2008–2011 Harley-Davidson Softail Twin Cam 96B (FLSTSB Cross Bones)

The 2008–2011 Harley-Davidson Softail Twin Cam 96B (FLSTSB Cross Bones) is a cruiser motorcycle introduced by Harley-Davidson as part of its “Dark Custom” line. The model is distinguished by its post-war, bobber-inspired styling, featuring a springer front end, a sprung solo saddle, and chopped fenders. Produced for a limited four-year run, the Cross Bones was designed to evoke the spirit of custom garage-built bikes from the 1940s and 1950s while incorporating modern engineering and reliability. Its name, “Cross Bones,” and skull-and-crossbones tank graphic further reinforced its rebellious, old-school aesthetic.

Design and Styling

The visual identity of the FLSTSB Cross Bones is deeply rooted in classic bobber design principles. The most prominent feature is its gloss black Springer front end with chrome springs, a direct homage to the front suspensions used on Harley-Davidson models prior to 1949. This vintage component was paired with modern performance characteristics, offering a unique blend of form and function.

The motorcycle’s stripped-down look was achieved through several key elements. It featured “bobbed” or shortened fenders, exposing more of the tires and contributing to a lighter, more aggressive stance. Seating was a low-profile, adjustable solo spring saddle, which not only enhanced the vintage look but also provided a degree of mechanical suspension for the rider. Ergonomics were defined by mini ape-hanger handlebars and traditional half-moon rider floorboards, placing the rider in an upright and commanding position.

Finishes on the Cross Bones were intentionally subdued, aligning with the Dark Custom theme. The model often featured wrinkle-black finishes on the engine and other components, with gloss black paint on the frame, oil tank, and fenders. The “cat-eye” console on the five-gallon fuel tank housed a simple speedometer, keeping the cockpit clean and minimalist.

The Harley-Davidson Softail Twin Cam 96B Powertrain

At the heart of the FLSTSB Cross Bones is the Twin Cam 96B engine. The “96” denotes its displacement of 96 cubic inches (1584cc). The “B” signifies that the engine is counter-balanced, using internal balance shafts to quell the majority of the V-twin’s primary vibrations. This was a crucial feature for the Softail chassis, where the engine is rigid-mounted directly to the frame. By mounting the engine solidly, it becomes a stressed member of the frame, contributing to overall chassis stiffness.

This air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin engine was equipped with Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI), providing reliable starting and smooth throttle response. The powertrain was paired with Harley-Davidson’s 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission, which featured a tall top gear for relaxed, low-RPM highway cruising. The engine was tuned for strong low-end torque, delivering the signature V-twin power delivery favored by cruiser riders.

Chassis and Suspension

The Cross Bones is built on the Harley-Davidson Softail frame, which is designed to mimic the clean, rigid lines of a vintage “hardtail” frame. The “soft” aspect comes from the two rear shock absorbers, which are mounted horizontally and hidden beneath the transmission. This design provides the classic hardtail look without sacrificing modern rider comfort.

The front suspension is the aforementioned Springer fork. Unlike conventional telescopic forks, a springer fork uses a system of rockers and springs mounted externally to absorb bumps. While visually archaic, the design was updated with modern damping control for improved handling. The rear suspension offered preload adjustment to accommodate different rider weights. The bike rode on black laced steel wheels with a wide 200mm rear tire, further enhancing its muscular, bobber profile.

Differences from Previous Models

As a new model for 2008, the Cross Bones represented a significant update in both style and performance compared to earlier Harley-Davidson cruisers. The most notable advancement was the powertrain. The Twin Cam 96B engine provided a substantial increase in displacement and torque over the Twin Cam 88B (88 cubic inches / 1450cc) that powered previous-generation Softail models. This was complemented by the move from a 5-speed to the 6-speed Cruise Drive transmission, a feature that became standard across the Big Twin lineup.

Stylistically, the Cross Bones was a deliberate departure from the chrome-laden designs of other Softail models like the Heritage Softail Classic or the Fat Boy. It was a leader in the Dark Custom movement, prioritizing matte and black finishes over bright chrome and embracing a minimalist, garage-built aesthetic that had not been offered in a factory production model with this level of detail before.