2012 Harley-Davidson FLS Slim
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2012 Harley-Davidson FLS Slim
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2012 Harley-Davidson FLS Slim Review
The perfect blend of classic, raw bobber style and contemporary power creates a modern ride with unmistakable old-iron attitude.
Pare down a Harley-Davidson® Softail® motorcycle to its essential elements and you have the Slim. From its trimmed front fender to its narrow rear end, Slim is a no-nonsense, back-to-basics motorcycle. Call it stripped. Call it old school. Call it lean and mean. What's left is the elemental Softail profile and iconic Harley-Davidson® style that recalls classic custom bobbers of the 1950s.
NEW HARLEY-DAVIDSON® SOFTAIL® SLIM MOTORCYCLE IS A CLEAN, OLD-SCHOOL CUSTOM
Stripped-Down, Narrow Styling with Less Chrome and Retro Details
"It's time to once again make the engine the design focal point of a motorcycle," says Senior Designer, Casey Ketterhagen. "So we put a Softail® [motorcycle] on a diet to get the proportions back in check. Scale down the rear with a narrow tire and chopped fender and the heart of the bike, the motor, becomes the focus. We left a gap between the nose of the seat and tank so the rider can see the top of the motor. I like to be able to look down and see what's moving me."
To keep the rear of the motorcycle simple and clean, the Slim motorcycle has combination stop/turn/tail lights along with a centre mounted LED tail light and licence plate illuminator. The rear fender struts are left uncovered, exposing the forged steel and fasteners. A thin formed-leather strap covers the fuel tank seam. The powertrain is finished with polished covers instead of chrome, and the black cylinders are left unhighlighted. The FL front fender is trimmed to expose more of the tire.
"I'd personally like to strip the bike down even further," says Ketterhagen, "but this is as far as we can go on a production model. The Slim [motorcycle] is intended to be a direct interpretation of home-built customs of the 1940s and 50s, and we used a number of components that evoke that era, beginning with a Hollywood handlebar."
The Hollywood bar, identified by its wide bend and cross brace, was originally an accessory for Harley Davidson® models with a Springer® fork. The name may have been coined because owners of that era, who used the cross-brace to mount lights and bags, had "gone Hollywood" with excessive accessorization. For the Slim motorcycle, the cross-braced bar is finished in Gloss Black, with matching Gloss Black hand controls and a louvered headlight nacelle. Other period styling cues include a Gloss Black "cat's eye" tank console with a retro speedometer face, half-moon rider footboards, a round air cleaner cover, and Gloss Black wheel rims and hubs. The cover of the solo seat is stitched in a tuck-and-roll pattern.
"The seat really gives you the feeling of sitting in the bike, rather than on it," says Ketterhagen. "The bars are nice and low, too, so when you're riding you have an unobstructed view forward, which reinforces the idea that this is a very elemental motorcycle, a real back-to-basics ride."
A counter-balanced Twin Cam 103B engine is rigid-mounted within the frame, creating a solid connection between rider and the machine. The Softail® chassis mimics the clean lines of a vintage hardtail frame, but uses rear suspension control, provided by coil-over shock absorbers that are mounted horizontally and out of sight within the frame rails. With the combination of a 23.8-inch seat height and rider footboards, the Slim motorcycle comfortably fits a wide range of riders and offers light side-stand lift-off. A pull-back riser from Harley-Davidson® Genuine Motor Accessories can be installed to move the handlebars back two inches without changing the control cables and lines.
The Slim represents the Harley-Davidson Softail motorcycle paired down to its essential elements in the style of custom bobbers of the 1950s, from its trimmed front fender to its narrow rear end, solo seat and minimal chrome. A cross-braced Hollywood handlebar and headlight nacelle are finished in gloss black. Other period styling cues include a "cat's eye" tank console, half-moon rider footboards, and gloss black wheel rims and hubs. The 1690 cc Twin Cam 103B™ powertrain is finished with polished covers instead of chrome. The Softail chassis mimics the clean lines of a vintage hardtail frame, but utilizes rear suspension control provided by coil-over shock absorbers mounted horizontally and out of sight within the frame rails. With the combination of a 23.8-inch seat height and rider foot boards, the Slim comfortably fits a wide range of riders.
