Vehicle Segment:
Cruiser motorcycle, known for its classic styling and comfortable riding position.
Brand Philosophy:
Harley-Davidson's emphasis on freedom, individuality, and the open road is embodied in the Softail line.
Competitors:
Competes with models from Indian Motorcycle, Victory Motorcycles (discontinued), and other custom-style cruisers from Japanese manufacturers.
Softail Suspension:
The Softail chassis is characterized by its hidden rear shock absorbers, mimicking the look of a hardtail frame while providing modern ride comfort.
Engine Platform:
Features Harley-Davidson's renowned Twin Cam engine, known for its torque and distinctive V-twin rumble.
Utility For Owners:
Empowers owners to perform routine maintenance, diagnose issues, and undertake repairs themselves, saving time and money while fostering a deeper connection with their machine.
Professional Utility:
Indispensable tool for independent repair shops and mobile mechanics working on Harley-Davidson motorcycles.
Engine System:
Engine disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting, diagnostics, specifications, performance tuning for Twin Cam 96 engines.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection (EFI) system components, fuel pump, injectors, throttle body, sensors, fuel lines, fuel tank maintenance and troubleshooting.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Primary drive, clutch, transmission (6-speed Cruise Drive), final drive, belt drive maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), ignition system, lighting, starting system, wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnostic codes.
Suspension Steering:
Front fork (telescopic), rear shock absorbers, swingarm, steering head bearings, lubrication, adjustment, and replacement.
Braking System:
Front and rear brake calipers, master cylinders, brake lines, brake fluid, ABS (if equipped), bleeding procedures, pad and rotor replacement.
Wheel Tire:
Wheel bearing maintenance, tire inspection and replacement, wheel balancing, spoke tension (if applicable).
Frame Bodywork:
Frame inspection, fairings, fenders, fuel tank removal/installation, seat assembly, and other body components.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, chain adjustment (if applicable, though typically belt drive), lubrication points.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues across all systems.
Repair Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of major and minor components.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Reading diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), circuit testing, using multimeters and diagnostic tools.
Suspension Adjustment:
Front fork adjustments, rear shock preload and damping adjustments.
Brake System Maintenance:
Brake fluid flush and replacement, pad and rotor replacement procedures.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic owner maintenance to advanced engine rebuilds and electrical system diagnostics.
Diagnostic Charts:
Includes detailed diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-to-cause correlation tables.
Torque Specifications:
Exact torque values for all fasteners and critical components.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed, color-coded wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, facilitating troubleshooting.
Engine Family:
Twin Cam 96
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin
Displacement:
1584 cc (96 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.75 in. x 4.38 in. (95.25 mm x 111.25 mm)
Horsepower Estimate:
Approximately 70-75 HP (stock, at crankshaft, varies slightly by specific calibration)
Torque Estimate:
Approximately 90-95 ft-lbs (stock, at crankshaft, varies slightly by specific calibration)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane recommended
Oil System:
Dry sump with oil tank integrated into the frame backbone.
Ignition System:
High-performance electronic ignition.
Transmission Type:
6-speed Cruise Drive
Primary Drive:
Duplex chain, 34/46 ratio.
Final Drive:
Belt, 32/65 ratio (2.031:1).
Clutch Type:
Clutched primary drive, wet multi-plate.
Gear Ratios:
1st: 9.312, 2nd: 6.650, 3rd: 4.948, 4th: 3.824, 5th: 3.175, 6th: 2.790
Transmission Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission, or SAE 50 gear oil (check manual for exact spec).
Crash Test Ratings:
Motorcycles of this era are not typically subjected to standardized crash testing protocols like automobiles.
Braking System Type:
Hydraulic disc brakes, front and rear. Some models may have ABS option.
Front Brake:
Dual 292 mm discs, 4-piston calipers.
Rear Brake:
Single 292 mm disc, 4-piston caliper.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED tail lamp and brake lamp, incandescent turn signals (typical).
First Service:
Typically at 1,000 miles (1,600 km) for initial break-in service, including oil change, filter, and inspection.
Subsequent Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first.
Belt Check:
Inspect belt tension and condition every 5,000 miles.
Brake Fluid:
Replace brake fluid every two years.
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 Full Synthetic (20W-50) or equivalent premium motorcycle oil meeting Harley-Davidson specifications.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4 US quarts (3.8 L) with filter change.
Primary Chain Case Fluid:
Harley-Davidson Primary Chaincase Lubricant, or Formula + Transmission Lubricant.
Primary Chain Case Capacity:
Approximately 1 US quart (0.95 L).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (or as specified by Harley-Davidson, check manual for ABS if applicable).
Crank Position Sensor:
Potential for crank position sensor failure leading to starting issues or stalling.
Cam Chain Tensioner:
Hydraulic cam chain tensioners can wear, requiring replacement, especially on earlier Twin Cam models.
Fuel Line Fittings:
Early models had potential issues with fuel line quick-disconnect fittings; later revisions improved reliability.
Regulator Rectifier:
Common failure point across many Harley-Davidson models, leading to charging system issues.
Founding:
Founded in 1903 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Harley-Davidson is one of the oldest motorcycle manufacturers in the world.
Legacy:
Known for its iconic V-twin engines, distinctive styling, and strong brand loyalty.
Softail Introduction:
The Softail platform was introduced in 1983, designed by Bill Davis, and acquired by Harley-Davidson in 1983. It aimed to replicate the rigid look of older hardtail frames with hidden suspension.
Fxst Lineage:
The FXST designation historically represents a blend of the 'F' (standard) and 'ST' (Softail) series, often featuring custom styling cues.
Manufacturing Location:
Typically produced in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA, or at Harley-Davidson's York, Pennsylvania facility.
Model Significance 2009:
The 2009 Softail Standard continued Harley-Davidson's commitment to its classic cruiser aesthetic, powered by the then-current Twin Cam 96 engine.