Motorcycle World: 2012 Harley-Davidson FLD Dyna Switchback

2012 Harley-Davidson FLD Dyna Switchback

2012 Harley-Davidson FLD Dyna Switchback

2012 Harley-Davidson FLD Dyna Switchback Review

With Detachable Hard Bags and Windshield, Switchback is Two Bikes in One

Easily convertible from cruising to touring, it's like two bikes in one, with no compromises.
The Dyna® Switchback™ is custom touring motorcycle with detachable hard saddlebags and quick-detach windshield. Remove those components in just seconds to turn the Switchback into a custom street cruiser. Chassis, suspension and tires are engineered to deliver light, confident handling.
The Switchback is the lightest custom touring motorcycle in its displacement category. Its styling evokes a classic proportion and clean, straightforward lines. The bend of the mini-ape handlebar and its pull-back riser combine with full-length rider footboards and a two-up touring seat to offer most Switchback riders all-day comfort.
The new Dyna® Switchback motorcycle from Harley-Davidson® is a quick-change artist. With its color-matched hard saddlebags and a fork-mounted windshield in place, the Switchback is a custom touring motorcycle. But in seconds, the detachable saddlebags and quick-detach windshield can be removed without tools. Now the Switchback is a custom street cruiser with a gleaming headlamp nacelle, five-spoke cast-aluminum wheels and a mini-ape handlebar. When it's time to head out for a long weekend, simply re-install the saddlebags and windshield, and the Switchback is ready to roll for the state line.
The Switchback is powered by a muscular Twin Cam 103™ V-Twin engine that delivers strong performance on the boulevard and on the highway. The Switchback is the lightest custom touring motorcycle in its displacement category, and at 718 pounds ready-to-ride is 94 pounds lighter than a Harley-Davidson Road King®. New front-end geometry, premium suspension components, and a low-profile front tire give the Switchback a plush ride and responsive handling.
"The new front end geometry, wheel and tire specs, and cartridge fork are engineered to work together to produce steering that's light to input and immediately responsive," Brian Scherbarth, Switchback project lead engineer. "A demo ride will reveal that Switchback is a capable touring motorcycle that's also really fun to ride."
Designed to look great with or without its saddlebags, the Switchback is styled to evoke a classic proportion and clean, straightforward lines from its 4.7-gallon fuel tank to the sweep of its full-coverage rear fenders. The bend of the mini-ape handlebar and its pull-back riser, full-length rider footboards and a two-up touring seat offer most riders all-day comfort.

CLEAN STYLING, CONVERTIBLE FEATURES
A union of opposites that sacrifices nothing, the Switchback's modern styling brings vintage Harley-Davidson simplicity to today’s roads in a look that defines classic: both true to its roots and completely contemporary. And with its detachable windshield and saddlebags, it's like having two bikes in one: a powerful, head-turning street cruiser that can also go the distance as a comfortable, easy-handling tourer.

CAST ALUMINUM WHEELS WITH FULL WRAP FENDERS These full fenders do more than keep the mud off during your long-hauls—they add to the Switchback's unique, classic-contemporary profile. And neither are the 5-spoke hot-rod wheels just for show: they may be eye-catching, but their cast aluminum construction and balanced engineering enhance the bike's confident handling.

HERITAGE DETAILING The Switchback’s classic retro features have a contemporary look that’ll never be lost in the crowd. From its hallmark headlight nacelle and its mini “ape hanger” handlebars, to its chromed-out fork covers and tank console with 5-inch speedo. this bike makes a modern visual statement that’s truly rooted in Harley-Davidson heritage.

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. 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 sure it's a sight they'll remember.

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 efficiency.

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. Black powder-coated heads and cylinders are highlighted by machined cooling fin tips and polished rocker covers. 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® TRANSMISSION You want a ride that rumbles—not begs for mercy—when you lean on it a little. The Six-Speed Cruise Drive provides smooth, quiet shifting and reduces engine speed on the highway, so you get a better match between engine turnover and road speed. And the Isolated Drive System makes acceleration flow in a smooth, steady stream from your wrist right down to the pavement. 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.

