Model Segment:
Cruiser motorcycle
Target Audience:
Riders seeking a stylish, powerful, and customizable cruiser with a classic Harley-Davidson aesthetic.
Key Competitors 2004:
Similar models from Indian Motorcycle, Victory Motorcycles, and potentially some Japanese cruisers with a similar aesthetic and performance profile.
Styling:
Blacked-out components, low-slung profile, drag handlebars, teardrop fuel tank, and custom-style wheels contribute to its 'Night Train' aggressive aesthetic.
Engine Type:
Harley-Davidson Twin Cam 88B engine, a counter-balanced V-twin known for its torque and character.
Suspension:
Comfortable ride with a focus on cruiser ergonomics, featuring a telescopic front fork and adjustable rear shock absorbers.
Primary Coverage:
Mechanical and electrical systems, maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting for the 2004 Harley-Davidson FXSTB Night Train.
Page Count:
Estimated 400-600 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Engine:
Detailed disassembly, assembly, diagnosis, and repair of the Twin Cam 88B engine, including lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, and exhaust systems.
Transmission:
Service and repair of the 5-speed constant mesh transmission, including clutch, primary drive, and final drive.
Electrical:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, troubleshooting guides, and repair procedures for all electrical components, including lighting, starting, charging, ignition, and instrumentation.
Chassis:
Service and repair of frame, suspension (front forks, rear shocks), brakes (hydraulic disc front and rear), wheels, and tires.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (CV type) disassembly, cleaning, adjustment, and troubleshooting; fuel tank, fuel lines, and fuel filter service.
Bodywork:
Body panel removal and installation, fairings, fenders, seat, and related trim.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, brake fluid flush, drive belt inspection and adjustment.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, including no-start conditions, performance problems, and electrical gremlins.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, overhaul, replacement, and reassembly.
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic charts, trouble codes (where applicable), and specific testing procedures for various systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Engine Family:
Harley-Davidson Twin Cam 88B
Configuration:
45-degree V-twin, air-cooled
Displacement:
1450 cc (88 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.75 in x 4.00 in (95.25 mm x 101.6 mm)
Compression Ratio:
8.8:1 (typical)
Horsepower Approx:
Approx. 60-70 HP (estimation based on engine type and era)
Torque Approx:
Approx. 70-80 ft-lbs @ 3500 RPM (estimation based on engine type and era)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (Keihin CV 40 mm)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Motorcycle Oil (or equivalent SAE 20W-50 motorcycle oil)
Oil Capacity W Filter:
Approx. 4.0 US quarts (3.8 liters)
Transmission Type:
5-speed constant mesh
Primary Drive:
Duplex chain, compensator sprocket, wet multi-plate clutch
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic, wet multi-plate
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Transmission Oil (or SAE 80W-90 API GL-5 gear oil)
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1.0 US quart (0.95 liters)
Overall Length:
Approx. 92.9 inches (2360 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 64.2 inches (1631 mm)
Seat Height Laden:
Approx. 26.4 inches (670 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 4.9 inches (124 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 600 lbs (272 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Not typically specified by manufacturer, but implied by chassis load capacity.
Fuel Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 US gallons (15.1 liters)
Crash Test Ratings:
Motorcycles are not subject to the same standardized crash test ratings as automobiles.
Brakes:
Hydraulic disc brakes front and rear for reliable stopping power. Dual-piston calipers typical.
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, brake lights, and turn signals for visibility.
Frame Construction:
Robust steel frame designed for stability and handling.
Handlebars:
Designed for comfortable control and rider positioning.
Infotainment System:
Typically none on this model; focus is on mechanical and rider experience. Aftermarket audio systems are common.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was not a standard or common option for this model in 2004.
Bluetooth:
Not equipped from the factory. Aftermarket solutions available.
Dashboard:
Analog speedometer, tachometer (optional), fuel gauge (in dash), and indicator lights.
First Service:
1000 miles (1600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Subsequent Service:
Every 5000 miles (8000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 2500-3000 miles (4000-4800 km) or 6 months for optimal lubrication, though factory manual may suggest longer intervals.
Transmission Oil Change:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 24 months.
Primary Chain Tensioner Inspection:
Inspect and adjust at 1000 miles, then every 5000 miles or as needed based on noise.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 20W-50 (Harley-Davidson recommends their specific blend)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (check manual for specific approval, generally recommended for Harley-Davidson hydraulics)
Fork Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Suspension Fork Oil (viscosity varies, typically SAE 10W or 15W)
Primary Chain Tensioner:
The original spring-loaded tensioner can wear out, leading to noise and potential damage. Later models and aftermarket upgrades use hydraulic tensioners.
Carburetor Tuning:
CV carburetor may require periodic adjustment or cleaning for optimal performance, especially with modifications.
Rear Brake Wear:
Rear brake pads and rotors can wear faster due to the bike's weight and braking characteristics.
Cam Chain Tensioners:
Early Twin Cam models (prior to 2007) used plastic cam chain tensioner shoes that could wear prematurely, leading to potential engine damage. This is a common upgrade area.
Brand Origin:
Founded in 1903 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA, Harley-Davidson is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer.
Brand Philosophy:
Known for its distinctive styling, V-twin engines, and a strong emphasis on rider lifestyle and community.
Fxst Series:
The FXST Softail series has a long history, evolving from earlier Harley-Davidson designs to incorporate modern engineering while retaining classic styling cues.
Night Train Introduction:
The Night Train model was introduced to offer a more aggressive, custom-look variant within the Softail lineup, often featuring blacked-out components and a lower profile.
Twin Cam 88B:
The Twin Cam 88B engine, introduced in 1999, replaced the Evolution engine and offered improved performance and reduced vibration with its internal counterbalancers.
Production Period:
The FXSTB Night Train was produced from the 2000 model year through the 2009 model year.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA, and/or York, Pennsylvania, USA.