2012 Harley-Davidson FLS Slim Model Highlights
• Paint color options: Vivid Black, Black Denim, Ember Red Sunglo
• Powertrain finished in Black powdercoat with polished covers
• Hollywood handlebar with cross-brace
• Gloss Black, round air cleaner cover
• Black “cat’s eye” console holds electronic speedometer with retro-style face
• Chopped rear fender
• Chrome, over/under shotgun exhaust with slash-cut mufflers
• Classic 5.0-gallon Fat Bob® fuel tank
• Dunlop 16-inch (MT90B16) front and (MU85B16) rear tires
• Black, Steel Laced wheels
• Gloss black headlamp with chrome trim ring
• Half-moon footboards with retro-style foot control pads
• Trimmed FL front fender
• Side-mounted license plate
• Combined stop/tail/turn tail lights
• Solo seat with black tuck-and-roll vinyl cover
• Forged rear fender supports are finished in Gloss Black powdercoat
• Gloss Black “horseshoe” oil tank
2012 Harley-Davidson FLS Slim Features and Benefits
The Softail® Slim™ represents the Harley-Davidson® Softail® motorcycle paired down to its essential elements in the style of custom bobbers of the 1950s, from its narrow rear end to its trimmed front fender, solo seat and minimal chrome. With the combination of a 23.8-inch seat height and rider footboards, the Softail Slim comfortably fits a wide range of riders.
The Softail rear suspension mimics the clean lines of a vintage hardtail frame but offers the comfort of a modern suspension that is hidden under the chassis. The rigid powertrain allows tight packaging of the engine and frame and creates a solid connection between the rider and the power that moves the motorcycle.
• Rigid-mounted, air-cooled, 1690 cc Twin Cam 103B™ counter-balanced engine with Automatic Compression Release (ACR) rated at 98.7 ft. lbs. peak torque at 3000 rpm.
• 6-speed Cruise Drive® transmission
• Security Package Option (factory-installed option) includes: Harley-Davidson® Smart Security System with proximity-based,
hands-free security fob and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
"HOLLYWOOD" HANDLEBARS AND "CAT EYE" CONSOLE
A cutting-edge ride that's rich with Harley-Davidson history, the Slim model's old-iron soul comes alive right up front. Unique retro-inspired handlebars call back to the glory days of 1940s bobbers, while the gloss-black headlamp cover and the "Cat Eye" console with its retro speedo face add even more swing-era swagger.
NARROW REAR PROFILE
The narrow rear tire and chopped fender with its integrated stop/turn/tail light and side-mounted license plate add up to a stripped-down profile that evokes the iconic, no-nonsense style of classic bobbers.
ROUND AIR CLEANER COVER
The gloss-black retro round air cleaner cover gives the Slim model's minimalist, blacked-out Twin Cam 103 Engine a raw old school look—it's modern power with old iron attitude.
HIDDEN REAR SHOCKS
If you want a comfortable bike but love that rigid-suspension look, you've come to the right bike. We've kept all the modern comforts where they belong—below the surface of a rad, vintage-looking bike. You get the classic lines of a vintage 'hardtail' frame with the horizontal rear shocks hidden in the guts. It's a signature rigid look, and you'll only find it on a Softail® model.
PREMIUM PAINT
Up to two times thicker than the competition, custom quality paint comes standard on all Harley-Davidson® motorcycles. Clearcoat layering up to five mils deep. Bigger metal flakes. Unique effects. Skimping simply is not in our vocabulary.
HAND FINISHED FUEL TANK
All Harley-Davidson® fuel tanks are finished by hand—that's what makes them stand out from the competition. Their seamless design and unmatched style are unique among all motorcycles on the road. The tanks are one of the first and last things people notice when they lay their eyes on a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle—so we make it worth their time.
TWIN CAM 103™ ENGINE HERITAGE
The knowledge of what makes an engine truly move a rider runs deep at The Motor Company, and it was put to good use when we created the Twin Cam 103™ engine. We sweated bullets perfecting every cubic inch, pushing design and technology forward. And we did it all without compromising one bit of Harley-Davidson's unique styling. Evolved, yet carrying on the legacy of the Flathead, Knucklehead, Panhead, Shovelhead, Evolution®, Twin Cam 88®; and Twin Cam 96™ engines that came before. The performance and durability are a direct result of the untold miles logged on the V-Twin since 1909, and the proud heritage that comes from a century's worth of commitment to life on two wheels.
TWIN CAM 103™ ENGINE INNOVATION
Fire up the Twin Cam 103™ engine and feel the low-end torque unleashed. Thanks to the lightweight piston design, delivery of the added power is more refined than ever. Then put your foot on the shifter and feel how the engine and Six-Speed Cruise Drive® transmission were designed to work together. Six speeds. A strong driveline and strong internal parts. Low routine maintenance. And a low cruising rpm couldn't feel better.