ARTFULLY HIDDEN TECHNOLOGY Harley-Davidson leverages the latest in technology without compromising style and function. We keep the electronics hidden by skillfully routing much of the wiring harness inside the bike's frame, keeping it out of sight behind its true jewels—the tank, engine and all the other eye-popping features you want seen. 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 Along with self-canceling turn signals that, based on the bike's speed and angle, know how long to stay on, the Switchback offers a new Flash-to-Pass switch and an the odometer trip-reset, all right at your fingertips. All these controls are incredibly intuitive, so engaging them becomes second nature quickly, letting you focus less on turning switches and more on the freedom of your ride.

ANTI-LOCK BRAKES (OPTIONAL) Our anti-lock brakes give “stopping power” a double meaning. We keep our ABS components tastefully hidden within the wheel hub, so you'll turn heads with clean, streamlined design. But more importantly, you get certainty in the saddle knowing your bike's going to behave when you need it.

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 detail and security that make Harley-Davidson motorcycles unique.

LIGHT WEIGHT CHASSIS You’re moving with monster power, but the Switchback is no monster to control. The chassis is tuned for a light-weight feel and easy handling, so you can move and maneuver with complete confidence, in all driving conditions—even getting it on or off its stand is easy.

CARTRIDGE-STYLE FRONT FORKS Authentic throwback styling's easy on the eyes, but you want to be sure you're riding with state-of-the-art comfort and confidence. And the Switchback's beefy cartridge-style front forks give you top-notch smoothness whether you're blazing the blacktop across town, long-hauling to the next state, or just prowling a parking lot.

ADJUSTABLE CIGAR TUBE REAR SHOCKS The classic-style suspension covers may add to the Switchback's vintage Harley-Davidson style, but the modern technology they’re wrapped around delivers a ride that feels anything but old school. Oil immersion damping control gives a smooth, quality ride that makes it easy to go the distance. And preload can be adjusted with just a spanner wrench, so you can easily switch your suspension to suit your riding style, touring or cruising

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.

CLEAN DETACHABLE SADDLEBAGS When you’re touring, you want cargo space. When you’re cruising, you want style, pure and simple. With its detachable saddlebags, your Switchback is always ready for what you want. The bags’ unique design makes easy to load in your stuff, while their sealed, locking, hard-case exterior keeps it well-protected. And when it’s time to convert, they come off quickly, cleanly, no tools needed. And like the classic Harley-Davidson® motorcycles it recalls, the Switchback looks great wearing its bags or not. So go ahead, change your mood whenever you want—your Switchback can keep up.

DETACHABLE WINDSHIELD Go from touring to cruising in a heartbeat. Attach the windshield for protection from the elements. Or detach it in seconds for a new look and ride. The Lexan® screen is as tough as they come—durable, scratch resistant, low maintenance. And whether you choose to cruise or keep the shield on, your Switchback rules with a style and versatility you can make your own.

2-INTO-1 EXHAUST Recalling the bold pipe style of classic Harley-Davidson® motorcycles, the new 2-into-1 exhaust helps direct heat away from you and your passenger while delivering powerful performance—not to mention that signature Harley-Davidson rumble every time you crack the throttle.

FULL-LENGTH RIDER FOOTBOARDS Your boots were made for riding, in any way you see fit. Our full-length footboards boast a tried-and-true design that's stood the test of time. Plenty of foot positions for your taste and comfort. Rubber vibration isolation for a comfortable ride.

TWO-UP SEAT Nostalgic style meets contemporary sleekness and comfort in this deeply contoured, narrow-necked bucket. This saddle relieves pressure on your thighs, while providing back support and comfort, along with plenty of room for your friend to ride along. Additionally, premium stitching accentuates the advanced ergonomics with that sharp detail you only find on a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle. It's science in service of comfort, for the short cruise and the long haul.

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.

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.

