Market Position:
The FLSTFB Fat Boy Lo is positioned as a stylish, low-profile cruiser within Harley-Davidson's Softail family, appealing to riders who appreciate classic styling with modern performance. It offers a relaxed riding posture and a distinctive aesthetic.
Competitive Analysis:
Competes with other cruiser motorcycles offering similar styling and displacement from brands like Indian Motorcycle, Victory Motorcycles (historically), and Japanese manufacturers with cruiser offerings.
Key Features:
Blacked-out styling, low seat height, Fat front tire, Twin Cam 103 engine, Softail chassis with hidden rear suspension, classic Fat Boy design cues.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Electrical System, Chassis, Suspension, Brakes, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Bodywork, Controls, Cooling System (if applicable), Lubrication System
Electrical System Details:
Wiring diagrams, component identification, testing procedures for ignition, lighting, starting, charging, and accessory circuits.
Chassis Details:
Frame inspection, suspension component removal/installation, steering head bearing service, wheel and tire service.
Brake System Details:
Brake pad replacement, caliper service, hydraulic system bleeding, master cylinder inspection, rotor service.
Engine Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for engine disassembly, inspection of internal components, piston and ring installation, valve train service, and reassembly.
Fuel System Details:
Fuel tank removal/installation, fuel pump service, fuel injector cleaning and testing, throttle body service.
Exhaust System Details:
Exhaust pipe and muffler removal/installation, heat shield service, gasket replacement.
Procedures Included:
Maintenance, Adjustments, Service, Removal, Installation, Disassembly, Assembly, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Repair, Rebuild Procedures, Lubrication Specifications, Torque Specifications, Wear Limits
Troubleshooting Procedures:
Extensive troubleshooting guides for various systems, including diagnostic flowcharts, common fault identification, and corrective actions for electrical and mechanical issues.
Special Tool References:
References specific Harley-Davidson special service tool numbers required for various repair and adjustment operations, often accompanied by illustrations of the tools in use.
Component Adjustment:
Detailed instructions for adjusting clutch, throttle, idle speed, primary chain, and other necessary adjustments for optimal performance and longevity.
Technical Depth:
Detailed, comprehensive, step-by-step procedures with pictorial diagrams, exploded views, and photographs; covers basic to advanced repair and maintenance, including factory specifications and allowable limits.
Diagnostic Information:
Includes diagnostic procedures, fault codes (if applicable to the vehicle's electronics), and testing methods for components.
Torque Specifications:
Comprehensive torque charts for all critical fasteners across the motorcycle, essential for proper assembly and preventing damage or component failure.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Twin Cam 103™
Displacement:
1690 cc (103 cu. in.)
Bore X Stroke:
3.875 in. x 4.38 in. (98.4 mm x 111.3 mm)
Torque:
Approximately 101 ft-lbs (137 Nm) @ 3,500 RPM (This is a typical value for the Twin Cam 103 and should be confirmed in the manual for exact figures)
Fuel System:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum octane rating of 91
Service Intervals:
Initial 1,000-mile service, followed by 5,000-mile or annual service intervals. Specific intervals for oil changes, filter replacement, spark plugs, brake fluid, and belt inspection will be detailed in the manual.
Engine Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson recommends their Genuine V-Twin 20W-50 Synthetic Oil or equivalent meeting specification H-D 360.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson recommends Formula + (or equivalent meeting specification)
Primary Chain Case Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson recommends Formula + (or equivalent meeting specification)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.0 quarts (3.8 L) when changing oil and filter (verify in manual).
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approximately 1.0 quart (0.95 L) (verify in manual).
Primary Chain Case Oil Capacity:
Approximately 2.5 pints (1.2 L) (verify in manual).
Known Issues:
While the Twin Cam 103 is generally reliable, common areas for inspection and potential maintenance include primary chain tensioner wear, clutch adjustment, and regular checks of the belt drive for proper tension and condition.
Maintenance Schedule Details:
The manual provides a detailed periodic maintenance chart, outlining tasks such as checking tire pressure, inspecting brakes, lubricating cables and pivots, checking fluid levels, inspecting the drive belt, and more, tied to mileage and time intervals.
Brand Heritage:
Harley-Davidson has a long and rich history dating back to 1903, synonymous with American motorcycle culture, custom styling, and V-twin engine performance.
Model Evolution:
The Fat Boy line originated in the early 1990s, known for its distinctive "fat" tires, chrome accents, and rounded styling. The 'Lo' designation typically indicates a lower seat height and a more customized appearance. The Twin Cam engine was introduced in 1999 and has undergone various refinements.
Production Years:
The FLSTFB Fat Boy Lo was produced for several model years, with the 2013 model being part of the updated Softail lineup featuring the Twin Cam 103 engine.