Segment:
Full-size touring motorcycle
Target Audience:
Long-distance touring riders, Harley-Davidson enthusiasts, DIY mechanics
Key Competitors:
Honda Gold Wing, Yamaha Royal Star Venture, Kawasaki Voyager
Distinctive Features:
Sport touring variant, often featuring a more performance-oriented setup compared to standard Electra Glides of the era.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive factory-level repair and maintenance data for owners and technicians.
Powertrain:
Engine, Transmission, Primary Drive, Final Drive, Clutch
Chassis:
Frame, Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering, Brakes (Front and Rear), Wheels and Tires
Electrical System:
Ignition System, Lighting, Charging System, Starting System, Instrumentation, Wiring Diagrams, Accessories
Body And Trim:
Fairings, Saddlebags, Bodywork, Trim Pieces, Seats
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication, adjustments
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, common problem identification and solutions
Repair And Overhaul:
Detailed disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly instructions for all major components
Special Tools And Techniques:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for service and repair
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostics for electrical and mechanical systems
Rebuild Instructions:
Comprehensive rebuild procedures for engine, transmission, and other major assemblies
Specifications And Tolerances:
Precise measurements, clearances, torque specifications, and tolerances for all components
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Evolution V-twin (Evo Big Twin)
Displacement:
1339 cc (82 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.49 in x 4.25 in (88.8 mm x 107.95 mm)
Compression Ratio:
8.5:1 (Typical)
Valve Train:
Overhead Valve (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder
Cooling System:
Air-cooled
Horsepower Estimated:
Approx. 65-70 HP (at crankshaft)
Torque Estimated:
Approx. 75-80 lb-ft (at crankshaft)
Fuel Delivery:
Carbureted (Keihin Butterfly Carburetor, typically 40mm)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline, Minimum 87 Octane
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson 20W50 Motorcycle Oil or equivalent API SG rated
Transmission Type:
5-speed constant mesh manual
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate
Primary Drive:
Chain-driven, 1.476:1 ratio
Final Drive:
Belt drive, 3.15:1 ratio
Gear Ratios:
1st: 10.110, 2nd: 6.909, 3rd: 5.014, 4th: 3.870, 5th: 3.150 (Typical, check manual for exact ratios)
Transmission Fluid:
Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission Oil or equivalent SAE 80W-90 GL-5 gear oil
Wheelbase:
Approx. 63.2 inches (1605 mm)
Length:
Approx. 93.5 inches (2375 mm)
Seat Height:
Approx. 28.5 inches (724 mm) (Unladen)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 715 lbs (324 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 1160 lbs (526 kg)
Fuel Capacity:
5.0 gallons (18.9 liters)
Front Tire Size:
MT90B16 (or equivalent 130/90B16)
Rear Tire Size:
130/90B16
Wheel Type:
Cast aluminum alloy (standard), Spoked (optional on some models)
Wheel Size Front:
16 inches
Wheel Size Rear:
16 inches
Safety Certification:
Meets applicable US DOT standards for motorcycles.
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes front and rear
Front Brake Spec:
Dual 11.5-inch (292 mm) discs with 4-piston calipers
Rear Brake Spec:
11.5-inch (292 mm) disc with 4-piston caliper
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight and stoplight, turn signals
Frame Construction:
Steel, tubular frame
Audio System:
Factory-equipped AM/FM stereo with cassette player (on some models).
Speakers:
Fairing-mounted speakers.
Cruise Control:
Available as an option or on higher trims of the Electra Glide line during these years.
Connectivity Features:
Limited to the integrated audio system; no modern Bluetooth or smartphone integration.
First Service:
Approx. 1,000 miles (1600 km) or 3 months
Subsequent Services:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months (Check manual for precise intervals)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.5 quarts (3.3 liters) with filter change
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1.0 quart (0.95 liters)
Primary Chain Case Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1.0 quart (0.95 liters)
Common Wear Items:
Cam chain tensioners (early Evo models can wear out), primary chain wear, rear belt tension, carburetor tuning, electrical connectors.
Engine Specific Notes:
The Evolution engine (Evo) is generally robust, but attention to oil changes and proper lubrication is crucial for longevity. Cam chain tensioner upgrades are a common aftermarket modification for earlier Evo models.
Brand Legacy:
Harley-Davidson, established 1903, iconic American motorcycle manufacturer with a rich history in V-twin engines and touring bikes.
Electra Glide Lineage:
The Electra Glide line has been a cornerstone of Harley-Davidson's touring offerings since the 1960s. The FLHS variant represented a sportier iteration within the Electra Glide family during the late 80s and early 90s.
Production Period:
Harley-Davidson FLHS models were produced in this form primarily between 1987 and 1993.
Manufacturing Location:
York, Pennsylvania, USA
Industry Standing:
Harley-Davidson motorcycles of this era are celebrated for their iconic styling, V-twin rumble, and touring capability. The FLHS offered a blend of comfort and a slightly sportier feel, making it popular among riders seeking performance for longer journeys.
Owner Satisfaction:
Generally high owner satisfaction, particularly among dedicated Harley-Davidson enthusiasts, due to the model's character and touring comfort.