Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Competitors:
Other cruiser motorcycles of the era, such as Indian Chief, Victory cruisers, and some Japanese V-twins.
Design Philosophy:
Iconic styling, relaxed riding position, V-twin engine character, customization potential.
Engine:
Detailed disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting, diagnostics, tuning, specifications.
Transmission:
Clutch, gearbox, primary drive, final drive maintenance and repair.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Keihin CV) service, adjustment, troubleshooting, fuel tank, fuel lines.
Electrical System:
Ignition system, lighting, charging system, starter motor, wiring diagrams, component testing.
Suspension:
Front fork (Telescopic) overhaul, rear shock absorber service and adjustment.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, front and rear caliper service, master cylinder, brake lines, bleeding procedures.
Chassis And Frame:
Frame inspection, steering head bearing service, swingarm, wheel bearings.
Bodywork And Trim:
Fenders, fuel tank, seat assembly, handlebars, controls, and cosmetic components.
Maintenance:
Routine service, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, brake fluid replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Comprehensive diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault finding charts.
Repair And Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, and reassembly.
Adjustments:
Carburetor idle speed, clutch cable, throttle cable, primary chain tension, ignition timing adjustments.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specific Harley-Davidson service tools for various procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to in-depth engine and transmission rebuilds.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, Evolution engine
Displacement:
1449cc (88 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.437 in. x 3.750 in. (87.3 mm x 95.25 mm)
Valve Train:
Overhead valves (OHV), pushrod actuated, 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower Est:
~65 HP @ 5000 RPM (Estimated)
Torque Est:
~76 lb-ft @ 3200 RPM (Estimated)
Carburetor:
Keihin CV (Constant Velocity) 40 mm
Fuel Capacity:
4.0 gallons (15.1 L)
Crash Safety Rating:
N/A (Motorcycles typically not rated by government agencies like cars)
Braking System:
Dual-piston front caliper, single-piston rear caliper, hydraulic actuation.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, taillight, stop light, front and rear turn signals.
Audio System:
Factory fitted audio system was an option, typically AM/FM radio with cassette or CD player.
Display:
Analog speedometer and tachometer, odometer, trip meter, indicator lights.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an available option for some models.
Cruise Control:
Available as an accessory or option on some models.
First Service:
1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months
Subsequent Service:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson 20W50 motorcycle oil or equivalent (e.g., SYN3)
Transmission Oil:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ transmission lubricant or equivalent
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ transmission lubricant or equivalent
Brake Fluid:
DOT 5 Silicone (for models with ABS, DOT 4 for models without ABS - verify specific model)
Fork Oil:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Fork Oil or equivalent (viscosity specified in manual)
Engine Oil Capacity:
3.5 US quarts (3.3 L) with filter change
Transmission Oil Capacity:
1.0 US quart (0.9 L)
Primary Chain Case Oil Capacity:
2.2 US quarts (2.1 L)
Evolution Engine Vibration:
Characteristic vibration, but excessive vibration may indicate mounting issues or internal wear.
Carburetor Tuning:
Keihin CV carburetor can require periodic adjustments for optimal performance, especially at altitude or with modifications.
Primary Chain Tension:
Requires regular inspection and adjustment to prevent premature wear.
Rear Brake Fade:
Can occur with heavy use; ensuring proper fluid and pad maintenance is crucial.
Founding:
1903, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
Reputation:
Iconic American motorcycle manufacturer known for V-twin engines and custom culture.
Fat Boy Introduction:
Originally introduced in 1990, known for its distinctive solid disc wheels and chrome accents.
Evolution Engine:
The Evolution engine replaced the Shovelhead engine in 1984, becoming a cornerstone of Harley-Davidson's lineup.
Production Location:
United States (York, Pennsylvania and Kansas City, Missouri)
