Target Audience:
Professional motorcycle technicians, experienced DIY mechanics, and Harley-Davidson owners seeking in-depth repair and maintenance information.
Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level repair information, enabling users to perform complex maintenance and repairs efficiently, saving on dealership service costs.
Manual Scope:
Covers all aspects of the 2006 Softail model line, essential for maintaining optimal performance and longevity.
Powertrain:
Engine (Twin Cam 88B/96), Transmission (5-speed Cruise Drive), Clutch, Final Drive
Chassis:
Frame, Front Suspension (Telescopic Fork), Rear Suspension (Swingarm with Shock Absorbers), Wheels, Tires, Brakes (Front & Rear Disc), Steering
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System (Stator, Regulator/Rectifier), Ignition System, Lighting (Headlight, Taillight, Turn Signals), Gauges and Instruments, Starter System, EFI System (Fuel Injection)
Body And Frame:
Fuel Tank, Fenders, Seat, Handlebars, Controls, Exhaust System
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnosis, electrical system diagnosis, engine performance issues
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension repair, brake system service, electrical component replacement
Disassembly And Assembly:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for major component removal and installation
Level Of Detail:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Family:
Harley-Davidson Twin Cam 88B (Balanced)
Engine Displacement:
1450cc (88 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.75 in x 4.00 in (95.25 mm x 101.6 mm)
Valve Train:
Overhead Valves (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder, pushrod actuated
Cooling System:
Air-cooled
Horsepower Estimate:
Approx. 65-70 HP (varies slightly by model variant)
Torque Estimate:
Approx. 80-85 ft-lbs @ 3500 RPM (varies slightly by model variant)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane
Oil Capacity:
3.0 US quarts (2.8 liters) with filter change
Oil Type Specification:
Harley-Davidson 20W-50 SYN3 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil or equivalent API CG-4 rated oil
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Cruise Drive
Gear Ratios:
1st: 9.315, 2nd: 6.652, 3rd: 4.948, 4th: 3.830, 5th: 3.157
Optional Transmissions:
None for 2006 Softail models (standard 5-speed)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic, Wet, Multi-plate
Transmission Oil Capacity:
2.4 US quarts (2.3 liters)
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula Plus or equivalent V-twin transmission fluid
Overall Length:
Approx. 92.0 in (2337 mm) (varies by model)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 64.5 in (1638 mm) (varies by model)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 5.0 in (127 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 620-650 lbs (281-295 kg) (varies by model)
Gvwr:
Approx. 975 lbs (442 kg)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
4.9 US gallons (18.5 liters)
Rear Tire Size:
130/90B16
Wheel Type:
Cast Aluminum or Spoked (model dependent)
Bolt Pattern:
5x4.5 inch (114.3mm) - Front & Rear
Crash Test Ratings:
Motorcycles are not subjected to standardized crash test ratings like automobiles.
Braking System:
Dual-piston caliper front and rear disc brakes. ABS was optional on some 2006 models (e.g., FLHTCUI, but less common on Softails).
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight and brake light, amber incandescent turn signals
Frame Construction:
Steel, cradle frame for robust structure
Handlebar Controls:
Ergonomic controls for rider comfort and operation
Audio System:
Optional for some models (e.g., FXSTS/FXSTB), typically a basic AM/FM radio with CD player or no audio system on standard models.
Display:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, oil pressure, and engine temperature.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on select 2006 Softail models, not standard.
Bluetooth Or Usb:
Not available on 2006 models.
First Service:
1000 miles (1600 km) or 6 months
Subsequent Service:
Every 5000 miles (8000 km) or 12 months thereafter
Primary Fluid Change Interval:
Every 5000 miles (8000 km) or 12 months
Engine Oil Viscosity:
20W-50
Engine Oil API Rating:
API CG-4 or higher
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula Plus or equivalent
Primary Chain Case Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Primary Oil or equivalent
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, primary chain tensioner (hydraulic tensioner is preferred over spring-loaded), wheel bearings, fork seals.
Engine Considerations:
The Twin Cam 88B is generally reliable. Early models (pre-2007) had a spring-loaded primary chain tensioner which could wear out; later hydraulic tensioners are more robust.
Oil Filter:
Harley-Davidson OEM: 63731-98 (or equivalent aftermarket such as KN-170B)
Founding:
Founded in 1903 by William S. Harley and Arthur Davidson.
Legacy:
Iconic American motorcycle manufacturer known for its V-twin engines and cruiser/touring motorcycles.
Softail Introduction:
The Softail platform, featuring hidden rear suspension to mimic the look of a hardtail, was introduced in 1983.
2006 Updates:
The 2006 model year saw the widespread adoption of the Twin Cam 88B engine across the Softail line and continued refinement of the platform.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily York, Pennsylvania, USA and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.
2006 Sales Position:
Softail models were a significant part of Harley-Davidson's strong sales performance in the mid-2000s.
Brand Awards:
Harley-Davidson consistently ranks high in customer satisfaction and brand loyalty. Specific model awards for 2006 are less common, but the Twin Cam platform was well-regarded.
Consumer Ratings:
Generally positive for comfort, styling, and iconic status. Performance and handling are appreciated within the cruiser segment.
