2009–2009 Harley-Davidson Softail CVO Twin Cam 110 (FXSTSSE3 CVO Springer)

The 2009 Harley-Davidson Softail CVO Twin Cam 110 (FXSTSSE3 CVO Springer) represents a significant milestone in the manufacturer’s history, marking the final year a model equipped with the iconic Springer front end was produced by its Custom Vehicle Operations (CVO) division. As a CVO product, the FXSTSSE3 was a limited-production, factory-built custom motorcycle, showcasing the pinnacle of Harley-Davidson’s styling, performance, and exclusive features. It combined the nostalgic appeal of the Springer suspension with the formidable power of the Screamin’ Eagle Twin Cam 110B engine, creating a unique blend of classic chopper aesthetics and modern muscle.

Styling and CVO Details

The visual identity of the FXSTSSE3 is defined by its long, low-slung profile and meticulous attention to detail. The centerpiece is the chromed Springer front suspension, a design that traces its roots back to early Harley-Davidson models, providing a distinct mechanical and visual appeal unmatched by contemporary telescopic forks.

As a CVO model, the bike was adorned with exclusive features and finishes. It was offered in two elaborate, hand-finished paint schemes: Candy Cobalt with Blue Steel flames or Black Diamond with Emerald Ice flames. The graphics were intricate and complemented by an abundance of chrome, covering everything from the engine and transmission to the controls and the new 18-inch chrome “Revolver” wheels. Other premium details included a custom low-profile seat with a matching passenger pillion, forward-mounted foot controls, a “frenched” LED taillight integrated smoothly into the rear fender, and internally-wired handlebars for a clean, uncluttered look.

The 2009 Harley-Davidson Softail CVO Twin Cam 110 Engine

At the heart of the FXSTSSE3 is the Screamin’ Eagle Twin Cam 110B engine. This 110-cubic-inch (1803cc) V-Twin was the largest displacement engine offered by Harley-Davidson at the time and was exclusive to the CVO lineup. The “B” designation signifies that the engine is counter-balanced and rigid-mounted directly to the frame, transmitting more of the classic V-Twin character to the rider while minimizing harsh vibrations.

Paired with a 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission, the powertrain was engineered for strong acceleration and relaxed highway cruising. The engine featured Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) for reliable starting and crisp throttle response. Its high-torque output provided immediate power across the RPM range, making the bike feel both formidable and responsive.

Chassis and Handling

The motorcycle is built on the Harley-Davidson Softail frame, which cleverly conceals the rear shock absorbers horizontally beneath the transmission. This design achieves the clean, rigid-axle “hardtail” look of vintage bikes while delivering the ride comfort of modern rear suspension.

The defining element of its chassis is the Springer front end. Instead of hydraulic damping found in telescopic forks, it utilizes exposed external springs to absorb road imperfections. While this design offers a unique ride feel that is more connected to the road, the handling characteristics are distinct from those of bikes with conventional forks, especially under hard braking. The braking system itself consisted of a 4-piston caliper on the front and a 2-piston caliper on the rear.

Differences from the 2008 Model

The 2009 FXSTSSE3 CVO Springer built upon the foundation of its predecessor, the 2008 FXSTSSE2, with several key updates. The most significant change was the wheelset; the ’09 model featured matching 18-inch front and rear “Revolver” cast aluminum wheels, replacing the 21-inch front and 17-inch rear “Stinger” wheels of the 2008 version. This change subtly altered the bike’s stance and handling dynamics. Additionally, the 2009 model introduced new custom paint schemes, a revised speedometer and tachometer combination unit, and different trim components, further refining its exclusive identity for its final year of production.

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2009 FXSTSSE3 CVO Springer Specifications