VS
The 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail and 1986 Harley-Davidson XLH-1100 Sportster represent two chapters in Harley-Davidson's storied history.
The 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail from United States was powered by a 1338cc OHV V-twin Evolution producing 55hp at 4800rpm. Weighing 271.0kg (597 lbs) and with a seat height of 680mm, it was aimed at cruiser riders.
The 1986 Harley-Davidson XLH-1100 Sportster by contrast offered 1100cc of OHV V-twin Evolution power, delivering 60hp at 5600rpm. Tipping the scales at 225.0kg (496 lbs) with a top speed of 170km/h (106 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1980s motorcycles are the rising stars of the collector market. Early sportbikes and final-generation air-cooled models are gaining strong interest.
The 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail from United States was powered by a 1338cc OHV V-twin Evolution producing 55hp at 4800rpm. Weighing 271.0kg (597 lbs) and with a seat height of 680mm, it was aimed at cruiser riders.
The 1986 Harley-Davidson XLH-1100 Sportster by contrast offered 1100cc of OHV V-twin Evolution power, delivering 60hp at 5600rpm. Tipping the scales at 225.0kg (496 lbs) with a top speed of 170km/h (106 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1980s motorcycles are the rising stars of the collector market. Early sportbikes and final-generation air-cooled models are gaining strong interest.
Specifications Comparison
| 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail | 1986 Harley-Davidson XLH-1100 Sportster | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1338 cc | 1100 cc |
| Power | 55 hp | 60 hp |
| Torque | 100.0 Nm | 80.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 155 km/h | 170 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 271.0 kg | 225.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 294.0 kg | 248.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 680 mm | 740 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1530 mm | 1480 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.0 L | 13.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Harley-Davidson machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail laid the groundwork with 55hp, while the later 1986 Harley-Davidson XLH-1100 Sportster pushed output to 60hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail holds the edge with a 7/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Harley-Davidson collection.
About the 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail
Harley-Davidson released the 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail in 1984 with a 1338cc OHV V-twin Evolution powerplant making 55hp — a definitive cruiser.
Full 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail Profile →About the 1986 Harley-Davidson XLH-1100 Sportster
Introduced in 1986, the 1986 Harley-Davidson XLH-1100 Sportster features a 1100cc OHV V-twin Evolution engine producing 60hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.
Full 1986 Harley-Davidson XLH-1100 Sportster Profile →