PURE HARLEY-DAVIDSON STYLING
Feast your eyes on the Twin Cam 103™ engine and there's no mistaking its roots. This is authentic Harley-Davidson style through and through with an attention to detail you won't find from any other motorcycle company. Medium gray engine with black powder-coated cylinders and cylinder heads are topped off with polished rocker covers and an old school round air cleaner cover for a tough vintage Harley-Davidson attitude. It's a jewel machined out of metal. Pure. Dripping with power. From the classic edge of the cooling fins to the clean lines of cases and covers—the Twin Cam 103™ engine makes an ironclad statement about holding on to what's right and staying true to what satisfies.
SIX-SPEED CRUISE DRIVE®
You want a ride that rumbles—not begs for mercy—when you lean on it a little. The Six-Speed Cruise Drive® transmission provides smooth, quiet shifting and reduces engine speed on the highway, so you get a better match between engine turnover and road speed. It's a rare ride when a bike responds like this, and a low growl goes a long way when you're opening up the road ahead.
TWIN CAM 103™ ENGINE POWER
Live your ride to the power of 103. The air cooled Twin Cam 103™ Harley-Davidson® engine delivers more stump pulling torque, while its Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection jetting gives crisp, lively throttle reaction. It’s a performance punch that you’ll appreciate when passing, climbing hills, or rolling with luggage packed or a passenger in back—all under that signature Motor Company rumble. And it comes at lower cruising rpm, so you ride more smoothly, with less engine vibration and better highway fuel economy.
ANTI-LOCK BRAKES (OPTIONAL)
When it comes to the Slim with optional ABS, 'stopping power' has a double meaning. The components of our ABS are tastefully hidden within the wheel hub, so you'll still turn heads with clean, streamlined design. More importantly, though, you get certainty in the saddle knowing your bike's going to behave when you need it. Offered as a part of the 'Security Package' (which includes the H-D® Smart Security System).
H-D SMART SECURITY SYSTEM (OPTIONAL)
The factory installed next-generation security system features a hands-free fob that automatically arms and disarms the vehicle electronic security functions as you approach and walk away from the bike. Stick the fob on your ignition key ring and let it do all the work. It's this attention to details and security that make Harley-Davidson® motorcycles unique. Offered as a part of the 'Security Package' (which includes Anti-Lock Brakes).
ARTFULLY HIDDEN TECHNOLOGY
Harley-Davidson leverages the latest in technology without compromising style and function. That means we hide electronics. The whole wiring harness is skillfully routed behind the jewels of the bike—the tank, engine and all the other eye-popping features you want to see. It's just another way The Motor Company goes the extra mile to give its bikes that premium, top-of-the-line fit and finish.
INTUITIVE CONTROLS
Hand controls on a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle are incredibly intuitive. The turn signals are self-canceling and, based on the speed and angle of the motorcycle, they know how long to stay on. Engaging the controls quickly becomes second nature so you can focus less on turning off your signal and more on basking in the freedom of the ride.
ENGINEERED FOR EASY HANDLING
The Slim motorcycle may come on heavy, but its been designed to handle like a dream, with easy jiffy stand lift-off and great low-speed maneuverability, so you're always riding in control. And when it's time to stop, the low-slung saddle means your feet easily reach the road.
DUNLOP® TIRES
Whether you're crossing state lines or staying within city limits, you want sure contact with the road. The front end holds a premium touring tire with a three-ply polyester casing and two fiberglass belts. The back cruiser tire has an advanced tread pattern. Made from a specifically formulated compound, it delivers outstanding grip in wet or dry weather. And since they're from Dunlop®, you know you're wrapping your premium rollers in quality rubber.
TUNED TO BE RIDDEN
Harley-Davidson® motorcycles are different from any other bike out on the road. There's a balance to them. The steering, the maneuverability—it's all in concert. And each Harley-Davidson® model is tuned differently to create a unique riding experience for each individual no matter which bike they swing their leg over. Let's face it, we didn't get to where we are by being like everyone else.
LOW SOLO SEAT
The low-slung solo saddle matches the motorcycle's clean, back-to-basics attitude, setting you "in" the bike so you ride like you're a part of it and the open road ahead of you.
HALF MOON FOOT BOARDS
Cruise ahead with both feet in the past with this fresh twist on a classic design. The look may be vintage but the comfort is up-to-date: the chrome-plated steel surround and high durability raised rubber shapes are assembled to offer modern cast-in vibration isolation.
ENGINE IDLE TEMPERATURE MANAGEMENT STRATEGY
Our motorcycles are built to be ridden. A lot. So that means that rider comfort is top of mind. Always. With the Engine Idle Temperature Management Strategy (EITMS) feature, the motorcycle automatically cuts fuel and fire from rear cylinder when idling, which helps reduce engine heat felt by rider and passenger. This feature can easily be turned on by your dealer.
