🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

FLST Softail Standard

Year:

2012

Body Style:

Cruiser Motorcycle

Vin Prefix:

1HD1BG

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Harley-Davidson FLST Softail Standard represents a classic cruiser aesthetic with modern performance, targeting riders who appreciate timeless styling and a comfortable riding experience.

Competitors:

Competes with other large-displacement cruiser motorcycles from brands like Indian, Triumph, and select Japanese manufacturers offering similar styling and displacement.

Styling:

Iconic Harley-Davidson styling, low seat height, classic lines, often featuring chrome accents.

Engine Platform:

Reliable and torquey Twin Cam 103 engine provides strong performance for cruising.

Ride Quality:

Softail suspension design provides a smooth ride with a hidden rear shock absorber system for a hardtail appearance.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Full service, repair, and workshop procedures for the 2012 Harley-Davidson FLST Softail Standard.

Secondary Coverage:

Diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting, maintenance schedules, electrical system diagrams, and component specifications.

Estimated Pages:

900+

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

103 Cubic Inch (1690cc) Twin Cam 103 V-Twin engine: disassembly, assembly, diagnostics, tuning, emissions controls.

Fuel System:

Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI), fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, injectors, throttle body, idle speed control.

Ignition System:

Electronic Ignition Module (EIM), spark plugs, ignition coils, crankshaft position sensor, camshaft position sensor, diagnostic codes.

Transmission:

6-speed Cruise Drive manual transmission: disassembly, assembly, lubrication, shift mechanism, clutch system (primary and secondary), torque specifications.

Drivetrain:

Primary drive (clutch, compensator sprocket), final drive (belt drive system, belt tensioning, pulley replacement).

Frame And Suspension:

Softail frame construction, front fork assembly (telescopic, internal components, oil specifications, seal replacement), rear suspension (shock absorbers, linkage, adjustments).

Brakes:

Front and rear hydraulic disc brakes: caliper overhaul, master cylinder servicing, brake fluid specifications (DOT 4), bleeding procedures, pad replacement, rotor specifications.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, battery service, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), starter motor, lighting (headlights, taillights, turn signals), horn, fuses, relays, CAN bus communication.

Bodywork And Trim:

Fenders, fuel tank removal/installation, seat, handlebars, mirrors, side covers, and other cosmetic components.

Wheels And Tires:

Wheel bearing inspection and replacement, tire selection and mounting, balancing, valve stem service.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, air filter cleaning/replacement, spark plug replacement, drive belt inspection and adjustment, brake inspection, fluid level checks.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Repair And Rebuild:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, overhaul, and reassembly, including torque specifications for critical fasteners.

Diagnostics:

Instructions for using diagnostic tools, interpreting data streams, and performing system tests.

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Use of multimeters, oscilloscopes, and guided procedures for diagnosing electrical faults based on wiring diagrams.

Engine Tuning:

Information related to performance tuning and emissions adjustments (where applicable and within legal limits).

Depth:

Comprehensive; covers everything from basic rider maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Text-searchable within PDF viewer

Quality:

High-resolution scanned images and text, suitable for printing.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, Twin Cam 103, V-Twin

Displacement:

103 cu in (1690 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

3.875 in x 4.380 in (98.4 mm x 111.3 mm)

Compression Ratio:

9.2:1

Valve Train:

Pushrod actuated, overhead valves with hydraulic lifters, 2 valves per cylinder

Torque:

Approx. 98.9 lb-ft @ 3,000 RPM (134 Nm @ 3000 rpm) - *specifications may vary slightly*

Horsepower:

Not officially published by Harley-Davidson for this model year, but typically in the 70-80 HP range.

