Market Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle Segment
Brand Strength:
Harley-Davidson is a globally recognized and iconic motorcycle brand, known for its distinctive styling, V-twin engines, and strong rider community.
Key Competitors 2007:
Indian Motorcycles, Victory Motorcycles, Honda Shadow series, Yamaha V-Star series, Kawasaki Vulcan series, Suzuki Boulevard series
Vehicle Highlights 2007 Softail:
Timeless styling, comfortable riding position, potent V-twin engine, refined chassis dynamics, robust build quality.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides comprehensive, authoritative information for maintaining and repairing the 2007 Harley-Davidson Softail, enabling owners and technicians to perform tasks correctly and efficiently.
Engine:
Twin Cam 96 (1584cc), Twin Cam 96B (1584cc)
Fuel System:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Ignition System:
Smart Spark Technology (SST)
Transmission:
6-speed Cruise Drive
Clutch:
Hydraulic Assist, Multi-plate Dry Clutch
Chassis Suspension:
Front Telescopic Forks, Rear Monoshock Swingarm Suspension
Brakes:
Hydraulic Disc Brakes (Front and Rear), ABS (Optional)
Electrical System:
12V System, Battery, Charging System, Lighting, Gauges, Switches, ECU
Exhaust System:
Catalytic Converter (where applicable), Mufflers, Headers
Wheels Tires:
Spoke Wheels, Tubeless Tires
Frame:
Steel, Mild Steel Tubing
Bodywork Fittings:
Fenders, Fuel Tank, Seat, Handlebars, Controls, Mirrors
Routine Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Chain Adjustments, Brake Checks, Fluid Level Checks
Engine Overhaul:
Top End Rebuild, Bottom End Rebuild, Piston and Cylinder Servicing, Camshaft Replacement
Transmission Service:
Gearbox Disassembly and Assembly, Clutch Service, Belt Drive Maintenance
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting electrical faults, Wiring Harness Inspection, Component Testing
Suspension Service:
Fork Seal Replacement, Shock Absorber Servicing, Bushing Replacement
Brake System Repair:
Brake Pad Replacement, Caliper Servicing, Bleeding Procedures, Master Cylinder Service
Fuel System Diagnosis:
Fuel Pump Testing, Injector Servicing, Throttle Body Cleaning, EFI System Troubleshooting
Ignition System Calibration:
Spark Plug Replacement, Ignition Module Testing
Wheel Tire Service:
Tire Replacement, Wheel Balancing, Spoke Truing
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common issues, Fault code interpretation
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.
Engine Family:
Harley-Davidson Twin Cam
Engine Code:
Engine designation for 2007 Softail models typically includes '07' prefix.
Displacement:
1584 cc (96 cubic inches)
Configuration:
45-degree V-twin, air-cooled
Bore X Stroke:
3.75 in x 4.38 in (95.25 mm x 111.25 mm)
Compression Ratio:
8.9:1 (Typical)
Horsepower:
Approximately 65-70 HP (Actual figures may vary slightly by model and tuning)
Torque:
Approximately 86-92 ft-lbs @ 3500 RPM (Actual figures may vary slightly by model and tuning)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline, 91 octane or higher recommended
Oil Type Engine:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 Synthetic (20W-50) or equivalent high-quality motorcycle engine oil
Oil Capacity Engine:
Approximately 4.0 US quarts (3.8 L) with filter change
Spark Plugs:
Typically Harley-Davidson or equivalent (e.g., NGK, Champion). Specific part numbers detailed in manual.
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Cruise Drive
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios detailed in the manual (typically: 1st: 9.311, 2nd: 6.650, 3rd: 4.947, 4th: 3.805, 5th: 3.105, 6th: 2.790 - Ratios may vary slightly based on specific Softail model)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic Assist, Multi-plate Dry Clutch
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Transmission Lubricant (75W-140 Synthetic) or equivalent
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approximately 2.7 US quarts (2.5 L)
Final Drive Type:
Belt Drive
Belt Tension Spec:
Specific tension specifications and adjustment procedures detailed in the manual.
