Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Harley Davidson Heritage:
Harley Davidson is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer with a legacy of producing V-twin powered motorcycles known for their distinct styling and sound.
Competitors 2006:
Indian Motorcycle, Victory Motorcycles, Custom Choppers, and other American V-twin manufacturers.
Styling:
Classic retro styling, wide whitewall tires, distinctive chrome accents, large swept-back handlebars, bobtail fender.
Ride Experience:
Comfortable, relaxed riding position ideal for cruising.
Diy Maintenance:
Empowers owners to perform essential maintenance and repairs, saving on dealership costs and ensuring longevity.
Diagnostic Aid:
Crucial for accurate diagnosis of issues, reducing guesswork and preventing misdiagnosis.
Engine:
Service, maintenance, diagnostics, and repair for the Harley Davidson Twin Cam 88B engine.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (if applicable) or fuel injection system (EFI) maintenance, troubleshooting, and component replacement.
Ignition System:
Ignition timing, spark plugs, ignition coils, and related diagnostics.
Transmission:
Operation, maintenance, and repair of the 5-speed constant mesh transmission.
Clutch:
Clutch system service, adjustment, and component replacement.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, charging system (alternator, regulator), starting system (starter, solenoid), battery, lighting, and accessory circuits.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system service, hydraulic components, pad replacement, bleeding procedures.
Suspension:
Front fork (telescopic) service, rear shock absorber maintenance and replacement.
Frame And Bodywork:
Chassis inspection, body panel removal/installation, fenders, fuel tank, seat assembly.
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel bearing service, tire mounting and balancing, spoke wheel maintenance (if applicable).
Steering:
Handlebar, steering head bearing service, and adjustment.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust system inspection, component replacement.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, air filter service, spark plug replacement, lubrication points.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation (if applicable).
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly.
Adjustment Procedures:
Carburetor synchronization (if applicable), clutch and brake lever adjustments, idle speed adjustment.
Rebuild Instructions:
Detailed instructions for engine, transmission, and carburetor/injector rebuilds.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all circuits.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostic information, including symptom-based troubleshooting and component testing.
Specifications Data:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, wear limits.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Twin Cam 88B V-twin
Displacement:
1450 cc (88 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.75 in. x 4.00 in. (95.25 mm x 101.6 mm)
Horsepower Est:
Approximately 65-70 HP (variations exist based on tuning)
Torque Est:
Approximately 80-85 ft-lbs (variations exist based on tuning)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) or Keihin CV 40 Carburetor (depending on market/specific variant, but 2006 FLSTN typically EFI).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (RON+MON)/2
Oil Capacity:
3.5 US qt (3.3 L)
Oil Type:
Harley Davidson 20W-50 SYN3 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil or equivalent.
Type:
5-speed, constant mesh, helical gears
Gear Ratios:
1st: 10.063; 2nd: 6.772; 3rd: 4.768; 4th: 3.789; 5th: 3.207
Options:
N/A for this model year and trim.
Primary Drive:
Duplex chain, 34/46 ratio
Final Drive:
Belt drive, 32/66 ratio
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
30 US fl oz (0.88 L)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Harley Davidson Formula+ Transmission Lubricant or equivalent.
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety standards differ from automobiles and are not rated by traditional agencies like NHTSA).
Brakes:
Dual-action front brake lever, rear brake pedal; hydraulic disc brakes front and rear.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, taillight, brake light, front and rear turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Steel frame and swingarm designed for stability and rider confidence.
Ergonomics:
Low seat height and comfortable rider triangle contribute to control and stability.
Audio System:
Optional factory-fitted audio systems were available, often featuring AM/FM radio and CD player with handlebar-mounted controls.
Display:
Analog speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, and indicator lights integrated into the dashboard or handlebar risers.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on many Harley-Davidson models in this era, including potentially the FLSTN.
Cruise Control:
Electronic cruise control was often an optional accessory or factory-fitted feature on Softail models of this generation.
Initial Service:
Typically at 1,000 miles (1,600 km) for break-in service.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first.
Primary Chain Tensioner Inspection:
Check at 1,000 miles and every 10,000 miles thereafter.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years or as needed based on inspection.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
20W-50
Engine Oil Spec:
Harley Davidson SYN3 or API CI-4/SL rated motorcycle oil.
Transmission Oil Spec:
Harley Davidson Formula+ Transmission Lubricant.
Primary Chain Case Oil Spec:
Harley Davidson Formula+ Transmission Lubricant.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 (or per manual).
Primary Drive Tensioner:
The early Twin Cam 88B models had a hydraulic primary chain tensioner that could wear out, leading to noise and potential damage if not addressed. Later models (including many 2006 versions) might have updated components or can be retrofitted.
Cam Chain Tensioner:
Similar to the primary tensioner, the cam chain tensioners can wear over time. Inspecting and potentially upgrading to more robust aftermarket tensioners is a common modification.
Rear Cylinder Overheating:
Due to the V-twin configuration, the rear cylinder can run hotter. Proper maintenance and adequate airflow are crucial.
Carburetor Issues:
If equipped with a carburetor, issues like sticking slides or float bowl problems can occur with age and fuel quality.
Founding:
Founded in 1903, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Iconic Models:
Sportster, Dyna, Softail, Touring models, Electra Glide.
Softail Introduction:
The Softail platform, introduced in 1983, is characterized by its hidden rear suspension, mimicking the appearance of a hardtail frame.
Flstn Introduction:
The FLSTN Softail Deluxe was introduced as a retro-styled cruiser, paying homage to classic Harley-Davidson designs of the past.
Twin Cam 88B Development:
The Twin Cam 88B engine, launched in 1999, was a significant update from the Evolution engine, featuring a larger displacement and internal balancing for reduced vibration.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (primarily York, Pennsylvania, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin)
Market Relevance 2006:
The 2006 model year was a period of continued popularity for the Softail line, with the Deluxe offering a distinctively vintage aesthetic.
Motorcycle Popularity:
Harley-Davidson consistently ranks as a top-selling motorcycle brand in the United States and enjoys strong global brand recognition.
Flstn Specific Awards:
While specific 'awards' are not typically given to individual model years, the Softail line has received numerous accolades for its styling, ride quality, and overall appeal in the cruiser market.
Owner Satisfaction:
Harley-Davidson motorcycles generally achieve high owner satisfaction ratings, particularly among enthusiasts who appreciate the brand's heritage and customization potential.