Being new to H D ownership and having a 1996 standard for about a year now I am enjoying the bike I noticed the bike was what I thought a bit hot after riding for about 20 miles would this be norm,while polishing the other day I noticed a black dirt at the front lower part of the engine similar to a seep from a head gasket after being replaced but could see no mark of seepage anywhere else oil levels were okay.
This may be a silly question to ask but how are the H D cooled,what other basic information should I know to enjoy the bike during my retirement years thanks in advance for any advice

Harley Ds and Fender Strats
we have it all

 

hd is cooled by the oiul in the motor and the air that passes by the fins on the motor

 

You are wondering after owning it for a year?
I don't know what model a "1996 Standard" is....but you know what?
Sometimes a seal might leak....or "weep" a tiny bit.
If you do not see DROPS on the ground, you are fine and dandy.
If by chance you are noticing HIGHER than normal temps from your bike, you may indeed have an issue. You may want to purchase and oil temp. gage..and an owners manual.

 

HD engines are air cooled. The oil helps distribute the heat and add some cooling, especially with the use of an oil cooler. Remember bike must be moving to cool it. Hope this helps...