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)

Fuel Type:

Premium unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane

🔧 Transmission

Type:

6-speed Cruise Drive

Clutch:

Clutch, wet, multi-plate, diaphragm spring

Gear Ratios:

1st: 9.593, 2nd: 6.650, 3rd: 4.935, 4th: 3.827, 5th: 3.177, 6th: 2.773

Primary Drive:

Chain, 34/46 ratio

Final Drive:

Belt, 32/66 ratio

📐 Dimensions

Length:

92.5 in (2350 mm)

Width:

37.1 in (942 mm)

Height:

48.5 in (1232 mm)

Seat Height:

26.3 in (668 mm) (Unladen)

Ground Clearance:

4.8 in (122 mm)

Dry Weight:

636 lb (288.5 kg)

Wet Weight:

Approx. 677 lb (307 kg) (With fluids)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

1030 lb (467 kg)

Fuel Capacity:

5.0 US gal (18.9 L)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

Motorcycles are not subject to the same standardized crash testing as cars. Safety is primarily based on rider skill and adherence to road laws.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes with 4-piston calipers. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature for this model year and may not be present on all units.

Lighting:

Halogen headlamp, LED taillight and stop light, amber LED front and rear turn signals.

Frame Design:

Steel frame and swingarm designed for stability and handling.

Ergonomics:

Rider-focused ergonomics promoting comfortable control and awareness.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

This specific model (Standard) typically does not come equipped with a factory-installed audio system. Audio systems were generally available on higher trim levels or as dealer-installed accessories.

Gauges:

Analog speedometer and tachometer, odometer, trip odometer, fuel gauge, engine diagnostics indicator, 6-speed indicator, oil pressure, battery voltage.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on the 2012 FLST Softail Standard. The manual will detail its operation and maintenance if equipped.

Diagnostic Interface:

On-board diagnostics (OBD) capabilities using Harley-Davidson's Digital Technician II tool. The manual provides information on diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

🔧 Maintenance

First Service:

1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (includes engine oil change, primary chain case oil change, inspection of all critical components).

Subsequent Services:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months (includes engine oil and filter change, primary chain case oil change, inspection of various systems). Refer to manual for detailed breakdown.

Engine Oil:

Harley-Davidson Genuine V-Twin 20W-50 (P/N 62600004) or approved equivalent. Capacity: 4.0 US quarts (3.8 L) with filter change.

Primary Chain Case Oil:

Harley-Davidson Genuine Formula+ (P/N 99850-97) or approved equivalent. Capacity: 2.5 US quarts (2.4 L).

Transmission Oil:

Harley-Davidson Genuine Formula+ (P/N 99850-97) or approved equivalent. Capacity: 32 US fl oz (0.95 L).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 (Refer to manual for specific Harley-Davidson part numbers if applicable, e.g., P/N 99880-97).

Fork Oil:

Harley-Davidson Type E (20W) fork oil (P/N 99954-86) or approved equivalent. Capacity: 10.4 US fl oz (308 ml) per fork leg.

Cam Chain Tensioners:

Early Twin Cam models (prior to 2007) had plastic cam chain tensioners that could wear prematurely. Later models (like the 2012 Twin Cam 103) utilize hydraulic tensioners, which are more durable but still require inspection. The manual will detail inspection procedures.

Oil Leaks:

Common areas for oil leaks on V-twin engines include primary cover gasket, transmission main shaft seal, and engine case seals. The manual provides guidance on identifying and rectifying these.

Charging System:

Stator and voltage regulator failure can occur, leading to battery drain. The manual covers diagnostics for these components.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Harley-Davidson boasts a long and storied history dating back to 1903, synonymous with American motorcycle culture, freedom, and iconic V-twin engines.

Softail Lineage:

The Softail platform, introduced in 1983, mimics the appearance of a hardtail frame with concealed rear shock absorbers, offering a smoother ride while maintaining classic styling. The FLST models are characterized by their classic cruiser proportions.

Twin Cam Engine:

The Twin Cam engine family, introduced in 1999, represented a significant evolution in Harley-Davidson's V-twin technology, offering improved performance, reliability, and emissions compliance compared to the Evolution engine. The Twin Cam 103 variant, introduced in 2007, became a staple for many models.

Production Location:

United States (Various Harley-Davidson assembly plants)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Awards:

Individual model awards are not typically tracked or publicized by Harley-Davidson for specific model years in the same way cars are. However, the Softail platform and Twin Cam engine have consistently been recognized for their iconic styling and performance within the cruiser market.

Customer Satisfaction:

Harley-Davidson motorcycles generally receive high marks for owner satisfaction, often driven by brand loyalty, lifestyle association, and distinctive riding experience. The manual aids in maintaining this satisfaction through proper care.