Of course, here is a full article about the 2007–2008 Harley-Davidson Softail CVO Twin Cam 110, written in the requested style.
The 2007–2008 Harley-Davidson Softail CVO Twin Cam 110, factory designated as the FXSTSSE for the 2007 model and FXSTSSE2 for the 2008 model, is a limited-edition factory custom motorcycle produced by Harley-Davidson’s Custom Vehicle Operations (CVO) division. Representing the pinnacle of the Softail family for its time, this model combined the classic aesthetics of a Springer front end with the largest displacement engine then offered by the company, the Screamin’ Eagle Twin Cam 110. The FXSTSSE was built to be a statement piece, blending nostalgic design cues with modern performance and an abundance of custom-level finishes applied directly at the factory.
Development and Design
The CVO program at Harley-Davidson focuses on taking a standard production model and elevating it with exclusive paint schemes, extensive chrome plating, high-performance engine upgrades, and accessories from the Screamin’ Eagle parts catalog. The base for the FXSTSSE was the Softail Springer platform, renowned for its frame design that mimics the clean lines of a vintage “hardtail” while concealing modern rear shock absorbers for a more comfortable ride.
The defining visual characteristic of the motorcycle is its Springer front suspension. This design, which utilizes external springs to absorb road imperfections, is a direct link to Harley-Davidson’s early history and provides a distinct, mechanical aesthetic that contrasts with the more common hydraulic telescopic forks. For the CVO model, the Springer front end was color-matched to the frame and featured chrome-plated springs and components.
A key design element was the motorcycle’s muscular stance, largely achieved by incorporating a wide, 240mm rear tire mounted on an 18-inch Revolver chrome forged aluminum wheel. The front featured a complementing 21-inch Revolver wheel. This combination, paired with a low-slung, custom solo seat and a wide, chrome drag-style handlebar, gave the bike a powerful and aggressive presence.
The Heart of the Beast: 2007–2008 Harley-Davidson Softail CVO Twin Cam 110 Powertrain
The centerpiece of the FXSTSSE is its powertrain. Unlike the standard Softail models of the era, which came equipped with the Twin Cam 96B engine (96 cubic inches), the CVO Springer was fitted with the Screamin’ Eagle Twin Cam 110B engine. At 110 cubic inches (1802 cc), this air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin was the largest engine Harley-Davidson had ever offered in a production motorcycle up to that point.
The “B” designation signifies that the engine is counter-balanced. This was a crucial engineering element for the Softail frame, where the engine is rigidly mounted. The dual counter-balancers quell much of the engine’s primary vibration, allowing for a smoother ride without sacrificing the characteristic feel of a Harley-Davidson V-twin. The engine was paired with a 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission, providing relaxed RPMs at highway speeds. Fueling was managed by an Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) system, delivering reliable performance and crisp throttle response. This powertrain produced a significant increase in torque over its standard counterparts, delivering a claimed 110 ft-lbs of torque for strong acceleration.
Model Year Differences and Distinguishing Features
While both the 2007 and 2008 models share the same core platform, the CVO program traditionally uses unique paint and minor trim updates to differentiate model years.
2007 FXSTSSE CVO Springer Softail:
Paint Schemes: Offered in three two-tone color combinations with ghost flame graphics: Canyon Copper and Candy Red, Abyss Blue and Blue Pearl, and a striking Black and Inferno Orange.
Features: The bike was loaded with chrome components, including the oil tank, switch housings, levers, and engine covers. It featured a color-matched frame, swingarm, and front spoiler.
2008 FXSTSSE2 CVO Springer Softail:
Paint Schemes: The second-year model featured two new exclusive color combinations with a slightly different graphic style: Sterling Silver and Black with Ghost Flames, and Inferno Orange and Black with Ghost Flames.
* Updates:** The 2008 model received a newly designed, lower-profile solo seat. Other subtle changes included granite powdercoat-finished engine heads and a new CVO emblem on the fuel tank console.
Both models shared premium features such as a custom leather seat with a detachable passenger pillion, forward foot controls, braided stainless steel control cables and brake lines, and a high-performance clutch with hydraulic actuation.
Specifications Table
| General | |
| Brand | Harley-Davidson |
| Model | Softail CVO Springer |
| Model Class | FXSTSSE / FXSTSSE2 |
| Model Year | 2007–2008 |
| Type | Cruiser |
| Maximum mass (GVWR) | 1160 lb. (526 kg) |
| Maximum passengers | 2 |
| Performance | |
| Max. power | Approx. 90-95 hp (estimated) |
| Max. torque | 110 ft-lb (149 N•m) / 3000 RPM |
| Min. turn diameter | N/A |
| Top designed speed | Approx. 120 mph (193 km/h) |
| Size | |
| Length | 94.5 in. (2400 mm) |
| Width | 37.6 in. (955 mm) |
| Height | 45.4 in. (1153 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 66.9 in. (1699 mm) |
| Seat height (laden) | 27.4 in. (696 mm) |
| Ground clearance | 5.6 in. (142 mm) |
| Dry weight | 712 lb. (323 kg) |
| Engine | |
| Type | Air-cooled, 45° V-Twin, Twin Cam 110B, Four Stroke |
| Displacement | 110 cu in (1802 cc) |
| Bore × Stroke | 4.0 in. × 4.375 in. (101.6 mm × 111.1 mm) |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 |
| Starting system | Electric starter |
| Fuel supplying system | Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) |
| Ignition control system | ECU Ignition |
| Lubricating system | Dry sump, pressurized |
| Oil capacity | 3.5 qt (3.3 L) |
| Engine oil type | SAE 20W50 Harley-Davidson H-D 360 Motorcycle Oil |
| Coolant capacity | N/A (Air-cooled) |
| Coolant type | N/A (Air-cooled) |
| Idle speed | 1000 RPM ± 50 RPM |
| Transmission | |
| Transmission type | 6-speed Cruise Drive, manual gear shift |
| Clutch type | Wet, multi-disc, hydraulic actuation |
| Driving system | Belt drive |
| Primary reduction ratio | 1.353 (34/46) |
| Final reduction ratio | 2.125 (32/68) |
| Gear ratio | 1st: 3.337; 2nd: 2.313; 3rd: 1.711; 4th: 1.391; 5th: 1.185; 6th: 1.000 |
| Chassis | |
| Tire size | Front: MH90-21 54H; Rear: 240/40R18 79V |
| Rim size | Front: 21 in.; Rear: 18 in. (Revolver Forged Aluminum) |
| Capacity of fuel tank | 5.0 gal (18.9 L) |
| Fuel consumption | Approx. 34 city / 42 highway MPG |
| Electric | |
| Battery | 12V / 19 Ah |
| Headlight | Halogen 55W/60W |
| Position Light | N/A |
| Turning light | Incandescent bulb |
| Tail light | LED |
| Front fog light | N/A |
| Suspension | |
| Front | Springer fork with chrome external springs |
| Front travel | 3.8 in (96.5 mm) |
| Rear | Hidden horizontal-mounted coil-over shocks |
| Rear travel | 4.3 in (109 mm) |
| Rear spring preload | Adjustable |