2012 Harley-Davidson FLD Dyna Switchback Model Highlights
- New model for 2012 model year
- Color-matched detachable hard saddlebags
- Quick-detach, fork-mounted windshield
- 2-into-1 chrome exhaust with straight-cut muffler
- Nitrogen-charged, 36mm monotube rear shocks have preload-adjustable, dual rate springs
- Cartridge-type 41.3mm front fork delivers enhanced damping performance, handling and ride comfort
- Black, 5-Spoke Cast Aluminum wheels with machine-highlighted rims; 18-inch front, 17-inch rear
- Full-coverage front and rear fenders
- Chrome headlamp nacelle
- Chrome fork covers and chrome rear shock covers
- Chrome tank console with integrated ignition switch
- Classic black battery box cover
- Full-length rider footboards
- One-piece, two-up seat with custom stitching
- Black powdercoated engine with polished covers
- 4.7-gallon Street Bob fuel tank
- Stainless steel, mini ape-hanger handlebar on pull-back riser
- Security Package Option bundles Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Smart Security System with proximity-based, hands-free
security fob

2012 Harley-Davidson FLD Dyna Switchback Features and Benefits
- Twin Cam 103™ engine with 103-cid (1690cc), rubber-mounted within the frame, is rated at 100 ft. lbs. of torque at 3500 RPM. The engine is equipped with Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) and is mated to a 6-speed Cruise Drive® transmission.
- 2-into-1 chrome exhaust with straight-cut muffler tuned for a deep exhaust tone.
Advanced suspension is tuned for comfort and precise handling. Nitrogen-charged, monotube rear shocks have preload-adjustable, dual rate springs. A 41.3mm front fork with a 20mm cartridge delivers enhanced damping performance, handling and ride comfort.
- Low-profile Dunlop® 130/70B18 front tire and specific front-end geometry provides reduced steering effort, enhanced steering response and confident low-speed manuevering.
- Color-matched detachable hard saddlebags have a combined luggage capacity of 30 pounds. The saddlebag locks are common to the ignition key, and external latches do not interfere with packing or reduce usable bag volume.
- Quick-detach, fork-mounted windshield.
- The Black, 5-Spoke Cast Aluminum wheels have machine-highlighted rims; 18-inch front, 17-inch rear.
- Full-coverage front and rear fenders.
- Chrome headlamp nacelle.
- Chrome fork covers and chrome rear shock covers.
- Chrome tank console with integrated ignition switch.
- Exposed under-seat battery box
- Exposed rear coil-over shock absorbers
- Classic black battery box cover.
- Full-length rider footboards.
- The one-piece, two-up seat features custom stitched detail. Seat height (laden) is 26.1 inches. Its narrow cross section enables flat-foot stops for most riders.
- Security Package Option bundles Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Smart Security System with proximity-based, hands-free security fob.
- Stainless steel, mini ape-hanger handlebar on pull-back riser.
- 4.7-gallon fuel tank.

2012 Harley-Davidson FLD Dyna Switchback - USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: Vivid Black $15,999, Solids $16,384 USD
Dimensions
Length 92.8 in. (2357 mm)
Overall Width 37.7 in. (958 mm)
Overall Height 55.5 in. (1409 mm)
Seat Height:
- Laden2 26.1 in. (663 mm)
- Unladen 27.4 in. (695 mm)

Ground Clearance 4.3 in. (110 mm)
Rake (steering head) 29.9°
Fork Angle 28.9°
Trail 5.84 in. (148.3 mm)
Wheelbase 62.8 in. (1595 mm)
Tires (Dunlop® Harley-Davidson® Series, bias blackwall front and rear):
- Front – Dunlop® D402F 130/70B18 63H
- Rear – Dunlop® D401 160/70B17 73H
Fuel Capacity 4.7 gal. (17.8 L) (warning light at approximately 0.9 gal.)
Oil Capacity (w/filter) 3.0 qts. (2.8 L)
Transmission Capacity 1.0 qt. (.95 L)
Primary Chain
Case Capacity 1.0 qt. (.95 L)

