Market Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Key Selling Points:
Custom styling, powerful V-twin engine, riding comfort
Key Competitors 2009:
Indian Chief, Yamaha V-Star Custom, Honda Shadow Spirit, Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic
Model Highlights:
Blacked-out styling, low-slung profile, forward foot controls, exposed rear shocks
Engine System:
Complete engine overhaul, diagnostics, tuning, fuel injection, ignition system, lubrication
Transmission System:
Clutch, primary drive, transmission operation, disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition, starting system, charging system, sensors, ECM, diagnostics
Chassis System:
Frame, suspension (front forks, rear shocks), steering, wheels, tires, brakes (hydraulic, ABS if applicable)
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, injectors, throttle body, fuel pressure testing, EVAP system
Exhaust System:
Exhaust pipes, mufflers, catalytic converter (if applicable), oxygen sensors
Bodywork And Trim:
Fenders, fuel tank, seat, fairings, handlebars, controls, emblems
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacement, spark plug service, chain adjustment, brake fluid flush, tire pressure checks
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper replacement, fork seal replacement, electrical component repair
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based problem solving, error code interpretation
Diagnostic Procedures:
Using diagnostic tools (e.g., Harley-Davidson Digital Technician), sensor testing, actuator testing
Special Tools Procedures:
Use of specialized Harley-Davidson tools for specific maintenance and repair tasks
Technical Depth Level:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds)
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Twin Cam 96B V-twin
Engine Displacement:
96 cu. in. (1584 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.75 in. x 4.38 in. (95.25 mm x 111.25 mm)
Valve Train:
Pushrod-actuated, overhead valves with hydraulic lifters; two valves per cylinder
Horsepower Est Hp:
Approx. 70-75 hp (at rear wheel, varies with exhaust/tuning)
Torque Est Lb-Ft:
Approx. 86-90 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (at rear wheel, varies with exhaust/tuning)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) with O2 sensors
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline, minimum 91 octane
Fuel Tank Capacity:
5.0 gallons (18.9 L)
Safety Certifications:
Meets DOT requirements
Braking System:
Hydraulic front and rear disc brakes; Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED tail light, incandescent turn signals
Frame Construction:
Steel, under-seat, backbone design
Audio System:
N/A (Base model typically does not include audio system)
Display:
Analog speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, odometer, gear indicator
ABS Availability:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Diagnostics Port:
Service connector for diagnostic tools (e.g., Harley-Davidson Digital Technician)
First Service:
1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months
Subsequent Service:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months thereafter
Engine Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months
Engine Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 Full Synthetic SAE 20W-50 or equivalent API CI-4 certified motorcycle oil
Engine Oil Capacity:
3.5 US quarts (3.3 L) with filter change
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ Transmission Lubricant or equivalent SAE 80W-90 hypoid gear oil
Transmission Oil Capacity:
2.7 US quarts (2.56 L)
Primary Chain Case Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ Transmission Lubricant or equivalent
Primary Chain Case Oil Capacity:
1.0 US quart (0.95 L)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (for ABS models, consult specific service manual section)
Coolant Type:
N/A (Air-cooled engine)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, brake pads, fork seals, drive belt, wheel bearings
Potential Engine Concerns:
Lifter noise (especially with mineral oil), exhaust leaks, throttle body synchronization issues
Potential Electrical Concerns:
Wiring harness chafing, regulator/rectifier failure, battery drain issues
Brand Legacy:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, known for its iconic V-twin engines and American motorcycle culture.
Softail Lineage:
The Softail platform, introduced in 1983, mimics the appearance of a hardtail frame with hidden rear suspension components.
Night Train Introduction:
The FXSTB Night Train was part of the Softail family, characterized by its blacked-out styling and aggressive cruiser aesthetic.
Production Years:
2000-2011 (FXSTB model variation)
Manufacturing Location:
United States (Various Harley-Davidson facilities)