Category:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Segment:
American V-Twin cruiser, known for its classic styling and customizable nature.
Competitors:
Other Harley-Davidson Softail models, Indian Chief models, and certain American V-twin offerings from custom builders.
Design Philosophy:
Classic Harley-Davidson styling with modern performance and technology, emphasizing a rigid, hardtail appearance with hidden rear suspension.
Engine Type:
Harley-Davidson Twin Cam 96 V-twin engine.
Suspension Design:
Softail chassis with concealed, horizontally mounted rear shock absorbers.
Customization:
Platform highly favored for aftermarket customization and personalization.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed overhaul, inspection, and repair of the Twin Cam 96 engine, including cylinder heads, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing, lubrication system, and cooling (air-cooled).
Fuel System:
EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection) system diagnosis and repair, throttle body, fuel injectors, fuel pump, fuel pressure regulator, and fuel lines.
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, ignition system (spark plugs, coils, module), charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), starting system (starter motor, solenoid), lighting, instrumentation, and accessories.
Transmission Drivetrain:
5-speed Cruise Drive transmission overhaul, inspection, clutch service, primary drive maintenance, and final belt drive adjustment and inspection.
Suspension Steering:
Front fork (telescopic) overhaul, inspection, and fluid changes. Rear shock absorber inspection and replacement. Steering head bearing adjustment and replacement.
Braking System:
Front and rear brake caliper overhaul, pad replacement, fluid flush and bleed, master cylinder service, and hydraulic line inspection.
Chassis Frame:
Frame inspection, swingarm pivot bearing service, and general chassis component checks.
Bodywork Fittings:
Fender removal and installation, fuel tank mounting and removal, seat service, and minor body panel adjustments.
Maintenance:
Routine service tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks, air filter cleaning/replacement, brake fluid changes, belt tension checks, and lubrication points.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common problems, including engine performance issues, electrical faults, starting problems, and braking system complaints.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation for virtually all major vehicle systems.
Diagnostics:
Guidance on interpreting diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) if applicable, using diagnostic tools, and performing specific system checks.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearance measurements, fluid capacities, and electrical resistance/voltage values.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic owner maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including in-depth electrical troubleshooting.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Twin Cam 96 V-twin
Displacement:
96 cubic inches (1584 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.75 in. x 4.38 in. (95.25 mm x 111.25 mm)
Valve Train:
Overhead valve, pushrod actuated, 4 valves per cylinder (2 per cylinder)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) with closed-loop fuel control
Horsepower:
Approx. 75-80 HP (claimed, flywheel)
Torque:
Approx. 95-100 lb-ft @ 3000 RPM (claimed, flywheel)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
5.0 US gallons (18.9 L)
Type:
5-speed Cruise Drive constant mesh, helical gear
Clutch:
Clutched, wet, multi-plate
Primary Drive:
Dual-row chain, 34/46 ratio
Final Drive:
Carbon fiber reinforced belt, 32/66 ratio
Gear Ratios:
1st: 9.312, 2nd: 6.516, 3rd: 4.733, 4th: 3.831, 5th: 3.157
First Service:
Initial service typically at 1,000 miles (1600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Includes engine oil and filter change, check clutch and brake levers, inspect tire pressure, check drive belt tension.
Subsequent Service:
Routine service every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months thereafter. This typically includes engine oil and filter change, check all fluid levels, inspect brakes, check tire pressure and condition, lubricate controls and cables, check primary chain/belt tension, inspect spark plugs.
Major Service Items:
Spark plug replacement typically at 10,000-15,000 miles. Fuel filter replacement (if applicable to EFI system) and brake fluid flush typically every 2 years or as recommended.
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson Genuine V-Twin Synthetic SAE 20W-50 or equivalent API CI-4 or ACEA E7 rated oil. Capacity: 4.0 US quarts (3.8 L) with filter change.
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Formula + Transmission, Primary Chaincase Lubricant SAE 50 or equivalent. Capacity: 3.0 US quarts (2.8 L).
Transmission Oil:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Formula + Transmission, Primary Chaincase Lubricant SAE 50 or equivalent. Capacity: 0.9 US quarts (0.85 L).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 High Performance Hydraulic Fluid.
Fork Oil:
Harley-Davidson Screamin' Eagle High Performance Fork Oil SAE 15W or equivalent (specific weight may vary by rider preference and fork type; refer to manual for exact specification). Capacity: Approx. 11.7 US fl oz (345 ml) per fork leg.
Engine Performance:
Some riders report minor performance fluctuations or slight hesitation under certain conditions, often addressable with EFI tuning or clutch adjustments. Cam chain tensioner wear can occur over high mileage.
Electrical:
Battery terminal corrosion or loose connections can cause starting issues. Regulator/rectifier failures have been reported in some Harley-Davidson models of this era, though less common on the Twin Cam 96.
Drivetrain:
Drive belt wear is normal; proper tension is crucial. Clutch wear is dependent on riding style. Primary bearing or seal leaks can occur over time.
Legacy:
Harley-Davidson has a long-standing heritage dating back to 1903, synonymous with American motorcycle culture and V-twin engines.
Softail Lineage:
The Softail platform, introduced in 1984, revolutionized the cruiser market by offering the classic look of a hardtail with the comfort of rear suspension.
Fxst Evolution:
The FXST Softail Standard represents a foundational model in the Softail family, often serving as a customizable base for riders.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (various Harley-Davidson facilities).
