1988 Harley-DavidsonNo image available

1988 Harley-Davidson FXSTS Springer Softail

cruiser80sUnited States

Born in 1988, the 1988 Harley-Davidson FXSTS Springer Softail is a 1338cc twin-cylinder cruiser producing 55hp from Harley-Davidson.

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
Springer 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
150 km/h (93 mph)
¼ Mile

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
280 kg (617 lbs)
Wet Weight
303 kg (668 lbs)
Seat Height
680 mm
Wheelbase
1545 mm
Ground Clearance
Fuel Capacity
18.0 L

History & Story

In 1988, Harley-Davidson launched the 1988 Harley-Davidson FXSTS Springer Softail — a cruiser that would come to define an era of motorcycling. Hailing from United States, it combined United States engineering with cruiser appeal.

The 1988 Harley-Davidson FXSTS Springer 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.

Weighing 280 kg (617 lbs) dry, the 1988 Harley-Davidson FXSTS Springer Softail uses a steel softail frame, springer fork front suspension, and hidden twin shock rear suspension. The braking system comprises single disc front and drum rear units.

Performance-wise, the 1988 Harley-Davidson FXSTS Springer Softail achieves a claimed top speed of 150 km/h (93 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 1988 Harley-Davidson FXSTS Springer 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 1988 Harley-Davidson FXSTS Springer Softail was one of the largest-displacement motorcycles of its era
  • The 1988 Harley-Davidson FXSTS Springer Softail was produced in Harley-Davidson's United States facilities
  • The 1988 Harley-Davidson FXSTS Springer Softail featured a steel softail frame typical of 1980s design philosophy

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Good
Collector Rating
7/10

Resources & Parts