Positioning:
Flagship touring cruiser, designed for long-distance comfort and rider experience, representing Harley-Davidson's premium Softail line.
Competitors:
Indian Chief, Victory Kingpin/Hammer, Honda Gold Wing (though often in a slightly different category due to fairing and luggage emphasis), various custom V-twins.
Features Of Vehicle:
Bat-wing fairing with integrated audio, large saddlebags, comfortable seating for rider and passenger, air-cooled V-twin engine, iconic Harley-Davidson styling.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Maintenance, and Repair
Secondary Coverage:
Troubleshooting, Electrical Diagnostics, Component Overhaul
Estimated Page Count:
600-800
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM)
Format:
Printed Book / Digital PDF
Engine:
1450cc (88 cubic inch) Twin Cam 88B Engine: Disassembly, Assembly, Lubrication, Cooling, Timing, Ignition, Fueling
Transmission:
5-Speed Cruise Drive Transmission: Removal, Installation, Clutch, Gearbox Overhaul, Lubrication
Electrical System:
Wiring Diagrams, Battery, Charging System, Ignition System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Accessories, EFI System Diagnostics
Fuel System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Delphi Electronic Control Module (ECM), Throttle Body, Fuel Pump, Injectors, Sensors
Suspension:
Front Fork: Disassembly, Seal Replacement, Oil Specifications; Rear Swingarm and Shocks: Inspection, Adjustment
Brakes:
Hydraulic Disc Brakes (Front and Rear): Master Cylinders, Calipers, Pads, Fluid Bleeding, Hoses
Frame And Body:
Frame Inspection, Bodywork Removal/Installation, Fairing, Saddlebags, Fenders, Seat
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Belt Inspection/Tensioning
Repair:
Engine Rebuild, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Service, Brake System Repair, Electrical Component Replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Flowcharts for Common Issues, Fault Code Interpretation (if applicable to year/system)
Diagnostics:
EFI System Troubleshooting, Ignition System Testing, Charging System Analysis
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical schematics and component specifications.
Digital Format:
Searchable PDF with Bookmarked Sections
Print Quality:
High-Resolution Scans for Clear Illustrations and Text
Printed Binding:
Perfect Bound or Spiral Bound (for lay-flat use)
Printed Paper:
Durable, Glossy Paper Stock (suitable for workshop environments)
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)
Cylinder Head Design:
Pushrod-actuated, overhead valves
Horsepower Estimated:
Approx. 65-70 HP @ 5200 RPM (dependent on tuning and exhaust)
Torque Estimated:
Approx. 86 ft-lbs @ 3500 RPM (dependent on tuning and exhaust)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded, 91 octane (AKI) or higher recommended
Oil Capacity:
4.0 US qt (3.8 L)
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Syn3 Full Synthetic or equivalent API CI-4 rated motorcycle oil
Crash Safety:
Motorcycles typically do not undergo standardized crash testing like automobiles; safety relies on rider skill, protective gear, and vehicle design features.
Braking:
Dual-disc front brakes, single-disc rear brake with braided stainless steel lines.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, integrated front and rear turn signals/running lights.
Chassis Design:
Steel frame providing rigidity and stability.
Ergonomics:
Rider-focused ergonomics for comfort and control on long rides.
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM/WB radio with CD player and handlebar-mounted controls, 20-watt per channel amplifier.
Display:
Digital display integrated into the instrument cluster and infotainment unit.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control for highway comfort.
Auxiliary Input:
Often includes an auxiliary audio input jack for connecting external devices (e.g., MP3 players).
First Service:
1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months (whichever comes first) - typically includes oil change, primary chain case inspection, and general inspection.
Subsequent Service:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months - includes oil change, filter change, spark plugs (at higher intervals), inspection of all systems.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
Refer to Harley-Davidson recommended viscosity for ambient temperature range (e.g., 20W-50 for most conditions).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Hydraulic Fluid
Fork Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Motorcycle Fork Oil or equivalent SAE 15W (check manual for specific weight and quantity)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, brake pads, wheel bearings, primary drive belt, fork seals.
Potential Engine Concerns:
While generally robust, some Twin Cam 88 engines may experience early cam bearing wear or oil leaks if not properly maintained or if subjected to extreme conditions without proper cooling. The 'B' designation signifies the internal counterbalancers for reduced vibration.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Faulty voltage regulators, stator issues, or corroded connections can affect charging system performance.
Heritage:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer renowned for its V-twin engines and distinct styling, embodying freedom and the open road.
Street Glide Introduction:
The Street Glide model was introduced in 2006 as a variation of the Electra Glide Standard, offering a more stripped-down, custom touring look with the bat-wing fairing and saddlebags but without the full tour-pak and trunk amenities.
Softail Platform:
The Softail platform, known for its hidden rear suspension that mimics a hardtail look, has been a core offering for Harley-Davidson since its introduction in 1983.
Manufacturing Location:
York, Pennsylvania, USA and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA (assembly and final assembly points may vary for specific components).
Model Recognition:
The Softail Street Glide is consistently lauded in motorcycle publications and by owners for its blend of touring capability, classic styling, and rider comfort, establishing itself as a strong contender in the long-distance cruiser market.
Owner Satisfaction:
Generally high owner satisfaction, particularly for those who appreciate the Harley-Davidson experience and the comfort of the Street Glide package.