Vehicle Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Brand Heritage:
Part of Harley-Davidson's iconic Softail family, known for its classic styling and smooth ride thanks to its hidden rear suspension.
Key Competitors:
Models from Indian Motorcycle, Victory Motorcycles (discontinued but relevant for the era), and custom choppers from smaller manufacturers.
Styling:
Distinctive blacked-out styling, low-slung profile, and custom chopper-inspired lines.
Engine Type:
Harley-Davidson Twin Cam 96 V-twin engine, renowned for its torque and distinctive Harley sound.
Suspension Design:
Softail frame with hidden rear shock absorbers, providing a rigid frame appearance with modern suspension comfort.
Engine And Drivetrain:
Detailed coverage of the Twin Cam 96 engine, including disassembly, inspection, reassembly, and troubleshooting of all internal components, fuel injection system, ignition system, and exhaust system.
Chassis And Suspension:
Comprehensive information on the Softail frame, front fork assembly (including telescopic forks and steering head bearings), rear suspension (shock absorbers, swingarm, and pivot bearings), and wheel/tire service.
Braking System:
In-depth coverage of front and rear brake systems, including hydraulic components, brake calipers, master cylinders, brake lines, brake discs, and troubleshooting of braking performance issues.
Electrical System:
Extensive details on the motorcycle's electrical system, including wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), starter system, lighting, ignition system, instrument cluster, and accessory circuits.
Fuel System:
Detailed information on the Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) system, fuel pump, fuel filter, injectors, throttle body, and diagnostics for fuel delivery issues.
Bodywork And Fittings:
Procedures for the removal, installation, and repair of body panels, fenders, fuel tank, seat, handlebars, controls, and other cosmetic and functional components.
Clutch And Transmission:
Complete service procedures for the primary drive system, clutch assembly, transmission (including gear shifting mechanisms), and final drive (belt drive).
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain/belt adjustment, brake fluid flushes, spark plug replacement, and general inspection procedures.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic steps and flowcharts for identifying and resolving common issues across all vehicle systems.
Component Rebuilds:
Detailed instructions for the overhaul and rebuilding of major components such as the engine, transmission, and brake system.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Guidance on using diagnostic tools, interpreting fault codes, and troubleshooting electrical circuit issues.
Suspension Adjustment:
Instructions for adjusting or servicing front and rear suspension components.
Wheel And Tire Service:
Procedures for wheel removal, balancing, tire mounting/dismounting, and bearing maintenance.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed torque specifications and special tool requirements.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Provides extensive diagnostic procedures for fuel injection, ignition, and electrical systems, often referencing specific Harley-Davidson diagnostic tools.
Engine Family:
Twin Cam 96
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, V-twin
Displacement:
1584 cc (96 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.75 in. x 4.38 in. (95.25 mm x 111.25 mm)
Torque:
Approximately 92.6 ft-lbs @ 3,500 RPM (as per typical 2007 Twin Cam 96 specs, exact manual value may vary slightly)
Horsepower:
Typically around 65-70 HP at the crankshaft (exact figure not usually specified in service manuals, but engine performance is covered).
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (recommended)
Ignition Type:
High-performance, variable timing electronic ignition
Transmission Type:
6-speed, Cruise Drive, manual
Primary Drive:
Plated, wet, multi-disc clutch, chain drive to transmission
Final Drive:
Belt Drive, 2.75:1 ratio
Clutch Operation:
Hydraulic clutch actuation
Transmission Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission & Primary Chaincase Lubricant, or equivalent SAE 50 motorcycle gear oil.
Length:
Approximately 94.9 inches (2410 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 64.4 inches (1635 mm)
Seat Height Laden:
Approximately 26.0 inches (660 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 680 lbs (308 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not typically specified in service manuals, but road weight is around 700+ lbs.
Fuel Capacity:
5.0 gallons (18.9 L)
Crash Test Ratings:
Motorcycles are generally not subject to standardized crash test ratings like automobiles. Safety is primarily addressed through design and rider skill.
Braking:
Dual disc front brake, single disc rear brake. ABS was an optional feature on some Harley-Davidson models in this era, but less common on the FXSTB Night Train as standard.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED tail lamp, and standard front and rear turn signals.
Ergonomics:
Low seat height and swept-back handlebars contribute to rider control and comfort.
Instrument Cluster:
Analog speedometer and tachometer, with an LCD display for odometer, trip meter, fuel level, and gear indication. The manual details how to access and interpret these.
Cruise Control:
Cruise control was not a standard feature on the FXSTB Night Train in 2007, but aftermarket options exist and the manual may cover some related wiring if applicable.
Diagnostic Ports:
The manual will detail the location and use of the diagnostic port, essential for reading fault codes using Harley-Davidson's proprietary diagnostic tools (e.g., Digital Technician).
ECM Functionality:
Coverage of the Electronic Control Module (ECM) and its role in managing fuel injection, ignition timing, and other engine parameters.
First Service:
Typically at 1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Subsequent Service:
Recommended every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, for most routine checks and fluid changes.
Engine Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson 20W-50 Full Synthetic or SYN3 (Synthetic) Motorcycle Oil.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.0 US quarts (3.8 L) with filter change.
Primary Chaincase Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission & Primary Chaincase Lubricant or equivalent SAE 50 motorcycle gear oil.
Primary Chaincase Oil Capacity:
Approximately 2.8 US quarts (2.6 L).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 brake fluid.
Electrical Connectors:
Some Harley-Davidson models of this era can experience issues with corroded or loose electrical connectors, particularly in humid environments. The manual will guide diagnostics.
Cam Chain Tensioner:
Early Twin Cam engines (prior to 2007 with hydraulic tensioners) had less robust cam chain tensioners that could wear. The 2007 models are generally considered to have addressed this with improved components, but the manual covers inspection and potential upgrades.
Fuel Injector Cleaning:
Regular maintenance may include injector cleaning or servicing to ensure optimal performance, especially if the bike is used infrequently or with lower quality fuel.
Harley Davidson Legacy:
Founded in 1903, Harley-Davidson is America's oldest motorcycle manufacturer, known for its distinctive V-twin engines and custom cruiser heritage.
Softail Introduction:
The Softail platform was introduced in 1984, designed by Bill Davis, featuring a hidden rear suspension to mimic the look of a hardtail frame while providing modern ride comfort.
Night Train Introduction:
The FXSTB Softail Night Train was introduced to offer a more aggressive, blacked-out styling option within the Softail lineup, becoming a popular model for customization.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (primarily York, Pennsylvania and Kansas City, Missouri)