2007–2011 Harley-Davidson Softail Twin Cam 96B (FLSTC Heritage Classic)

The 2007–2011 Harley-Davidson Softail Twin Cam 96B (FLSTC Heritage Classic) represents a significant era for one of the manufacturer’s most iconic models. This period saw the introduction of a larger, more powerful engine and a new transmission, enhancing the motorcycle’s touring capabilities while preserving the vintage “hardtail” styling that defines the Softail family. The FLSTC Heritage Classic, with its nostalgic design cues, served as a flagship cruiser that blended post-war aesthetics with modern engineering, appealing to riders seeking both comfort and classic American style.

For the 2007 model year, Harley-Davidson introduced a series of key mechanical upgrades across its Softail lineup, directly impacting the Heritage Classic. The most notable difference from the previous generation (2000-2006) was the replacement of the Twin Cam 88B engine with the new Twin Cam 96B. This update increased engine displacement from 88 cubic inches (1450cc) to 96 cubic inches (1584cc) by lengthening the stroke, resulting in a substantial boost in torque. Paired with this larger engine was the new 6-speed “Cruise Drive” transmission, which replaced the outgoing 5-speed gearbox. This addition provided a lower final drive ratio, reducing engine RPM at highway speeds for a smoother and more comfortable riding experience on long journeys. Furthermore, Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) became standard equipment, offering improved throttle response, better fuel efficiency, and more reliable starting compared to the carbureted systems available on earlier models.

The Twin Cam 96B Engine and Drivetrain

At the heart of the 2007–2011 Heritage Softail Classic is the Twin Cam 96B engine. This air-cooled, 45-degree V-Twin engine was a major step forward in performance for the Softail family. The “B” in its designation stands for “balanced,” indicating the presence of internal, gear-driven counter-balancers. Unlike Harley-Davidson’s touring and Dyna models where the engine is rubber-mounted to the frame to isolate vibration, the Softail engine is rigidly mounted. The counter-balancers were essential to cancel out the engine’s primary vibrations, providing a smoother ride without sacrificing the solid feel and clean aesthetic of the frame.

The 96-cubic-inch displacement delivered a significant increase in low-end torque, a characteristic highly valued by cruiser riders for strong acceleration from a standstill and confident passing power. The standard Sequential Port Fuel Injection system precisely managed the air-fuel mixture, contributing to the engine’s responsive and efficient performance across various riding conditions. The 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission was designed to handle the increased output of the 96B engine, featuring helical-cut gears for quieter operation and a tall sixth gear that made highway cruising more relaxed and economical.

Chassis, Suspension, and Styling

The FLSTC Heritage Classic’s defining feature is its adherence to a timeless design language, built upon the unique Softail frame. This frame cleverly conceals the rear shock absorbers horizontally beneath the transmission, creating the uninterrupted lines of a vintage rigid “hardtail” frame while offering the comfort of modern rear suspension. This design provides a clean, uncluttered look from the steering head to the rear axle.

The Heritage Classic’s styling is explicitly nostalgic, evoking the look of motorcycles from the 1940s and 1950s. Key features during the 2007–2011 period included:
Large, detachable Lexan windshield for rider comfort on longer rides.
Studded leather saddlebags and a matching studded rider and passenger seat.
A comfortable passenger backrest as standard equipment.
Full, valanced front and rear fenders.
Chrome, laced-steel wheels, often shod with wide whitewall tires.
Chrome passing lamps flanking the main headlight for a classic touring look.
* A signature “tombstone” taillight.

These elements combined to create a motorcycle that was fully equipped for light touring directly from the showroom floor, while maintaining a powerful sense of historical style. The model underwent minimal cosmetic changes throughout this five-year run, with new paint schemes and color options being the primary updates year over year.

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2007–2011 FLSTC Heritage Softail Classic Specifications