Positioning:
Iconic cruiser motorcycle, known for its classic styling and V-twin engine, appealing to riders seeking a traditional Harley-Davidson experience.
Competitors:
Other cruisers of the era, including models from Japanese manufacturers (e.g., Honda Shadow, Yamaha Virago) and American V-twin competitors.
Styling:
Minimalist design, low seat height, teardrop fuel tank, chrome accents, blacked-out engine components (on some variants).
Engine:
Harley-Davidson Twin Cam 88B V-twin engine, renowned for its torque and distinctive sound.
Ride Quality:
Softail rear suspension design providing a hardtail appearance with hidden shock absorbers for improved ride comfort.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, disassembly, assembly, timing, lubrication, cooling system
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Keihin CV), fuel pump, fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel filter
Ignition System:
Ignition module, ignition coil, spark plugs, wiring
Transmission:
Clutch, primary drive, transmission case, gears, shift mechanism, final drive
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator/stator, regulator/rectifier), starting system (starter motor), lighting (headlight, taillight, turn signals), instrumentation, horn, wiring diagrams
Chassis Frame:
Frame inspection, welding, steering head, swingarm, pivot bearings
Suspension Front:
Front fork assembly, seals, oil, springs, steering bearings
Suspension Rear:
Rear shock absorbers, swingarm, pivot points
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, calipers, master cylinders, brake lines, brake pads, brake fluid
Wheels Tires:
Wheel bearings, tire pressure, tire replacement, wheel balancing
Bodywork:
Fenders, fuel tank, seat, handlebars, control levers, mirrors, footpegs
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting procedures for common and uncommon issues
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, tune-ups
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed procedures for component removal and installation
Specifications Torques:
Torque specifications for all fasteners and critical components
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for all model variations
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and electrical diagnostics)
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Twin Cam 88B, 45-degree V-twin
Displacement:
1450 cc (88 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.75 in x 4.00 in (95.25 mm x 101.6 mm)
Valve Train:
Overhead valves (OHV), two valves per cylinder, pushrod actuated
Horsepower:
Approx. 65-70 HP (est. at rear wheel, subject to variation)
Torque:
Approx. 80-86 ft-lbs @ 3200 RPM (est.)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor: Keihin CV (Constant Velocity) 40mm
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson 20W-50 Motorcycle Oil (or equivalent API CG-4 or higher)
Oil Capacity:
3.7 US quarts (3.5 liters) with filter change
Type:
5-speed constant mesh, helical gears
Gear Ratios:
1st: 9.315, 2nd: 6.411, 3rd: 4.773, 4th: 3.926, 5th: 3.161
Clutch:
Wet, multi-plate, diaphragm spring
Primary Drive:
Duplex chain, 1.400:1 ratio
Final Drive:
Belt drive, 32/66 ratio (0.4848:1)
Transmission Fluid:
Harley-Davidson Syn 3 or equivalent SAE 80W-90 GL-5 Gear Oil (in primary case)
Primary Fluid Capacity:
2.5 US quarts (2.4 liters)
Length:
Approx. 93.0 in (2362 mm)
Width:
Approx. 34.5 in (876 mm)
Height:
Approx. 49.0 in (1245 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 64.2 in (1630 mm)
Seat Height:
Approx. 25.5 in (648 mm) (unladen)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 4.7 in (119 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 632 lbs (287 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 1015 lbs (460 kg)
Fuel Capacity:
5.0 US gallons (18.9 liters)
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety is not typically rated by standardized bodies like NHTSA for cars; emphasis on rider skill and protective gear).
Brakes:
Hydraulic disc brakes front and rear
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, taillight, brake light, front and rear turn signals
Chassis Stability:
Solid frame construction contributing to rider confidence.
Tire Grip:
Importance of proper tire maintenance and pressure for optimal grip.
Infotainment System:
Basic, typically no advanced infotainment systems. Focus is on the riding experience.
Assistance Features:
None typical for this era of cruiser; focus is on mechanical and rider controls.
Connectivity Features:
No integrated connectivity features such as Bluetooth or smartphone integration.
Instrument Panel:
Analog speedometer, tachometer (on some models), odometer, trip meter, fuel gauge, indicator lights for oil pressure, neutral, turn signals, and high beam.
First Service:
1000 miles (1600 km) or 6 months (whichever comes first)
Subsequent Service:
Every 5000 miles (8000 km) or 12 months
Engine Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson 20W-50 Motorcycle Oil (or equivalent API CG-4 or higher)
Primary Chain Case Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson Syn 3 or equivalent SAE 80W-90 GL-5 Gear Oil
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid
Fork Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Type E (or equivalent SAE 10W) fork oil
Cam Chain Tensioner:
Early Twin Cam engines (pre-2007) used plastic cam chain tensioners that could wear prematurely, potentially leading to noise or failure. Later models (including 2007 onwards) utilize hydraulic tensioners.
Regulator Rectifier:
Some units could be prone to failure, impacting the charging system. Troubleshooting and replacement are common.
Carburetor Tuning:
Keihin CV carburetor may require periodic adjustment or cleaning for optimal performance and idle quality.
Belt Drive Tension:
Proper belt tension is critical for longevity; incorrect tension can lead to premature wear of the belt and pulley bearings.
Heritage:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer with a rich history and a strong legacy in motorcycle culture.
Evolution Softail:
The Softail platform, introduced in 1983, is known for its distinctive styling that mimics a hardtail frame while incorporating hidden rear suspension for improved comfort. The FXST Softail Standard represents a core offering within this line.
Evolution Twin Cam:
The Twin Cam 88 engine, introduced in 1999, marked a significant evolution from the Evolution (Evo) engine, offering increased displacement, improved torque, and a more robust design.
Manufacturing Location:
York, Pennsylvania, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
Market Segment:
Cruiser motorcycle segment