Weight:
- As Shipped 696 lbs. (316 kg)
- In Running Order 718 lbs. (326 kg)
- Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 1170 lbs. (531 kg)
- Gross Axle Weight Rating:
- Front 455 lbs. (206 kg)
- Rear 794 lbs. (360 kg)

Engine
Engine Air-cooled, Twin Cam 103™
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 111.3 mm)
Displacement 103 cu. in. (1690 cc)
Compression Ratio 9.6:1
Fuel System3 Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Air Cleaner Fiberglass media, 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, rectangular tube sections, stamped junctions; MIG welded
Front Forks 41.3 mm fork with 20 mm cartridge damping and triple rate spring
Rear Shocks Nitrogen charged 36 mm monotube damper with 5 step preload adjustable dual rate spring

Wheels4: Black 5-Spoke Cast Aluminum with highlighted rim
- Front 18 in. x 3.5 in. (457 mm x 89 mm)
- Rear 17 in. x 4.5 in. (432 mm x 114 mm)

Brakes:
- Caliper Type 4-piston fixed front, and 2-piston torque-free floating rear
- Rotor Type (diameter x width): Patented, uniform expansion rotors (floating, front only)
- Front (floating) 11.8 in. x .2 in. (300 mm x 5.1 mm)
- Rear 11.5 in. x .2 in. (292 mm x 5.1 mm)
- Anti-lock Braking System: Available

Suspension Travel:
- Front Wheel 3.86 in. (98 mm)
- Rear Wheel 2.13 in. (54 mm)

Performance
Engine Torque5 (per J1349):
- North America 100 ft. lbs. @ 3500 RPM (136 Nm @ 3500 RPM)
Lean Angle (per J1168):
- Right 29°
- Left 29°
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, 40-amp system (493W @ 13.5V, 2000 RPM, 540W max power @ 13.5V)
Starting 1.2kW electric with solenoid shift starter motor engagement
Lights (as per country regulation):
- Headlamp (quartz halogen) 55-watt low beam, 60-watt high beam
- Tail/Stop Lights 8W/28W
- Turn Signal Lights 28W self-canceling
- Indicator Lamps: High beam, neutral, low oil pressure, engine diagnostics, turn signals, low fuel warning, security system7 (optional), low battery, body controller diagnostics
COLOR OPTIONS
Solids
- Vivid Black
- Brilliant Silver Pearl
- Ember Red Sunglo

U.S. MSRP
Vivid Black $15,999
Solids $16,384

Warranty
Warranty8 24 months (unlimited mileage)
Service Interval9 First 1000 miles (1600 km), every 5000 miles (8000 km) thereafter
1 Vehicles depicted may differ from vehicles manufactured and delivered. Specifications and prices listed may differ from specifications and prices of vehicles manufactured and delivered. All product descriptions (including depictions, specifications, dimensions, measurements, ratings and competitive comparisons) are based on available information at the time of publication. Although such descriptions are believed correct, errors and changes can occur and complete accuracy cannot be guaranteed. Harley-Davidson may make changes at any time to prices and specifications, and may change or discontinue models, without notice and without incurring any obligation. Attention: Vehicles in the configurations shown and many of the accessories described in this catalog may not be available for sale or use in some locations. Please check with your dealer for complete product details and the latest information. All models feature 6-speed transmission (V-Rod® models and Sportster® models are 5-speed) and carbon fiber belt final drive; multi-plate clutch with diaphragm spring in oil bath; and 2-year unlimited mileage warranty.
2 Measurement reflects 180 lb. (81.7 kg) operator weight.
3 Recommended 91 octane or higher fuel (R+M)/2.
4 Standard and optional wheels may vary by country and region.
5 Values shown are nominal. Performance may vary by country and region.
6 The combined fuel economy numbers were derived using a combination of estimated city and highway values. Fuel economy estimates are derived from US EPA exhaust emission certification data on a sample motorcycle from the corresponding family under ideal laboratory conditions. Your actual fuel economy will vary depending on your personal riding habits, road and driving conditions, vehicle condition and maintenance, tire pressure, vehicle configuration (parts and accessories), and vehicle loading (cargo, rider and passenger weight). Break-in mileage may vary.
7 North America security system includes immobilizer; outside North America the security system includes immobilizer and siren.
8 See motorcycle owner’s manual for complete details.
9 Inspections of certain systems and components are required at 2500 mile (4000 km) intervals. See Owner’s Manual for full details.

