Of course. Here is a full article about the 2007–2011 Harley-Davidson Softail Twin Cam 96B (FLSTN Deluxe), written in the requested style and format.
The 2007–2011 Harley-Davidson Softail Twin Cam 96B (FLSTN Deluxe) represents a significant era for one of the company’s most nostalgically styled cruisers. This period marked a major mechanical evolution for the entire Softail family, moving away from the preceding Twin Cam 88B engine and 5-speed transmission. The FLSTN Softail Deluxe, with its distinctive retro design cues, benefited directly from these powertrain upgrades, combining classic mid-20th-century aesthetics with enhanced performance and highway capability. It remained a cornerstone of Harley-Davidson’s cruiser lineup, appealing to riders seeking a blend of vintage looks and modern reliability.
Engine and Drivetrain Evolution
The most substantial changes introduced in the 2007 model year for the Softail lineup, including the Deluxe, were centered on the engine and transmission. These upgrades provided a noticeable improvement in performance and rideability over the previous generation (2000–2006 models).
The Twin Cam 96B Engine in the 2007–2011 Harley-Davidson Softail Twin Cam 96B (FLSTN Deluxe)
At the heart of this generation was the new Twin Cam 96B engine. The “96” denotes its displacement of 96 cubic inches (1584cc), a significant increase from the 88 cubic inches (1450cc) of its predecessor. This was achieved by increasing the piston stroke from 4.00 inches to 4.38 inches while retaining the same 3.75-inch bore. The result was a considerable boost in torque, particularly in the low-to-mid RPM range, providing stronger acceleration and passing power.
The “B” in Twin Cam 96B signifies that the engine is counter-balanced. Unlike Harley-Davidson’s touring and Dyna models of the era, which used rubber mounting to isolate engine vibration from the frame, Softail models feature a rigidly mounted engine. To mitigate the intense vibration of the V-Twin engine, dual counter-rotating balancers are used internally, making for a smoother ride without sacrificing the characteristic Harley-Davidson feel.
Another key update was the standardization of Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) across the lineup, replacing the carburetor that was standard on many previous models. This provided improved cold starting, better fuel economy, and more consistent performance across various altitudes and temperatures.
6-Speed Cruise Drive Transmission
Paired with the new engine was the 6-Speed Cruise Drive transmission. This was a major upgrade from the previous 5-speed gearbox. The additional sixth gear acted as a true overdrive, lowering engine RPM at highway speeds. This change resulted in a more relaxed cruising experience, reduced vibration, and improved fuel efficiency during long-distance travel. The new transmission was easily identified by a “6-Speed” emblem on the transmission case.
Chassis and Styling
While the powertrain was thoroughly updated, the core aesthetic of the FLSTN Softail Deluxe remained faithful to its heritage-inspired design. The model is built on the iconic Softail frame, which cleverly hides its dual rear shock absorbers horizontally beneath the transmission, creating the clean, uninterrupted lines of a vintage “hardtail” frame.
The Deluxe’s specific styling cues set it apart within the Softail family and are a primary reason for its appeal. Key features of the 2007–2011 models include:
Full, Valanced Fenders: Both the front and rear fenders are wide and deeply skirted, a classic design element from the 1940s and 50s.
Whitewall Tires: Wide whitewall tires mounted on chrome-laced (spoke) wheels are a defining feature.
“Tombstone” Taillight: The distinctive, tombstone-shaped taillight housing on the rear fender is a hallmark of the model.
Integrated Luggage Rack: A chrome luggage rack is integrated over the rear fender, adding to the bike’s classic touring profile.
Low-Slung Seat: The Deluxe typically featured a low, solo seat, though an optional passenger pillion was commonly added.
Nostalgic Lighting: A large, chrome headlight nacelle is flanked by two passing lamps, providing a commanding presence and excellent visibility.
Pull-Back Handlebars: The handlebars are designed to provide a comfortable, relaxed riding position.
Key Differences from the Pre-2007 Model
To summarize, the 2007–2011 FLSTN Softail Deluxe is distinguished from its immediate predecessor (2005–2006 models) primarily by its mechanical upgrades.
Engine Displacement: Increased from 88 cubic inches (1450cc) to 96 cubic inches (1584cc), delivering more torque.
Transmission: Upgraded from a 5-speed to the 6-Speed Cruise Drive, improving highway performance.
Fuel System: Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) became standard equipment, whereas the previous generation offered a carburetor as standard.
Styling:** The fundamental styling, frame, and classic aesthetic elements remained largely consistent, as these are central to the model’s identity.
Specifications Table
| General | |
| Brand | Harley-Davidson |
| Model | Softail |
| Model Class | FLSTN Softail Deluxe |
| Model Year | 2007–2011 |
| Type | Cruiser |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 1160 lb. (526 kg) |
| Maximum passengers | 2 |
| Performance | |
| Max. power | Approx. 68 Hp (51 kW) @ 5450 RPM (Stock) |
| Max. torque | Approx. 88 ft-lb (119 N•m) @ 3200 RPM (Stock) |
| Top designed speed | Approx. 110 mph (177 km/h) |
| Size | |
| Length | 94.7 in. (2405 mm) |
| Width | 38.6 in. (980 mm) |
| Height | 44.5 in. (1130 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 64.5 in. (1638 mm) |
| Seat height (Laden) | 24.5 in. (622 mm) |
| Ground clearance | 4.8 in. (122 mm) |
| Curb weight (Running Order) | 724 lb. (328 kg) |
| Engine | |
| Type | Air-cooled, Twin Cam 96B (45° V-Twin) |
| Displacement | 96 cu in (1584 cc) |
| Bore × Stroke | 3.75 in. × 4.38 in. (95.3 mm × 111.1 mm) |
| Compression ratio | 9.2: 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 20W-50 Harley-Davidson H-D 360 Motorcycle Oil |
| Idle speed | 1000 RPM ± 50 RPM |
| Transmission | |
| Transmission type | 6-speed Cruise Drive, manual gear shift |
| Clutch type | Wet, multi-disc, manual |
| Driving system | Belt drive |
| Primary reduction ratio | 1.353 (34/46) |
| Final reduction ratio | 2.125 (32/66) |
| Gear ratio | 1st: 3.337; 2nd: 2.313; 3rd: 1.719; 4th: 1.391; 5th: 1.188; 6th: 1.000 |
| Chassis | |
| Tire size | Front: MT90B16 (Whitewall); Rear: MU85B16 (Whitewall) |
| Rim size | Front: 16 in. Chrome Laced Steel; Rear: 16 in. Chrome Laced Steel |
| Capacity of fuel tank | 5.0 gal (18.9 L) |
| Fuel consumption | Approx. 35 MPG (City) / 54 MPG (Highway) |
| Electric | |
| Battery | 12V / 19 Ah |
| Headlight | Sealed beam with passing lamps |
| Tail light | Incandescent “Tombstone” housing |
| Suspension | |
| Front Suspension | 41.3 mm telescopic fork |
| Rear Suspension | Hidden, horizontal-mounted coil-over shocks with adjustable preload |
| Front travel | 5.1 in (130 mm) |
| Rear travel | 4.3 in (109 mm) |
