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Harley-Davidson FXSTS Softail Springer motorcycle review - Riding
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Harley-Davidson FXSTS Softail Springer (1988-2003)



Detail Value
Used price range View Harley Davidson SOFTAIL bikes for sale to see current asking prices
Engine size 1340cc
Power 55bhp
Top speed 110mph
Insurance group 15
  MCN ratings Owners' ratings
Overall rating is 3 rating is 0
Engine rating is 2 rating is 0
Ride & Handling rating is 2 rating is 0
Equipment rating is 2 rating is 0
Quality & Reliability rating is 3 rating is 0
Value rating is 4 rating is 0

MCN overall verdict rating is 3

The Harley-Davidson Softail Springer is an ultra retro Harley based on the FXST Softail. Minimal but charming cruiser which harks back to the post war years when Harley-Davidson motorcycles were popular and their identity was really cemented. ‘Springer’ front Forks are based on the 1948 model but the rest of the Harley-Davidson Softail Springer is relatively modern – well as modern as air cooled Harleys ever were.

Engine

MCN rating rating is 2
Owners' rating rating is 0

Unlike the newer Softail Springer, the Springer Softail is an older model and is fitted with the older 1340cc engine. It’s got less power and torque and is even cruder than the later model. The gearbox is equally primitive. But in such a nostalgic package, it all somehow works even if it’s slower than a diesel Ford Focus.

Ride and Handling

MCN rating rating is 2
Owners' rating rating is 0

Those springer forks may look cool – but they’re old technology with precious little updating them. TheHarley-Davidson Softail Springer is a bouncy ride with just the rider and gets more so if you add a pillion. Ground clearance is limited like all Harleys and the Harley-Davidson Softail Springer's brakes are mediocre at best.

 

Equipment

MCN rating rating is 2
Owners' rating rating is 0

It’s that same Harley story here – the standard Harley-Davidson Softail Springer is a blank canvas for most people. There’s an enormous range of extras and alternative parts to personalize the bike and tailor it to your needs. Comfortable for some as standard but the Harley-Davidson Softail Springer's arse-low, feet forward riding position doesn’t suit everyone.

 

Quality and Reliability

MCN rating rating is 3
Owners' rating rating is 0

The Harley-Davidson Softail Springer is an older model and not quite as trouble free as the latest machines Harley have to offer. Electrical problems are not uncommon, corrosion can rear its ugly head, while gearbox and engine problems are less frequent but not unheard of with the Harley-Davidson Softail Springer.

Value

MCN rating rating is 4
Owners' rating rating is 0

Buy an older Harley-Davidson Softail Springer for a good price, keep it garaged, don’t use it in winter, don’t do a huge mileage and you could just hit that biking jackpot – the depreciation free motorcycle. If you buy from a dealer it’s unlikely though. And prices are high considering it’s an older, slower motorcycle. Find a Harley-Davidson Softail for sale.

 

Insurance

Insurance group: 15

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Model History

1988: Harley-Davidson Softail Springer launched.
1993: Gearbox and belt drive updated.
1995: Vacuum fuel tap and smooth exhaust added.
1997: Rear wheel hub now aluminium.
1998: Clutch gets nine plates for better operation and longevity.
2002: Immobiliser/alarm added and bullet shaped indicators.

Other Versions

None

Specifications

Top speed 110mph
1/4-mile acceleration 15.1 secs
Power 55bhp
Torque 53ftlb
Weight 285kg
Seat height 685mm
Fuel capacity 19 litres
Average fuel consumption 42mpg
Tank range 175 miles
Insurance group 15
Engine size 1340cc
Engine specification 4v V-twin, 5 gears
Frame Steel spine
Front suspension adjustment None
Rear suspension adjustment Preload
Front brakes 292mm disc
Rear brake 292mm disc
Front tyre size 80/90 x 19
Rear tyre size 130/90 x 16

Owners' Overall Rating rating is 0(0 reviews)

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