Positioning:
The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL 1200R Sportster Roadster is positioned as a classic, muscular cruiser with a strong emphasis on traditional styling and riding experience.
Competitors:
Competed with other V-twin cruisers in its displacement class from brands like Indian, Triumph, and Japanese manufacturers offering similar styles.
Styling:
Classic Sportster silhouette, dual front disc brakes, raised handlebars, forward foot controls, chrome accents.
Performance Focus:
Designed for accessible performance and comfortable cruising, distinguishing it from other Sportster variants.
Value:
Provides comprehensive factory-level technical data crucial for accurate maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting, enabling owners to maintain their motorcycle's performance and longevity.
Primary Coverage:
2008 Harley-Davidson XL 1200R Sportster 1200 Roadster
Estimated Pages:
Hundreds (specific count not provided in product description, assumed extensive)
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Format:
Printable (suggests digital format capable of selective printing)
Engine:
Complete engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly
Transmission:
Gearbox, clutch, and shifting mechanisms
Fuel System:
Carburetion (likely Keihin CV or similar), fuel delivery, fuel tank
Ignition System:
Ignition module, spark plugs, wiring
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, charging system, lighting, starting system, instruments
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, hydraulic components, calipers, rotors
Suspension:
Front fork (likely Showa or similar), rear shock absorbers, linkage (if applicable)
Chassis Frame:
Frame inspection, alignment, and repair
Bodywork:
Fenders, tank, seat, handlebars, controls
Wheels Tires:
Wheel bearings, spoke maintenance (if applicable), tire replacement
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication, chain adjustment (if applicable), brake checks
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair
Rebuilds:
Engine and transmission rebuild procedures
Diagnostics:
Electrical system diagnostics, component testing
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls
Digital Quality:
Assumed high-resolution for clear diagrams and text
Printability:
Designed for selective or full printing by the user
Binding Type:
N/A (digital format, user to print and bind)
Paper Type:
N/A (digital format, user to select paper type)
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Evolution V-twin
Displacement:
1202 cc (73.1 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
3.50 in x 3.81 in (88.9 mm x 96.8 mm)
Valve Train:
Overhead valve (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder, pushrod actuated
Horsepower:
Estimated 65-70 HP (specific factory rating may vary, typically derived from torque figures)
Torque:
Estimated 70-75 ft-lbs (at around 3500-4000 RPM)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (likely Keihin CV 40mm)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (AKI)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3.0 US quarts (2.8 liters) with filter change.
Engine Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 or equivalent SAE 20W-50 synthetic motorcycle oil.
Type:
5-speed constant mesh
Optional Transmissions:
N/A (5-speed was standard for this model year and variant)
Clutch:
Wet, multi-plate, hydraulic actuation
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approximately 2.5 US quarts (2.4 liters) of Harley-Davidson Formula + or equivalent transmission fluid.
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula + or equivalent API GL-4 SAE 80W-90 gear oil for transmission and primary drive.
Length:
Approx. 88.5 inches (2248 mm)
Width:
Approx. 32.5 inches (825 mm) handlebars
Height:
Approx. 47.0 inches (1194 mm) to top of handlebars
Seat Height:
Approx. 28.0 inches (711 mm) unladen
Dry Weight:
Approx. 567 lbs (257 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not explicitly stated in product data, typically around 900-1000 lbs for this class.
Cargo Capacity:
N/A (motorcycle, accessory luggage required)
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety is assessed differently than automobiles; focus on rider aids and system integrity).
Braking System:
Dual front disc brakes with hydraulic actuation, single rear disc brake.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED tail light and brake light, turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Steel cradle frame designed for stability and rider feedback.
Infotainment System:
Basic instrumentation: speedometer, tachometer (often optional or integrated), odometer, trip meter, fuel gauge, indicator lights.
Driver Aids:
Minimal; focus on rider control and mechanical feedback. No electronic rider aids like ABS or traction control were standard on this model.
First Service:
Typically 1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Subsequent Service:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months for routine inspections and fluid changes.
Major Service Intervals:
Details for tasks like valve adjustments, primary chain inspection, and spark plug replacement found within the manual, often around 10,000-15,000 mile intervals.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (check manual for specific system requirements, DOT 5 may be specified for older systems but is incompatible with DOT 4/5.1).
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Harley-Davidson Formula + or equivalent SAE 80W-90 gear oil.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, fork seal leaks, carburetor tuning, electrical connections, exhaust leaks.
Ignition Maintenance:
Spark plug replacement (e.g., NGK or Harley-Davidson branded plugs, gap specification required)
Drive Belt Maintenance:
Belt tension check and adjustment, inspection for wear and damage.
Heritage:
Harley-Davidson has a long and storied history dating back to 1903, synonymous with American motorcycle culture.
Sportster Lineage:
The Sportster line, introduced in 1957, is Harley-Davidson's longest-running model. The XL 1200R represents an evolution of this platform, emphasizing a traditional cruiser aesthetic with increased displacement.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (primarily Milwaukee, Wisconsin and Kansas City, Missouri for this era)
2008 Updates:
While major platform changes might not have occurred for 2008 specifically, this era of Sportsters saw refinements in fueling (transitioning to EFI on some models, but 1200R likely carbureted) and electrical systems.
Brand Awards:
Harley-Davidson is a recipient of numerous industry awards for its heritage, design, and quality over the decades.
Motorcycle Reviews:
The Sportster line consistently receives positive reviews for its handling, engine character, and authentic V-twin sound.
Manual Certification:
Factory authorized service manual, indicating it meets manufacturer standards for technical accuracy.
