1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail

1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail

cruiser80sUnited States

Harley-Davidson released the 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail in 1984 with a 1338cc OHV V-twin Evolution powerplant making 55hp — a definitive cruiser.

Specifications

Engine

Type
OHV V-twin Evolution
Displacement
1338 cc
Cylinders
2
Power
55 hp @ 4800 rpm
Torque
100.0 Nm
Compression
Bore × Stroke
88.8 × 108.0 mm
Cooling
Air-cooled
Fuel System
Keihin carburetor

Chassis & Transmission

Frame
Steel Softail
Front Suspension
Telescopic fork
Rear Suspension
Hidden twin shock
Front Brake
Single disc
Rear Brake
Drum
Front Tyre
Rear Tyre
Transmission
5-speed
Final Drive
Belt

Performance

Top Speed
155 km/h (96 mph)
¼ Mile

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
271 kg (597 lbs)
Wet Weight
294 kg (648 lbs)
Seat Height
680 mm
Wheelbase
1530 mm
Ground Clearance
Fuel Capacity
18.0 L

History & Story

The 1984 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail was introduced by Harley-Davidson as a cruiser aimed at riders seeking cruiser performance and style. Manufactured in United States, it represented Harley-Davidson's vision for the twin-cylinder cruiser market during the 1980s.

The 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail is motivated by a 1338cc OHV V-twin Evolution twin-cylinder unit delivering 55hp at 4800 rpm. Breathing through Keihin carburetor and kept cool by air-cooled, the engine drives through a 5-speed transmission with belt final drive.

Built around a steel softail frame, the 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail suspends its 271 kg (597 lbs) on telescopic fork forks and hidden twin shock rear units. Braking relies on single disc at the front and drum at the rear, with a 1530 mm wheelbase providing stability.

Performance-wise, the 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail achieves a claimed top speed of 155 km/h (96 mph). With a generous fuel capacity of 18.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for cruiser duties. The seat height of 680 mm makes it accessible for most riders.

Today, the 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail is considered a respected classic that attracts serious collector interest and continues to appreciate. Parts availability is rated as good, making ownership relatively straightforward. It remains an icon of Harley-Davidson motorcycling from 1980s.

Known Issues

  • Oil leaks considered normal on vintage models
  • Primary chain tensioner adjustment

Fun Facts

  • The 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail was one of the largest-displacement motorcycles of its era
  • The 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail was produced in Harley-Davidson's United States facilities
  • The 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail featured a steel softail frame typical of 1980s design philosophy

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Good
Collector Rating
7/10

Resources & Parts