Market Segment:
Cruiser/Custom segment, targeting riders seeking style, performance, and the Harley-Davidson experience.
Competitors:
Key competitors in this era included models from Indian Motorcycle, Victory Motorcycles, and custom builds from aftermarket manufacturers.
Styling:
Low-slung profile, custom chopper styling, blacked-out components, wide handlebars, distinctive Fat Bob fuel tank.
Platform:
Softail chassis, providing the classic hardtail look with concealed rear suspension for improved ride comfort.
Audience:
Riders who appreciate classic styling combined with modern Harley-Davidson performance and reliability, often customization enthusiasts.
Engine:
Twin Cam 96 V-Twin, Engine disassembly, assembly, lubrication, cooling, fuel system, ignition system, starting system, charging system, exhaust system
Transmission:
6-speed Cruise Drive transmission, gearbox disassembly, assembly, clutch, shifting mechanisms, lubrication
Brakes:
Hydraulic disc brakes (front and rear), brake system troubleshooting, fluid replacement, caliper service, master cylinder service
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, ignition, starter, charging system, battery, gauges, switches, control modules, troubleshooting electrical faults
Suspension:
Front fork (telescopic), rear shock absorbers (Softail swingarm design), fork seal replacement, shock absorber adjustment and replacement
Chassis:
Frame, swingarm, steering head, wheels, tires, bearings, body panels, fenders, fuel tank, seat assembly, foot controls
Fuel System:
Fuel injection (EFI), fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, throttle body, diagnostic procedures
Cooling System:
Air-cooled engine (primary), oil cooler operation and maintenance
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil change, filter replacement, brake fluid flush, spark plug replacement, belt tension adjustment, tire pressure checks
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, common problems and solutions, fault code interpretation, electrical troubleshooting
Repair:
Complete disassembly and reassembly procedures for all major components, component-specific repair instructions
Diagnostics:
Engine diagnostics, electrical diagnostics, fuel system diagnostics, use of diagnostic tools (e.g., Harley-Davidson Digital Technician)
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance, in-depth troubleshooting, and complete component overhauls/rebuilds.
Engine Family:
Harley-Davidson Twin Cam
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree 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 valves (OHV), pushrod actuated, two valves per cylinder
Power Output:
Approx. 70-75 HP (52-56 kW) @ 5200 RPM (Est. - varies by dyno and specific tuning)
Torque Output:
Approx. 86-90 lb-ft (116-122 Nm) @ 3500 RPM (Est. - varies by dyno and specific tuning)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Oil Capacity:
4.0 US qt (3.8 L)
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Oil SAE 20W-50 (or equivalent meeting Harley-Davidson specification)
Ignition Type:
High-performance electronic ignition with knock sensor
Transmission Type:
6-speed Cruise Drive Transmission
Clutch:
Hydraulic, multi-plate, wet clutch
Final Drive:
Carbon fiber reinforced belt drive
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Formula + Transmission and Primary Chaincase Lubricant (or equivalent meeting Harley-Davidson specification)
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Primary case: 3.0 US qt (2.8 L)
Safety Ratings:
Motorcycle safety is primarily defined by rider skill and adherence to safe operating practices. No formal crash test ratings apply as with automobiles.
Braking System:
Dual-piston front caliper, single-piston rear caliper with floating rotors.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED tail lamp, amber turn signals, brake light.
Chassis Design:
Robust steel frame designed for stability.
Tires:
Tubeless tires for reduced risk of rapid deflation.
Infotainment System:
Base model; typically no integrated infotainment system beyond basic gauge cluster. Optional audio systems may have been available.
Driver Assistance Features:
None. This era of Harley-Davidson focused on core riding experience rather than electronic rider aids.
Connectivity Features:
None. Primarily mechanical and basic electrical systems.
Gauge Cluster:
Analog speedometer, tachometer (optional on some models or integrated), fuel gauge, oil pressure light, engine diagnostic indicator (ECU fault).
First Service:
1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (Includes engine oil and filter change, primary chaincase oil, inspection of various components).
Subsequent Service:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (Includes engine oil and filter change, inspection of drive belt, brake system, etc.).
Specific Interval Items:
Spark plugs: ~10,000-15,000 miles. Belt tension: Check at 5,000 mile intervals. Brake fluid flush: Every 2 years.
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Oil SAE 20W-50 (or equivalent meeting HD-360 specification)
Primary Chaincase Lubricant:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Formula + Transmission and Primary Chaincase Lubricant (or equivalent meeting H-D specs)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (Check specific Harley-Davidson recommendations for compatibility).
Transmission Fluid:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Formula + Transmission and Primary Chaincase Lubricant (or equivalent)
Common Wear Items:
Drive belt wear, clutch cable adjustment, wheel bearings, fork seals, exhaust system integrity.
Engine Performance Quirks:
Some Twin Cam 96 models can exhibit oil consumption if not properly maintained or if pushed excessively hard. Catalytic converter efficiency can degrade over time.
Electrical Concerns:
While generally reliable, older wiring harnesses can degrade, and connectors may corrode, leading to intermittent issues. Battery maintenance is crucial.
Oil Filter Typical:
Harley-Davidson 63796-77A (or equivalent aftermarket)
Air Filter Typical:
Harley-Davidson 29000004 (or equivalent aftermarket)
Heritage:
Harley-Davidson has a rich history dating back to 1903, synonymous with American motorcycle culture, V-twin engines, and customization.
Softail Lineage:
The Softail platform, introduced in 1983, mimics the rigid 'hardtail' look of classic motorcycles while incorporating hidden rear suspension for improved ride quality. The Night Train (FXSTB) was introduced to offer a darker, more aggressive styling option within the Softail family.
Production Period:
The FXSTB Softail Night Train was produced from 2006 to 2009. This manual covers the 2007 model year.
Assembly Location:
Typically assembled at Harley-Davidson's York, Pennsylvania, or Kansas City, Missouri facilities.