2008 HARLEY-DAVIDSON FLSTN SOFTAIL DELUXE

$5,788
FEATURED OPTIONS
VEHICLE INFORMATION
OVERVIEW

Key Specifications & Performance

  • Engine: Air-cooled Twin Cam 96B V-twin, 1,584 cc (≈ 96 ci).

  • Bore × Stroke: ~95.3 mm × 111.3 mm.

  • Compression Ratio: 9.2 : 1.

  • Fuel System: Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI).

  • Transmission: 6-speed “Cruise Drive” manual.

  • Primary / Final Drive: Chain primary drive; belt final drive.

  • Torque: ~89 ft-lb (120 Nm) @ ~3,300 rpm.

  • Fuel Economy: ~35 mpg city / 54 mpg highway (per the manufacturer / spec sources).


Chassis, Suspension & Brakes

  • Frame: Steel tubular frame, Softail-style (hidden rear shock) for that “old school” rigid look.

  • Front Suspension: 41.3 mm telescopic fork.

  • Rear Suspension: Hidden coil-over shock, giving a clean look but still providing comfort.

  • Brakes:

    • Front: Single 292 mm disc, 4-piston caliper.

    • Rear: Single 292 mm disc, 2-piston caliper.

  • Tires:

    • Front: Dunlop MT90-16 72H

    • Rear: Dunlop MU85B16 77H


Dimensions & Weight

  • Length: ~94.7 in (2,405 mm).

  • Wheelbase: ~64.5 in (1,638 mm).

  • Seat Height:

    • Laden: 24.5 in (622 mm) — very low, which is great for accessibility.

    • Unladen: ~25.9 in (658 mm).

  • Ground Clearance: ~4.8 in (122 mm).

  • Fuel Capacity: 5.0 gallons (18.9 L).

  • Weight:

    • Dry: ~695 lb (315 kg).

    • Running / Wet: ~724 lb (328 kg).


Design & Style

  • Retro / Classic Look: The Deluxe is very nostalgic — wide whitewall tires, full-skirt fenders, laced wheels, and lots of chrome.

  • Seat & Ergonomics: Two-piece, two-up seat with detachable passenger pillion.

  • Handlebar: Low-rise, pull-back handlebars give a relaxed, cruiser posture.

  • Lighting: Distinctive headlight nacelle up front, and a “tombstone” tail light on the rear fender.

  • Comfort Features: Full-length floorboards for rider, heel/toe shifter; integrated luggage rack for added utility.

  • Exhaust: Chrome over-under shotgun exhaust with dual mufflers.


Ride Experience & Practical Use

  • Cruising Comfort: With a low seat height and forward footboards, this bike is very comfortable for cruising and relaxed rides.

  • Power Delivery: The 96B V-twin gives a smooth and torque-rich mid-range — ideal for highway and city use.

  • Handling: The Softail frame with hidden shock gives a more classic, rigid look, but the suspension is still usable for real-world rides.

  • Fuel Range: With a 5-gal tank and decent fuel economy, it’s suitable for moderate-distance rides without constant refueling.

  • Versatility: While not designed for high-speed racing, the Deluxe is great for cruising, weekend rides, or even two-up trips (with its passenger seat).


Strengths

Strengths:

  • Very stylish and iconic — classic Harley styling that stands out.

  • Accessible ride height — the low seat is good for a wide range of rider sizes.

  • Good balance of power and comfort — big enough engine for solid performance, but still relaxed.

  • Well-built — strong frame, good quality components, and classic “Softail feel.”

  • Customization potential — many owners personalize Softail Deluxes with custom racks, seats, exhaust, etc.