2012 Harley-Davidson FLD Dyna Switchback - Canadian Specifications/Technical Details
Canada MSRP Price: Vivid Black $17,559, Color Option $17,979 CDN

Dimensions
Length: 2,360 mm
Seat Height, Laden: 663 mm
Seat Height, Unladen: 695 mm
Ground Clearance: 110 mm
Rake (steering head) (deg): 29.9
Trail: 148 mm
Wheelbase: 1,595 mm
Tires, Front Specification: 130/70B18 63H
Tires, Rear Specification: 160/70B17 73H
Fuel Capacity 3: 17.8 l
Oil Capacity (w/filter): 2.8 l
Weight, As Shipped: 320 kg
Weight, In Running Order: 330 kg
Luggage Capacity -Volume: N/A
Luggage Capacity -Weight: N/A

Engine
Engine 1: Air-cooled, Twin Cam 103™
Bore: 98.4 mm
Stroke: 111.1 mm
Displacement: 1,691 cc
Compression Ratio: 9.6:1
Fuel SystemElectronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)

Drivetrain
Primary Drive: Chain, 34/46 ratio
Gear Ratios (overall) 1st: 9.311
Gear Ratios (overall) 2nd: 6.454
Gear Ratios (overall) 3rd: 4.793
Gear Ratios (overall) 4th: 3.882
Gear Ratios (overall) 5th: 3.307
Gear Ratios (overall) 6th: 2.79

Chassis
Exhaust: New 2-into-1 chrome exhaust with straight-cut muffler
Wheels, Optional Style Type: N/A
Wheels, Front Type: Black, 5-Spoke Cast Aluminum
Wheels, Rear Type: Black, 5-Spoke Cast Aluminum
Brakes, Caliper Type: 4-piston fixed front, and 2-piston torque-free floating rear
Parking Brake: N/A

Performance
Engine Torque Testing Method: J1349
Engine Torque 2: 136 Nm
Engine Torque (rpm): 3,500
Lean Angle, Right (deg.): 29
Lean Angle, Left (deg.): 29
Fuel Economy: Combined City/Hwy: 5.6 l/100 km

Electric
Lights (as per country regulation), Indicator LampsHigh beam, neutral, low oil pressure, engine diagnostics, turn signals, low fuel warning, ABS (optional), low battery, body controller diagnostics

Gauges
Tank-mounted electronic speedometer with odometer, time-of-day clock on odometer, dual tripmeter, RPM/Gear display, fuel gauge with low fuel warning light and countdown feature, low oil pressure indicator light, engine diagnostics readout, LED indicator lights, 6-speed indicator light
1: Measurement reflects 180 lb. (81.7 kg) operator weight.
2: Recommended 91 octane or higher fuel (R+M)/2.
3: Values shown are nominal. Performance may vary by country and region.
4: Standard and optional fuel systems may vary by country.
5: Estimated from fuel economy tests on a sample motorcycle from the corresponding family conducted by Harley-Davidson under ideal laboratory conditions. Not all motorcycle models undergo fuel economy testing. Fuel economy and mileage may vary among motorcycle models within a family. Your mileage may vary depending on your personal riding habits, weather conditions, trip length, vehicle condition and vehicle configuration and other conditions. Break-in mileage may vary.
6: Standard and optional wheels may vary by country and region.
7: North America security system includes immobilizer; outside North America the security system includes immobilizer and siren.
8: See motorcycle owner's manual for complete details.

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Wednesday 26 October 2011

2012 Harley-Davidson FLD Dyna Switchback

2012 Harley-Davidson FLD Dyna Switchback

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