Market Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson FLSTF Fat Boy owners and independent repair shops.
Key Competitors:
Other large-displacement V-twin cruisers from brands like Indian Motorcycles, Victory Motorcycles (discontinued).
Design Philosophy:
Iconic cruiser styling, comfortable riding position, torquey V-twin engine.
Distinctive Elements:
Wide front tire, teardrop fuel tank, chrome accents, whitewall tires (often optional/dealer installed).
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, lubrication system, cooling system (air-cooled specific), ignition system, fuel system, exhaust system.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Primary drive, transmission case, gears, clutch, final drive (belt drive).
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, starting system, charging system, battery, ignition system, fuel injection system (if applicable), instrument cluster, switches, relays, fuses.
Suspension Steering:
Front fork (telescopic), rear shock absorbers, swingarm, steering head bearings.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, hydraulic lines, calipers, master cylinders, brake pads, brake fluid specifications.
Wheels Tires:
Wheel specifications, tire sizes, inflation pressures, bearing maintenance.
Bodywork Frame:
Frame construction, fenders, fuel tank, seat, handlebars, controls, body panel removal and installation.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, lubrication points, fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, belt tension adjustment.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical fault finding.
Repair Overhaul:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake system repairs, suspension component replacement.
Component Replacement:
Guidance on replacing various parts, including clutch plates, wheel bearings, brake lines, and electrical components.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures.
Engine Family:
Harley-Davidson Evolution (Evo) V-twin
Engine Displacement:
1337.8 cc (81.8 cubic inches)
Engine Configuration:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin
Bore X Stroke:
3.4375 in x 4.25 in (87.3 mm x 108 mm)
Valve Train:
OHV (Overhead Valve), 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower Rating:
Approx. 60-65 HP (estimated, factory figures are often torque-focused)
Torque Rating:
Approx. 70-75 ft-lbs @ 3000 RPM (estimated)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (Keihin CV 40 mm)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane recommended
Fuel Capacity:
4.0 US gallons (15.1 liters)
Oil Type Specification:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 or equivalent SAE 20W-50 motorcycle oil (check manual for specific Harley-Davidson recommendations)
Oil Capacity With Filter:
3.5 US quarts (3.3 liters)
Transmission Type:
5-speed constant mesh
Primary Drive:
Duplex chain
Final Drive:
Belt drive, 140T rear belt sprocket, 32T front pulley
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula + or equivalent SAE 50 transmission lubricant
Transmission Oil Capacity:
2.5 US quarts (2.4 liters)
Safety Ratings:
Motorcycle safety is typically measured by rider aids and braking performance, not crash test ratings like automobiles.
Braking System:
Dual-piston front and rear hydraulic disc brakes.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, taillight, brake light, turn signals.
Chassis Design:
Steel frame for structural integrity.
Initial Service:
First service typically recommended at 1,000 miles (1,600 km).
Subsequent Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Primary Chain Tensioner Check:
Inspect at 1,000 miles, then every 10,000 miles (16,000 km).
Belt Tension Adjustment:
Check and adjust as needed, typically during scheduled maintenance or if noise is present.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (Harley-Davidson recommends their own branded fluid)
Fork Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson's recommended fork oil (e.g., 15W) or equivalent.
Primary Chain Tensioner Wear:
Early models (pre-2007) are known for automatic tensioner wear, leading to noise and potential issues. Manual checks are crucial. Upgrade kits are available.
Carburetor Tuning:
Keihin CV carburetor can sometimes require fine-tuning for optimal performance and idle quality.
Cam Chain Tensioners:
Related to the primary chain tensioner, wear can cause noise. Inspections are recommended.
Brand Origin:
Founded in 1903 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA. Pioneer of the V-twin engine in motorcycles.
Model Introduction:
The Fat Boy was introduced in 1990 and quickly became an iconic model for Harley-Davidson, known for its distinctive styling.
2000 Model Year Updates:
Minor refinements, potential color options. The core design remained consistent with the early Evo Fat Boys.
Manufacturing Location:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA (primary)
Sales Significance:
One of Harley-Davidson's best-selling and most recognizable models, contributing significantly to brand image and sales.
