2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S Specifications

Name: 2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S
Brand: Harley-Davidson

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2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S Overview

The 2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S is a custom / cruiser motorcycle. Under the tank sits a V2, four-stroke engine running Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC) valve actuation, a compression ratio of 9.5:1. The bore and stroke measures 101.6 x 111.3 mm. 2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S delivers 145 Nm @ 4000 Revolutions of torque. From a practical standpoint, the 2016 Softail Slim S tips the scales at 321 kg, carries a 18.90-litre fuel tank, offers a seat height of 650 mm and spans a 1,636 mm wheelbase. Scroll down for the complete 2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S spec sheet covering every technical detail from suspension travel to tyre sizes.

2016 Softail Slim S - Pros & Cons

Strengths

Fuel injection: The fuel injection injection system delivers crisp throttle response and reliable cold starts regardless of altitude or temperature.
Accessible seat height: At 650 mm, the seat height is approachable for a wide range of rider heights and builds confidence in low-speed manoeuvring.

Considerations

Age-related wear: As with any used Softail Slim S, a thorough pre-purchase inspection covering consumables, service history and tyres is always recommended.

Owner Experiences & Common Issues

Throttle response and fuelling

The fuel injection on the 2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S is generally well-regarded. Some owners note a slight hesitation at small throttle openings when cold, which clears once the engine reaches operating temperature. A quick visual check of the injector connectors during routine servicing is good practice on higher-mileage examples.

Valve clearance checks

Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC) engines should have valve clearances checked at the manufacturer's specified interval. Owners report that clearances can tighten over time on higher-mileage bikes, leading to slight ticking from the top end. Catching it early keeps the job simple and avoids more costly remediation.

Softail Slim S - Buying & Maintenance Guide

What to check before buying

When inspecting a used 2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S, start with the basics: check the service book for oil change frequency, inspect the chain and sprockets for wear, and look for oil seepage around the engine casings and rocker covers. A cold start test is invaluable - a well-maintained Softail Slim S should fire up cleanly and settle to a smooth idle within a few seconds.

Oil and filter changes

Regular oil changes are the single most important maintenance task on any Softail Slim S. Stick to the manufacturer's interval - typically every 6,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first. The sump holds 3.30 litres, so budget for that volume of quality motorcycle-specific engine oil. Always use the correct viscosity grade as specified in the owner's manual.

Fuel system care

The Softail Slim S's fuel injection system is durable but benefits from quality fuel and the occasional use of a fuel-system cleaner additive. If the bike has been stored for more than three months, drain and replace the fuel to prevent varnish deposits in the injectors.

Valve clearance service

Check that valve clearances have been adjusted at the correct intervals on any used Softail Slim S. This is a job many owners skip because the bike does not immediately feel wrong - but tight clearances accelerate valve seat wear. Ask for proof it has been done.

2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S - Frequently Asked Questions

What engine does the 2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S have?

The 2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S is powered by a V2, four-stroke engine.

How much does the 2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S weigh?

The 2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S weighs 321 kg. This is the manufacturer's wet figure.

How much power does the 2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S make?

The 2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S produces 145 Nm @ 4000 Revolutions of torque.

What is the fuel tank capacity of the 2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S?

The 2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S has a 18.90-litre fuel tank.

Is the 2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S suitable for shorter riders?

The 2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S has a seat height of 650 mm. This is a comfortable, accessible height for most riders.

What brakes does the 2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S have?

The 2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S uses Single disc. ABS. 4-piston at the front and Single disc. ABS. 2-piston at the rear.

What tyre sizes does the 2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S use?

The 2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S runs MT90-B16 front and MU85-B16 rear tyres. A good selection of sport, touring and all-weather rubber is available in these sizes.

How much oil does the 2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S take?

The 2016 Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S takes 3.30 litres of engine oil at a full oil and filter change. Always verify against the dipstick or sight glass after filling.

Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S Spec Evolution

The Harley-Davidson Softail Slim S was produced across 2 model years (2016-2017). The table below highlights the key specifications that changed across the production run - useful whether you are comparing years or tracking down a specific variant.

Specification	2016	2017
Engine Detail	Screamin´Eagle engine	Screamin´Eagle® Twin Cam 110B
Compression Ratio	9.5:1	9.2:1
Rake	32.0°	32.1°
Exhaust	Chrome, over/under shotgun exhaust with slash-cut mufflers	Black over/under shotgun exhaust with slash-cut muffler
Power-to-Weight Ratio	0.3003 HP/kg	0.2987 HP/kg