Market Segment:
Cruiser motorcycle segment, known for its classic styling and comfortable ride.
Competitors:
Other Harley-Davidson Softail models, Indian Chief, various custom choppers and cruisers from independent builders.
Unique Selling Points:
The iconic Springer front fork, the Harley-Davidson V-twin engine, classic styling, and the renowned Softail ride.
Target Audience:
Riders who appreciate classic American motorcycle design, touring comfort, and the Harley-Davidson experience.
Engine:
Complete overhaul, diagnostics, ignition system, fuel system (carburetor), cooling system (air-cooled), exhaust system, lubrication system.
Transmission:
5-speed gearbox, clutch system, primary drive, secondary drive (belt drive).
Chassis And Suspension:
Frame, Springer front fork, rear shock absorbers, wheel bearings, swingarm, steering head bearings.
Brakes:
Front and rear hydraulic disc brakes, brake system bleeding, pad replacement, caliper service.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), ignition system, lighting (headlight, taillight, signals), starter motor, wiring diagrams, troubleshooting.
Fuel And Emission Systems:
Carburetor tuning and overhaul (likely Keihin CV), fuel tank, fuel lines, evaporative emission control (if applicable).
Bodywork And Trim:
Fenders, fuel tank, seat, handlebars, saddlebags (if equipped), fairings (if equipped), chrome accents.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication, spark plug service, brake fluid replacement, tire pressure checks.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, common problem identification, symptom-based troubleshooting for engine, electrical, and mechanical issues.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly.
Rebuilds:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, carburetor rebuilding.
Adjustments:
Carburetor idle and mixture adjustments, clutch adjustment, throttle cable adjustment, brake lever adjustment.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to detailed internal engine and transmission repairs, electrical diagnostics, and chassis overhauls.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications for identifying and rectifying malfunctions.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Evolution V-twin
Displacement:
1449cc (88 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.50 in x 4.47 in (88.9 mm x 113.5 mm)
Horsepower:
Approximately 65-70 HP (estimate, actual may vary by tune)
Torque:
Approximately 75-80 ft-lbs (estimate, actual may vary by tune)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (likely Keihin CV40)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 91 octane or higher recommended
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4 quarts (3.8 liters) with filter change
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine V-Twin Oil or equivalent API SG, SAE 20W50
Transmission Type:
5-speed manual
Primary Drive:
Enclosed primary drive chain
Secondary Drive:
Belt drive
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios detailed in the manual; typically close-ratio for performance.
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Transmission Lubricant or equivalent SAE 75W90 (GL-5) gear oil
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approximately 1 quart (0.95 liters)
Length:
Approximately 93.0 inches (2362 mm)
Width:
Approximately 37.0 inches (939.8 mm) at handlebars
Height:
Approximately 47.0 inches (1193.8 mm) to top of windshield (if equipped)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 66.5 inches (1689.1 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 665 lbs (301.6 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not typically specified by HD for this era, focus is on total weight capacity including rider and cargo.
Front Tire Size:
130/90-16
Rear Tire Size:
130/90-16
Wheelbase Type:
Cast aluminum or laced spokes, depending on specific model options.
Bolt Pattern:
Typically 5x101.6mm (5x4 inches) for Harley-Davidson wheels.
Safety Ratings:
Motorcycle safety is not rated by NHTSA in the same way as automobiles; relies on rider skill and adherence to maintenance.
Braking System:
Dual-action front brake, single-action rear brake with hydraulic actuation.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight and brake light, amber turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Steel tubular frame designed for stability and rider comfort.
Suspension Design:
Springer front fork provides a unique aesthetic and a relatively smooth ride; rear Softail suspension (hidden shocks) offers comfortable cushioning.
Infotainment System:
This model typically does not feature a factory-installed infotainment system; it is designed for a purer riding experience.
Audio Options:
Aftermarket audio systems or radio units are common modifications.
Driver Assistance Features:
None from the factory; relies on rider skill and awareness.
Connectivity Features:
No integrated connectivity features.
First Service:
Typically 1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months
Subsequent Services:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months thereafter, with specific component checks at higher mileages.
Engine Oil Spec:
Harley-Davidson Genuine V-Twin Oil or equivalent API SG, SAE 20W50
Transmission Oil Spec:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Transmission Lubricant or equivalent SAE 75W90 (GL-5) gear oil
Primary Chain Case Oil Spec:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Primary Chaincase Lubricant or equivalent SAE 85W140 (GL-5) gear oil
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid
Carburetor Tuning:
Keihin CV carburetors can require periodic adjustment for optimal performance and idle stability.
Belt Drive Tension:
Proper belt tension is crucial for longevity; requires periodic checks and adjustments.
Electrical Connections:
Older wiring can sometimes develop corrosion or loose connections, leading to intermittent electrical issues.
Clutch Cable:
Clutch cable adjustment or replacement may be needed over time due to wear.
Maintenance Schedule Detail
Oil Filter Part Number:
Harley-Davidson OEM 63731-98 (or equivalent aftermarket)
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect/clean every 5,000 miles, replace as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Harley-Davidson recommends replacement every 10,000 miles; check manual for specific part number (e.g., NGK DCPR7E).
Brand Heritage:
Harley-Davidson is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer with a legacy dating back to 1903, renowned for its V-twin engines and rider lifestyle.
Softail Lineage:
The Softail line, introduced in 1983, simulates the appearance of a hardtail frame with a hidden rear suspension system for improved comfort.
Springer Fork Heritage:
The Springer front fork is a revival of an early motorcycle suspension design, adding significant visual appeal and a distinct riding feel to models like the FXSTSI.
Production Era:
The FXSTSI Softail Springer was produced in the late 1990s and early 2000s, with 2000 being a key model year.