2008–2011 Harley-Davidson Softail Twin Cam 96B (FXCWC Rocker C)

The 2008–2011 Harley-Davidson Softail Twin Cam 96B (FXCWC Rocker C) is a factory custom cruiser motorcycle produced by Harley-Davidson. Launched as a radical departure from the company’s more traditional designs, the Rocker C was aimed directly at the then-popular custom chopper market, offering a wild, stretched-out look with the reliability and warranty of a production motorcycle. It was part of the Softail family, utilizing a frame with a hidden rear suspension to mimic the clean lines of a classic hardtail frame. The Rocker C, alongside its more subdued sibling, the FXCW Rocker, represented one of Harley-Davidson’s boldest design experiments of the 21st century.

Design and Development

In the mid-2000s, television shows like American Chopper fueled a massive public interest in highly customized, long-forked motorcycles with massive rear tires. Harley-Davidson’s design team sought to capture this aesthetic in a mass-produced model. The result was the Rocker, built on the company’s proven Softail platform.

The most significant departure from previous Softail models was the introduction of the “Rockertail” rear end. Unlike a standard Softail, where the rear fender is mounted to the frame, the Rocker’s fender was mounted directly to the swingarm. This design allowed the fender to move in unison with the rear wheel, enabling an extremely tight clearance between the tire and fender for a clean, custom “slammed” look that was previously only achievable with aftermarket kits or by forgoing rear suspension entirely.

Another groundbreaking feature was the innovative “Trick” solo seat, which concealed a passenger pillion beneath it. With a simple pull, a small passenger pad could be deployed from under the main seat and affixed to the fender, instantly converting the bike from a sleek solo cruiser to a two-up machine. This system provided versatility without compromising the motorcycle’s flowing, minimalist lines when ridden solo.

Key Features of the 2008–2011 Harley-Davidson Softail Twin Cam 96B (FXCWC Rocker C)

The Rocker was available in two distinct variations: the standard FXCW Rocker and the premium FXCWC Rocker C. The Rocker C was the more visually striking of the two, distinguished by its extensive use of chrome and custom-style finishes.

Styling and Finish: The Rocker C was defined by its bright, show-bike appearance. It featured a color-matched frame, swingarm, and oil tank, often adorned with ghost-flame graphics. In contrast to the satin metallic finishes on the standard Rocker, nearly every component on the Rocker C was polished or chrome-plated, including the fork lowers, triple clamps, handlebar risers, and engine covers. The bike also featured distinctive 5-spoke polished cast aluminum wheels.

Powertrain: At the heart of the Rocker C was the air-cooled Twin Cam 96B engine. The “B” signifies that it is the counter-balanced version of the 96-cubic-inch (1584cc) V-Twin, designed specifically for rigid mounting in the Softail frame. This setup provided a direct, visceral connection between the rider and the engine’s power delivery while minimizing harsh vibrations. The engine was paired with a 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission, offering comfortable RPMs for highway cruising.

Chassis and Ergonomics:** The Rocker C’s chassis was engineered to create its signature long-and-low profile. It featured a 36.5-degree fork rake combined with a 240mm rear tire, the widest ever offered on a production Harley-Davidson at the time. This combination contributed to its dramatic chopper stance. The ergonomics were equally stylized, with V-bar handlebars on risers pulling the grips back toward the rider, who sat low in the 24.5-inch solo seat.

Market Reception and Legacy

Upon its release, the Rocker C was one of the most polarizing models in Harley-Davidson’s history. It was lauded by many in the custom scene for its bold styling and innovative features, particularly the Rockertail and Trick seat. However, it was met with skepticism by some traditional Harley-Davidson enthusiasts who found its aesthetic too extreme. The bike’s handling characteristics, influenced by the wide rear tire and aggressive rake, also offered a different experience compared to other Softails.

Despite its initial buzz, sales did not meet expectations, and the model was discontinued after the 2011 model year. Its short production run has since made the FXCWC Rocker C a relatively rare and sought-after model for collectors and riders seeking a unique factory custom with a distinctive place in Harley-Davidson’s lineage.

Specifications