Market Position:
The FXS Low Rider was a significant model for Harley-Davidson in the late 1970s and early 1980s, offering a customized, performance-oriented cruiser experience. It competed in a segment that was growing in popularity.
Competitive Analysis:
During the 1980 model year, the FXS competed with other American motorcycles and emerging Japanese cruisers, emphasizing its classic styling, V-twin rumble, and the heritage of the Harley-Davidson brand. Its direct competitors would have included models from brands like Indian (though less dominant at this time) and potentially some high-performance Japanese offerings attempting to capture the cruiser market.
Key Features:
The 1980 FXS Low Rider is characterized by its extended front forks, low seat height, and the iconic Shovelhead engine. This manual provides essential information for owners to maintain and repair this classic machine.
Cost Effectiveness:
An inexpensive way to keep the vehicle working properly, avoiding costly dealership repairs.
Coverage Areas:
General Information, Troubleshooting, Periodic Lubrication, Maintenance, Tune-up, Engine, Clutch, Primary Drive, Transmission, Kickstarter, Fuel System, Exhaust Systems, Electrical System, Front Suspension, Steering, Rear Suspension, Brakes, Wiring Diagrams
Page Count:
Hundreds of pages (specific count not provided, but described as comprehensive)
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual (Official Full Factory)
Target Audience:
Do-it-yourselfer as well as the experienced mechanic.
Delivery Method:
Download link provided on checkout page after payment completion.
Required Software:
Adobe PDF Reader
Systems Covered:
Engine (internal components, top-end, bottom-end), Clutch assembly, Primary drive system (chain, sprockets), Transmission (gearbox operation, servicing), Kickstarter mechanism, Fuel system (carburetor, fuel lines, tank), Exhaust system (pipes, mufflers), Electrical system (ignition, lighting, charging, starter, wiring), Front suspension (forks, steering head), Rear suspension (shocks, swingarm), Braking system (front and rear brakes, hydraulic lines), Steering system
Wiring Diagrams Coverage:
Detailed wiring diagrams are included, facilitating diagnosis and repair of the electrical system.
Procedures Included:
Complete disassembly and reassembly, troubleshooting of common and complex issues, periodic maintenance tasks (lubrication, fluid changes), tune-up procedures (ignition timing, carburetor adjustment), component repair and replacement (e.g., engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake service, electrical diagnostics), system diagnostics, preventative maintenance
Troubleshooting Emphasis:
Detailed troubleshooting section combined with electrical service procedures and wiring diagrams for ease of diagnosis and repair of electrical system issues.
Instruction Style:
Step-by-step instructions, numbered instructions, detailed substeps, notes, cautions, and warnings.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic maintenance and tune-ups to complete engine rebuilds and advanced electrical system diagnostics. Designed for both DIY enthusiasts and experienced mechanics.
Illustrations Detail:
Hundreds of photos and illustrations, including detailed drawings, diagrams, and enlarged inset views to guide readers through repair procedures.
Information Presentation:
Numbered table of contents for quick information retrieval, bold figure numbers to match illustrations with instructions.
Compatibility:
Works under all PC-based Windows operating systems and Mac.
Storage Options:
Can be saved to hard drive and burned to CD-ROM.
Print Quality:
Printable without restriction. High resolution for clarity.
Page Selection:
Option to print the entire manual or only specific pages.
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Engine Displacement:
73.7 cubic inches (1207 cc)
Engine Configuration:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin
Bore X Stroke:
3.4375 in x 4.25 in (87.31 mm x 107.95 mm)
Compression Ratio:
Typically around 8.5:1 (varies slightly)
Valvetrain:
Overhead valve (OHV), two valves per cylinder
Engine Designation:
Shovelhead
Horsepower:
Approximately 60-65 HP (est.)
Torque:
Approximately 67-70 ft-lbs (est.)
Carburetor:
Keihin Butterfly (e.g., Keihin 36mm) or Linkert (less common on FXS by 1980 but possible)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane recommended
Fuel Capacity:
Typically 3.5 - 4.0 gallons (13.2 - 15.1 L)
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety is assessed differently than cars; focus is on mechanical integrity and rider control)
Active Features:
Disc brakes front and rear, reliable chassis components, user-adjustable suspension.
Passive Features:
Robust frame construction, rider-focused ergonomics for control.
Infotainment Features:
N/A. This era of Harley-Davidson motorcycles prioritized mechanical simplicity and rider connection over electronic amenities.
Driver Assistance Features:
N/A. No electronic driver assistance features were present.
Connectivity Features:
N/A. No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
Engine Oil Change Interval:
Every 2,000-3,000 miles (3,200-4,800 km) or annually, whichever comes first.
Transmission Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-10,000 miles (8,000-16,000 km) or annually.
Primary Chain Tension Adjustment:
Check and adjust every 5,000 miles (8,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 5,000-10,000 miles (8,000-16,000 km) or as needed based on condition.
Engine Oil Type:
Viscosity: SAE 20W50 motorcycle-specific oil. API Service Classification: SG or higher recommended. Harley-Davidson recommends their own brand of V-Twin oil.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson recommended transmission lubricant (e.g., SAE 80W90 gear oil).
Primary Chain Case Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson primary chain case lubricant or SAE 20W50 motor oil.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Oil Viscosity Recommendation:
SAE 20W50 is a common recommendation for Harley-Davidson Shovelheads, providing adequate lubrication and cooling in air-cooled V-twins.
Known Issues:
Shovelhead engines are known for oil leaks, especially around the pushrod tubes and base gaskets. Ignition system reliability can be a concern with older electronic or points systems. Carburetor tuning can require attention. The kickstart mechanism can be challenging for novice riders. Drive belt maintenance and adjustment are crucial.
Brand Heritage:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is one of the oldest motorcycle manufacturers in the world, renowned for its V-twin engines and iconic cruiser styling.
Model Evolution:
The FXS Low Rider was introduced in 1977 as a variation of the FX Super Glide, featuring a lower seat height and revised styling. It became a popular model within the Harley-Davidson lineup.
Production Period For Shovelhead Fx:
Shovelhead engine production spanned from 1966 to 1984. The FXS variant was produced for a significant portion of this period.
