| Quick Specs: 2017 FLHXS Street Glide Special | |
|---|---|
| Engine | Milwaukee-Eight 107 (1745cc) |
| Oil Capacity | 4.73 Liters (1.25 Gallons) |
| Oil Type | H-D 360 20W50 or SYN3 20W50 |
| Front Tire | 130/60B19 61H (36 psi) |
| Rear Tire | 180/55B18 80H (40 psi) |
| Battery | 66010-97D |
| Spark Plugs | H-D 10R12X |
The 2017 Harley-Davidson Street Glide Special (FLHXS) represents a watershed moment in the Motor Company’s history. It was the inaugural year for the Milwaukee-Eight (M8) 107 powertrain in the Touring lineup, a design that replaced the long-standing Twin Cam architecture. This engine was engineered specifically to meet the stringent Euro 4 emissions standards while simultaneously delivering a 10% increase in torque and significantly improved heat management through precision oil-cooled cylinder heads.
Engineering Overview: The Milwaukee-Eight Era
The FLHXS/17 utilizes the 107 cubic inch variant of the M8, featuring four valves per cylinder and a single chain-driven camshaft. This configuration reduces mechanical noise and allows for a higher compression ratio. For the Euro 4 compliant models, the exhaust system and EFI mapping were meticulously tuned to balance backpressure with the signature Harley-Davidson rumble, ensuring compliance without sacrificing the visceral performance bagger enthusiasts demand.
Chassis and Suspension
Complementing the new engine was an overhauled suspension system. The 2017 model introduced the Showa Dual Bending Valve (SDBV) front fork technology, providing linear damping characteristics similar to a racing-style cartridge fork but with less weight. The rear features emulsion-technology shocks with a single-knob hydraulic preload adjustment, a critical upgrade for riders transitioning between solo touring and two-up loaded travel.
Maintenance Guide & Technical Requirements
Maintaining the FLHXS/17 requires adherence to specific tolerances to ensure the longevity of the M8 platform:
- Lubrication: The system requires 4.73 liters of oil. For standard climates, Harley-Davidson 360 20W50 Mineral oil is the factory standard, though Screamin’ Eagle SYN3 Synthetic is highly recommended for better thermal stability in the oil-cooled M8 heads.
- Electrical: The high-output charging system is paired with the 66010-97D battery. Given the infotainment demands of the Special trim, ensuring clean terminal connections is vital.
- Ignition: Use only the H-D 10R12X spark plugs, gapped to factory specifications to prevent misfires under the high-compression loads of the 107 engine.
Expert Verdict
The 2017 Street Glide Special remains one of the most desirable modern Harleys on the secondary market. It offers the perfect bridge between classic styling and modern engineering reliability. At MotoSpecsLab, we rate this model as a benchmark for the “Performance Bagger” category, provided the owner adheres to the strict 5,000-mile service intervals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I check tire pressure?
A: For the 130/60B19 front and 180/55B18 rear, check pressures weekly. Maintain 36 psi (F) and 40 psi (R) for optimal handling and tire life.
Q: Is the Euro 4 model different in performance?
A: The Euro 4 (FLHXS/17) features specific O2 sensors and catalytic converters. While slightly more restricted than US-only models, the torque delivery remains virtually identical at 150 Nm.