (blacked-out components), powerful V-twin engine, comfortable riding position for a cruiser, robust Harley-Davidson engineering.
Engine:
Engine assembly, disassembly, internal components, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, performance tuning
Transmission:
Transmission assembly, disassembly, gears, clutch, shifting mechanism, maintenance, troubleshooting
Drivetrain:
Primary drive, final drive, belt tension, sprocket inspection and replacement
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting system, ignition system, instrumentation, battery maintenance, fuses, relays, sensors
Braking System:
Brake system components (calipers, master cylinders, lines, rotors), hydraulic system maintenance, bleeding procedures, troubleshooting
Suspension Steering:
Front forks (assembly, seals, oil), rear shock absorbers, steering head bearings, wheel bearings, alignment
Fuel System:
Carburetor (tuning, cleaning, rebuilding), fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel pump (if applicable)
Cooling System:
Oil cooler system, oil flow, oil filter, oil change procedures
Bodywork Chassis:
Frame inspection, body panel removal and installation, fenders, seat, fuel tank mounting
Wheels Tires:
Tire pressure, inspection, replacement, wheel balancing, rim specifications
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication, brake fluid flush, battery checks
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting for common issues, electrical fault finding
Repair:
Component-level repair, engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake system repair, electrical system repair
Disassembly Reassembly:
Step-by-step instructions for dismantling and reassembling major vehicle components
Specifications Adjustments:
Torque specifications for fasteners, ignition timing, valve lash adjustments, carburetor adjustments, clutch adjustment
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic to advanced repairs and diagnostics, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Twin Cam 88 V-twin
Displacement:
1449 cc (88 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.75 in. x 4.00 in. (95.25 mm x 101.6 mm)
Compression Ratio:
8.9:1 (Typical)
Horsepower:
Approx. 65-70 HP (Engine dependent, factory figures not always published)
Torque:
Approx. 75-80 lb-ft @ 3000-3500 RPM (Engine dependent)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (Keihin CV, 40mm)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane
Ignition Type:
Electronic ignition with dual fire spark plug system
Transmission Type:
5-speed constant mesh, sequential manual
Optional Transmission:
N/A (Standard configuration for FXSTB)
Clutch Type:
Multi-plate, wet clutch
Gear Ratios:
Refer to manual for specific ratios (typically: 1st: 9.342, 2nd: 6.454, 3rd: 4.792, 4th: 3.820, 5th: 3.160)
Final Drive:
Belt drive, 32/66 tooth sprockets (1:2.0625 ratio)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson 80W-90 Hypoid Gear Oil or equivalent
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 25-30 fl. oz. (0.74-0.89 L)
Infotainment Features:
This model typically features a minimalist approach to technology, focusing on the riding experience. Base models may have a basic analog speedometer, tachometer, and indicator lights. Optional accessories or later aftermarket upgrades might include sound systems or GPS.
Driver Assistance Features:
None from the factory. Focus is on rider control and feedback.
Connectivity Features:
N/A (No integrated Bluetooth, smartphone integration, or Wi-Fi as standard features).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific recommendations based on riding conditions).
Primary Chain Tension Check:
Check every 10,000 miles (16,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Inspect every 5,000 miles (8,000 km), replace as needed or per manual schedule.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Recommended every 2 years.
Tire Inspection:
Check tire pressure before every ride, inspect for wear and damage regularly.
Engine Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Syn3 (Fully Synthetic) 20W-50 or equivalent motorcycle-specific oil meeting API CI-4 or higher.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4 U.S. quarts (3.8 Liters) with filter change.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 5 Silicone Brake Fluid (Harley-Davidson specification for most models of this era). Do NOT mix with DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Primary Chain Case Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Primary Chain Case Oil or Harley-Davidson Diamond Performance Gear Oil.
Primary Chain Case Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1 U.S. quart (0.95 Liters).
Known Issues:
Primary chain tensioner wear (especially earlier Twin Cam versions), potential for oil leaks at gaskets and seals, cam chain tensioner wear on Twin Cam 88 (can lead to significant engine damage if ignored), carburation adjustments may be needed for optimal performance.
Brand Heritage:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer renowned for its V-twin engines, distinctive styling, and strong rider community. The brand embodies freedom, individualism, and a rich motorsport history.
Model Evolution:
The FXSTB Night Train was introduced as part of Harley-Davidson's Softail family, characterized by its hidden rear suspension, mimicking a hardtail look. The 'Night Train' variant emphasized a 'custom' aesthetic with extensive use of blacked-out components and a lower-slung profile.
Production Years:
The FXSTB Night Train was produced from 2000 to 2009, with the 2003 model representing a mid-cycle iteration featuring the Twin Cam 88 engine.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (Milwaukee, Wisconsin and York, Pennsylvania plants)