Wheelbase:
Varies by specific Softail model (e.g., Fat Boy, Heritage Softail Classic, Night Train). Typical range is 64.5 to 66.5 inches.
Seat Height:
Varies by specific Softail model (e.g., approx. 25.8 inches unladen)
Dry Weight:
Varies by specific Softail model (e.g., approx. 650-700 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Specified per model, typically around 1050-1100 lbs
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Typically 5.0 US gallons (19 L)
Crash Test Ratings:
Motorcycles are not subjected to standardized crash test ratings like automobiles. Safety is based on design, rider skill, and protective gear.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on some 2007 Softail models.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED tail light, turn signals
Chassis Design:
Robust steel frame designed for stability and handling.
Braking Performance:
Dual front disc brakes and single rear disc brake (calibrated for confident stopping).
Gauge Cluster:
Analog speedometer and tachometer, digital odometer, trip meter, fuel gauge, engine diagnostic indicator (CEL), clock. Display features vary by model (e.g., Heritage Softail Classic often has a large console).
ABS:
Optional ABS on select models for enhanced braking control.
Diagnostic Ports:
Data diagnostic port for connection to H-D service tools (e.g., Digital Technician) for fault code reading, system analysis, and tuning.
ECU:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) managing fuel injection, ignition timing, and other engine parameters.
Initial Service:
Typically at 1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Detailed in the owner's manual and expanded upon in this service manual.
Subsequent Service:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months for most checks and fluid changes. More frequent intervals for specific components or severe usage conditions.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
20W-50 (Harley-Davidson SYN3 or equivalent)
Transmission Oil Viscosity:
75W-140 Synthetic
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Harley-Davidson Primary Fluid or Formula+ (or 20W-50 engine oil in certain applications as per manual)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (Check specific brake system for compatibility)
Coolant Type:
N/A (Air-cooled engine)
Engine Oil Capacity With Filter:
Approx. 4.0 US quarts (3.8 L)
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.7 US quarts (2.5 L)
Primary Chain Case Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1.1 US quarts (1.0 L)
Cam Chain Tensioners:
Early Twin Cam engines (prior to significant updates after 2007) had issues with the spring-loaded cam chain tensioners, which could wear prematurely. This manual would detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Oil Leaks:
Common areas for potential leaks include primary cover gaskets, transmission seals, and engine case seals, especially with age. The manual provides detailed procedures for inspection and sealing.
Idle Instability:
Can be related to throttle position sensor (TPS), vacuum leaks, or idle air control (IAC) issues in EFI systems. The manual offers diagnostic steps.
Maintenance Parts Numbers
Oil Filter Part Number:
Commonly Harley-Davidson 63796-77A or equivalent (e.g., Screamin' Eagle filters). Verify with manual/parts catalog.
Air Filter Part Number:
Varies by specific Softail model and air cleaner assembly. Manual will specify or provide guidance for identification.
Spark Plug Part Number:
Typically Harley-Davidson 32311-99 or equivalent (e.g., NGK DCPR7E). Verify with manual/parts catalog.
Iconic Engines:
Panhead, Shovelhead, Evolution, Twin Cam
Softail Introduction Year:
1983
Softail Distinctive Feature:
Hidden rear suspension, mimicking the hardtail look of classic motorcycles.
Twin Cam Introduction:
1999
Manufacturing Location:
United States (Various Harley-Davidson facilities)
Softail Variants 2007:
Includes models like Fat Boy, Heritage Softail Classic, Night Train, Softail Deluxe, Softail Standard, Screamin' Eagle models, etc.
Model Awards 2007:
Specific awards for the 2007 Softail models are not broadly documented in the same way as automotive awards. However, Harley-Davidson motorcycles are consistently recognized by motorcycle enthusiasts and media for their design, performance, and heritage. Individual models like the Heritage Softail Classic often receive accolades for their classic styling.
Owner Satisfaction:
Harley-Davidson generally enjoys high owner satisfaction ratings, particularly for brand loyalty and the riding experience.
Manufacturing Standards:
Manufactured to Harley-Davidson's internal quality and safety standards, which adhere to or exceed industry norms.