Harley-Davidson SOFTAIL LOW RIDER ST (117 CUI) – FXLRST/22 Maintenance Schedule & Torque Settings

Engineering Heritage: The CVO DNA

The 2022 release of the FXLRST marked a pivotal moment in Harley-Davidson’s engineering history: it was the first time the high-performance 117-cubic-inch Milwaukee-Eight powertrain—previously exclusive to the elite Custom Vehicle Operations (CVO) line—was integrated into a standard production Softail chassis. This ‘West Coast’ performance bagger style combines the agility of the Softail frame with the aerodynamic efficiency of a frame-mounted fairing, inspired by the legendary FXRT.

Powertrain and Performance Analysis

At the heart of the FXLRST is the Milwaukee-Eight 117, a precision-cooled V-Twin that produces approximately 125 ft-lb of torque at 3500 RPM. From a technical perspective, the inclusion of the Heavy Breather intake and high-performance camshaft ensures optimal volumetric efficiency. To maintain this performance, the lubrication system requires 3.8 liters of high-viscosity oil, specifically formulated to handle the thermal loads of a large-displacement air/oil-cooled engine.

Maintenance Guide & Technical Specifications

Lubrication System

For maximum engine longevity, MotoSpecsLab recommends Screamin’ Eagle SYN3 Full Synthetic. This oil provides superior film strength at high operating temperatures. Always replace the oil filter during every change to prevent contaminant recirculation.

Chassis and Contact Patch

The FXLRST utilizes a specific tire combination designed for high-speed stability and aggressive cornering. The 110/90B19 front and 180/70B16 rear tires must be maintained at 36 psi (Front) and 42 psi (Rear). Incorrect pressure significantly impacts the bike’s counter-steering response and lean-angle predictability.

Electrical and Ignition

The ignition system relies on 6R10 spark plugs. To ensure complete combustion and prevent misfires under high load, the gap must be precisely set between 0.8 mm and 0.9 mm. The electrical system is anchored by the 66000207 battery, which provides the high cold-cranking amps (CCA) required to turn over the massive 117 CUI pistons.

MotoSpecsLab Verdict

The FXLRST is a masterpiece of modern American engineering. It bridges the gap between raw cruising power and touring capability. Adhering to the specific maintenance intervals for the Milwaukee-Eight 117 is not just recommended; it is essential for preserving the mechanical integrity of this high-performance machine.