BRING THE OLD SCHOOL STANCE BACK WITH A MODERN DAY OLD SCOOL DESIGN.
Fully assembled custom style springer front end. Project-ready for Harley-Davidson Big Twin and Sportster applications. Genuine Mid-USA components.
MID-USA PART NUMBER
CONFIGURE YOUR SUSPENSION KIT
Select your kit type then your finish
WORKSHOP PRICE
• Rocker grease fittings. • Fully assembled with a forged in-line top bracket without a built-in rake. • The standard length springer (24” measured from the bottom bearing to the axle center) is comparable to a standard length FXST front end. • 1” O.D. steering stem designed for Timken® type bearings. • Both rear legs are threaded for right or left brakes. • 1” O.D. front legs. • Forged rockers for superior strength. • Rear legs are 1 piece from the rocker to the top tree. • The 3/4” O.D. axle kit includes a brake mount pivot with thrust washer and hub spacers (custom spacers may be required depending on the wheel used). • Measures 9 1/4” between rockers. • Riser mounts are on 4 3/4” centers and threaded 1/2-20. • Includes 3/4” axle with all spacers.
WORKSHOP NOTES
An original Harley-Davidson Springer front end uses stationary rear legs attached to the frame neck and a moving front fork linked by pivoting arms called rockers, with large exposed compression springs to absorb bumps.
HISTORY AND EVOLUTION
• Early Era:
Classic springers date back to Harley's early side valve models, including the I-beam springers used from 1930 through 1936, and later post-war designs like the 1948 Panhead.
• Modern Revival:
Harley-Davidson brought back and redesigned the iconic Springer Softail (FXSTS) in 1988 for its 85th anniversary.
• Later Models post-1948 hydraulic forks:
The retro Heritage Springer (FLSTS) debuted in 1997, and the line eventually concluded with models like the 2011 Crossbones.
DESIGN AND MECHANICS
• rigid lower leg sprung rocker arm two coil springs
• firm direct ride distinctive profile
MAINTENANCE AND RIDE
• periodic greasing Zerk fittings
• firmer than hydraulic forks
COMPATIBLE MODELS
• Big Twins 1949-2017
• Sportsters 1982-2003 Part 36652
• Ironhead
• Custom Frames
KEY FITMENT CONSIDERATIONS
• Neck Bearings 1in OD Timken
• Axle and Brakes 3/4in OD brake rod right rear 5/8in hole
• Handlebar Risers 4-3/4in centers 1/2-20
HOW FORK LENGTH CHANGES ARE MADE
• measured bottom lower triple tree to axle
• longer raises front more rake
• shorter drops front tightens geometry
CRITICAL SAFETY AND GEOMETRY FACTORS
• confirm fork length for rake and trail
• excessive length unsafe handling
• torque all pivot pins
• professional installation recommended
CORE FITMENT SPECIFICATIONS
• 1in OD steering stem Timken
• 3/4in OD axle
• 8-3/4in rocker spacing
• 4-3/4in riser centres 1/2-20
• brake mount right rear 5/8in
• rake 0 degrees
Yes, but older models or non-Springer frames may require neck bearing conversions, different steering stems, or cup kits (e.g., converting early Sportster narrow necks to fit a 1-inch stem)
Yes, it is standard practice to install fresh Timken bearings and races because old lower bearings usually get damaged during removal
Traditional Springer riser mounts use a wider center-to-center spacing (typically 4-3/4 inches) compared to standard 3-1/2 inch T-bar/riser setups. Adapter brackets or custom top clamps are needed if you want narrow handlebars
Springer front ends offer a distinct, retro ride feel. They can transmit more feedback from sharp bumps into the handlebars and require a bit more attention tracking grooves or rough pavement
• Regularly grease the rocker bushings, pivot points, and neck bearings.
• Inspect the spring rods and top springs for wear, play, or reduced tension.
• Check all acorn nuts, rocker bolts, and pinch bolts for proper torque specifications to prevent loose steering or wobbles
Stock vintage-style replacement springers usually measure around 20 to 23 inches from the bottom of the lower tree to the axle center, matching original factory geometries (like FL or FXST specs)
Many aftermarket vintage springers feature universal brake rod or caliper mounts on the right or left rear leg, though you must match the caliper bracket to your specific wheel and rotor setup