Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle Segment
Target Audience:
Owners, Technicians, Enthusiasts performing maintenance and repairs
Competitors:
Other American V-twin cruisers of the era (e.g., Indian, less direct competitors from Japanese manufacturers)
Design Philosophy:
Classic Harley-Davidson styling with modern (for the time) engineering, focus on torque and rider comfort
Model Significance:
Represents a significant period in the evolution of the Softail platform, particularly with the introduction and refinement of the Evolution engine
Engine:
Evolution (V-Twin) Engine; Top End (Cylinder Heads, Cylinders, Pistons), Bottom End (Crankcase, Crankshaft, Connecting Rods), Camshafts, Valve Train, Lubrication System, Ignition System, Carburetion (Keihin CV), Fuel Delivery
Transmission:
5-Speed Cruise Drive Transmission; Clutch, Gearbox Internals, Shift Mechanism, Primary Drive (Chain/Belt), Final Drive (Belt/Chain)
Chassis:
Frame, Swingarm, Suspension (Front Forks - Showa/Garbini, Rear Shocks), Steering Head Bearings, Wheels, Tires, Brakes (Front/Rear Disc Brakes - Calipers, Master Cylinders, Lines), Controls (Handlebars, Levers, Pedals)
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Battery, Charging System (Stator, Regulator/Rectifier), Ignition System, Lighting System (Headlight, Taillight, Signals), Gauges (Speedometer, Tachometer), Starting System (Starter Motor, Solenoid), Horn, Accessory Wiring
Bodywork And Trim:
Fenders, Fuel Tank, Seat, Handlebars, Exhaust System, Mirrors, Footboards/Pegs, Body Panels, Paint and Finish
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Belt Adjustments, Chain Adjustments, Brake Pad Replacement, Tire Rotations
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures for Engine, Transmission, Electrical, and Chassis Issues; Fault Code Interpretation (if applicable); Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides
Repair:
Component Disassembly, Reassembly, and Adjustment Procedures for all major systems; Overhaul Procedures for Engine and Transmission; Brake System Bleeding and Service; Suspension Component Service
Technical Specifications:
Detailed Torque Specifications for all fasteners, Valve Clearances, Timing Marks, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Component Specifications, Performance Data
Depth:
Complete Rebuild and Overhaul, Advanced Diagnostics, Detailed Repair Procedures
Engine Type:
Harley-Davidson Evolution V-Twin (Pushrod Overhead Valve)
Displacement Variants:
Primarily 1340cc (82 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.50 in x 4.25 in (approximate)
Compression Ratio:
Approx. 8.3:1 to 9.0:1 (varies by year/model)
Cooling System:
Air-Cooled
Horsepower Estimate:
Approx. 60-70 HP (at crank, varies by year/tuning)
Torque Estimate:
Approx. 70-80 ft-lbs (at crank, varies by year/tuning)
Carburetor Type:
Keihin CV (Constant Velocity) 40mm
Fuel Requirement:
Unleaded Gasoline, Octane Rating 87 Minimum (RON+MON)/2
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Recommended V-Twin Oil or Equivalent API SG/SH/SJ SAE 20W50
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4 Quarts (3.8 Liters) with filter change
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition (CDI or similar)
Spark Plugs:
Harley-Davidson OEM or NGK/Champion equivalents (e.g., NGK DCPR7E)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Constant Mesh
Primary Drive:
Multi-plate Wet Clutch, Chain Drive (early) or Belt Drive (later models)
Final Drive:
Belt Drive (most models)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic Clutch Actuation (introduced over the years)
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Transmission Lubricant or Equivalent SAE 80W-90 API GL-4
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1 Quart (0.95 Liters)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 63.5 inches (1613 mm)
Length:
Approx. 92.5 inches (2350 mm)
Width:
Approx. 37 inches (940 mm)
Seat Height:
Approx. 26 inches (660 mm) (unladen)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 550-600 lbs (250-270 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 950 lbs (431 kg)
Fuel Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 US gallons (15.1 Liters)
Tire Size Front:
Typically 100/90-19 or similar
Tire Size Rear:
Typically 130/90-16 or similar
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
N/A (Hub-mounted wheels)
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety standards differ from automobiles; focus on component integrity and design)
Braking System:
Dual disc front brakes, Single disc rear brake with hydraulic actuation
Lighting:
Halogen Headlamp, LED Tail Lamp (later models), Incandescent Turn Signals
Frame Construction:
Steel tube frame providing structural integrity
Suspension Design:
Designed for stability and rider control
Features:
Basic analog instrumentation (speedometer, odometer, tachometer, fuel gauge), often no integrated audio or navigation systems on base models of this era. Later models might offer optional radio/stereo systems.
Features:
None typical for the era, focus is on rider control and machine feedback.
Features:
No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB ports.
Initial Service:
Typically 1,000 miles (1600 km) - oil change, filter replacement, inspection
Subsequent Oil Changes:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first
Belt Tension Check:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or as needed based on inspection
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson V-Twin Oil or equivalent API SG/SH/SJ SAE 20W50
Transmission Oil:
Harley-Davidson Transmission Lubricant or equivalent SAE 80W-90 API GL-4
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Harley-Davidson Primary Chain Lubricant or equivalent SAE 85W-140 (for chain drive) / Transmission Oil (for belt drive primary)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Synthetic Brake Fluid
Common Issues:
Rear main seal leaks, primary compensator wear, carburetor jetting issues (especially in changing altitudes), ignition module failures, starter clutch issues, cam bearing wear
Preventative Measures:
Regular maintenance as per manual, using quality fluids, periodic inspection of key wear items
Brand History:
Founded in 1903, Harley-Davidson is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer renowned for its V-twin engines and cruiser-style motorcycles.
Softail Introduction:
The Softail platform was introduced in 1983, featuring hidden rear shock absorbers to mimic the look of a hardtail frame while providing modern suspension comfort. FXST and FLST are key designations within the Softail family.
Evolution Engine Era:
The period covered (1984-1999) largely corresponds with the adoption and refinement of the Evolution engine, which replaced the Shovelhead and Ironhead engines. This engine brought significant improvements in reliability and performance.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA and York, Pennsylvania, USA
Brand Recognition:
Harley-Davidson is consistently ranked among the top motorcycle brands globally for its heritage, build quality, and iconic status.
Model Popularity:
Softail models are highly sought after by enthusiasts for their classic styling and V-twin performance, making them popular in the used market.
Certification:
N/A (Motorcycles are certified by regulatory bodies, not typically 'awarded' in the automotive sense).