SEAT ENGINEERING AND DESIGN
The seat is home for Harley-Davidson® motorcycle riders. They want a seat that has unique style without sacrificing comfort. Because of that, Harley-Davidson invests a lot of time in researching, designing and testing seats so that every bike has just the right saddle.
USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: Vivid Black $15,499; Color Option $15,884 USD
DIMENSIONS
Length 94.3 in. (2395 mm)
Overall Width 39.0 in. (990 mm)
Overall Height 43.3 in. (1100 mm)
Seat Height:
• Laden2 23.8 in. (605 mm)
• Unladen 25.9 in. (658 mm)
Ground Clearance 4.5 in. (114 mm)
Rake (steering head) 31°
Fork Angle 31°
Trail 5.8 in. (147 mm)
Wheelbase 64.4 in. (1636 mm)
Tires (Dunlop® Harley-Davidson® Series, bias blackwall front and rear):
• Front – 402F MT90B16 72H
• Rear – 402 MU85B16 77H
Fuel Capacity 5.0 gal. (18.9 L) (warning light at approximately 1.0 gal.)
Oil Capacity (w/filter) 3.5 qts. (3.3 L)
Transmission Capacity 1.0 qt. (.95 L)
Primary Chain
Case Capacity 1.0 qt. (.95 L)
Weight:
• As Shipped 671 lbs. (304.4 kg)
• In Running Order 700 lbs. (317.5 kg)
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 1160 lbs. (526.0 kg)
• Gross Axle Weight Rating:
• Front 694 lbs. (314.8 kg)
• Rear 725 lbs. (328.9 kg)
ENGINE
Engine Air-cooled, Twin Cam 103B Valves Pushrod-operated, overhead valves with hydraulic, self-adjusting lifters; two valves per cylinder
Bore x Stroke 3.875 in. x 4.38 in. (98.4 mm x 111.1 mm)
Displacement 103 cu. in. (1690 cc)
Compression Ratio 9.6:1
Fuel System3 Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Air Cleaner Paper, washable
Lubrication System Pressurized, dry-sump
DRIVETRAIN
Primary Drive Chain, 34/46 ratio
Final Drive Belt, 32/66 ratio
Clutch Multi-plate, wet
Transmission 6-Speed Cruise Drive® Gear Ratios (overall): U.S.
• 1st 9.311
• 2nd 6.454
• 3rd 4.793
• 4th 3.882
• 5th 3.307
• 6th 2.79
CHASSIS
Frame Mild steel tubular frame; rectangular section backbone; stamped, cast, and forged junctions; forged fender supports; MIG welded
Swingarm Mild steel, round tube sections, forged junctions; MIG welded Front Forks 41.3 mm telescopic, “beer can” covers
Rear Shocks Hidden, horizontal-mounted, coil-over
Wheels4: Black Steel Laced
• Front 16 in. x 3 in. (406 mm x 76 mm)
• Rear 16 in. x 3 in. (406 mm x 76 mm)
Brakes:
• Caliper Type 4-piston front and 2-piston rear
• Rotor Type (diameter x width): Patented, uniform expansion rotors
• Front 11.5 in. x .2 in. (292 mm x 5.1 mm)
• Rear 11.5 in. x .23 in. (292 mm x 5.8 mm)
• Anti-lock Braking System: Available
Suspension Travel:
• Front Wheel 5.1 in. (130 mm)
• Rear Wheel 4.3 in. (109 mm)
PERFORMANCE
Engine Torque5 (per J1349):
• North America 98.7 ft. lbs. @ 3000 RPM (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM)
Lean Angle (per J1168):
• Right 24°
• Left 24.9°
Fuel Economy6
(EPA urban/highway test) 42 mpg (5.6 L/100 km)
ELECTRIC
Battery (per Battery Council International Rating)
Sealed, maintenance-free, 12V, 19-amp/hour, 270 cca
Charging Three-phase, 38-amp system (439W @ 13V, 2000 RPM, 489W max power @ 13V)
Starting 1.2 kW electric with solenoid shift starter motor engagement
Lights (as per country regulation):
• Headlamp (quartz halogen) 55-watt low beam, 60-watt high beam
• Turn Signal Lights 8W/28W (5W/21W)
• Rear Tail/Stop/Turn Signal Lights 8W/28W (5W/21W) self-canceling
• Indicator Lamps: High beam, neutral, low oil pressure, turn signals, engine diagnostics, security system7 (optional), 6-speed,
low fuel warnings
WARRANTY
Warranty8 24 months (unlimited mileage)
Service Interval9 First 1000 miles (1600 km), every
5000 miles (8000 km) thereafter
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