Cruisers

1996Harley-Davidson Heritage Softail Special

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The 1996 Harley-Davidson Heritage Softail Special is a classic cruiser built for riders seeking authentic American style and comfortable highway riding. Its 1338cc V-twin engine delivers reliable torque with a low-slung aesthetic, while the hidden rear suspension provides a vintage appearance with modern comfort. This model is best known for blending nostalgic design with practical cruiser performance, appealing to traditionalists who value character over cutting-edge features.

Capacity: 1338.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 287.0 kg
Seat height: 692 mm
Power: 57.0 HP (41.9 kW)

⇄ Compare with another bike ＋ Add to garage All model years ⚠ Recalls listed (1)

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering30%

City riding45%

Daily riding60%

Touring72%

Two-up70%

Track5%

Best for: Built for relaxed boulevard cruising and classic Harley styling rather than outright performance.
Built for: A classic, heavy-hitting American V-twin cruiser with laid-back power delivery and strong torque for effortless rolling acceleration.
Not ideal for: Not suited for riders seeking sharp cornering agility, high top-end speed, or any off-road capability.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 692mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 1996 Harley-Davidson Heritage Softail Special, with a cramped knee angle of around 75 degrees and an upright riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 750 mm or under — Short Kings →

Find bikes that fit your height →

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 1338.0 ccm
Power: 57.0 HP (41.9 kW)
Torque: 97.0 Nm (9.9 kgf-m)
Engine type: V-Twin
Power/weight ratio: 0.1986 HP/kg (dry)
Cooling system: Air
Starting: Electric
Valves per cylinder: 2

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Belt

Dimensions & weight

Seat height: 692 mm
Dry weight: 287.0 kg

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc
Rear brakes: Single disc

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

Safety Recalls

⚠ 1 recall may apply

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEMOct 1996 · 96V204000

THE EFFECTS OF REFORMULATED GASOLINE ALONG WITH CERTAIN USAGE OF THE FUEL SUPPLY VALVE AFFECTS THE SUPPLY OF GASOLINE TO THE CARBURETOR. THIS CONDITION REQUIRES TWO FACTORS: (1) THE USE OF REFORMULATED FUELS CONTAINING MBTE AND (2) STARTING THE MOTORCYCLE WITH THE FUEL VALVE HANDLE IN THE OFF POSITION.

Risk: THIS CONDITION CAN CAUSE THE FUEL FLOW TO BE UNPREDICTABLE THUS CAUSING THE ENGINE TO SHUT DOWN INCREASING THE RISK OF A MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT.

Remedy: DEALERS THE REPLACE THE DIAPHRAGM IN THE FUEL VALVE.

These recalls cover some 1996 bikes of this model. Whether one applies to a specific bike, and whether the repair has already been done, depends on its VIN — check your VIN with NHTSA or ask a dealer.

Source: NHTSA. View all Harley-Davidson recalls →