Market Segment:
Cruiser/Sportbike Hybrid Motorcycle
Key Competitors:
Varies by specific Sportster model variant (e.g., 883cc vs 1200cc), but generally competed with Japanese cruisers and other Harley-Davidson models.
Powertrain:
Evolution V-twin engine, known for its torque and distinctive Harley-Davidson sound.
Chassis:
Relatively lightweight and nimble chassis compared to larger Harley-Davidson touring models.
Customization:
Highly popular platform for customization and personalization.
Engine:
Complete overhaul, troubleshooting, component inspection, tuning
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Keihin CV) or Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) systems, fuel pump, lines, tank service
Ignition System:
Ignition module, coils, spark plugs, wiring
Transmission:
Clutch, gearbox, primary drive, final drive belt
Frame And Suspension:
Frame inspection, front fork overhaul, rear shock absorber service
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, hydraulic lines, calipers, master cylinders, rotor service
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, lighting, starter, switches, diagnostic codes (if applicable)
Bodywork And Fittings:
Body panels, fenders, seat, handlebars, controls, exhaust system
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain/belt adjustment, brake fluid flush, spark plug replacement, tune-ups
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based problem solving
Repair:
Component replacement, engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, electrical repairs
Installation:
Accessory installation, component upgrades (where applicable)
Depth:
Comprehensive (covers basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds and electrical diagnostics)
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, Evolution engine
Engine Displacement:
Commonly 883cc (XLH883) or 1200cc (XLH1200) for the Sportster line. Specific XLH designation may refer to a base model or a specific variant, often 1200cc.
Bore X Stroke:
XLH1200: 3.50 in x 3.81 in (88.9 mm x 96.8 mm); XLH883: 3.00 in x 3.81 in (76.2 mm x 96.8 mm)
Compression Ratio:
Typically around 9.0:1 to 9.7:1 depending on the specific 1200cc variant.
Valve Train:
Overhead Valves (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
Approx. 65-70 HP for 1200cc models (at crankshaft, subject to specific configuration)
Torque:
Approx. 70-75 lb-ft for 1200cc models (at crankshaft, subject to specific configuration)
Carburetor Model:
Keihin CV (Constant Velocity) 40mm for most 2006 models, unless it's an early EFI variant. (Important to confirm exact model variant)
Fuel Capacity:
Typically 3.1 US gallons (11.7 liters) or 4.5 US gallons (17 liters) depending on the fuel tank style fitted.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane (91 AKI)
Type:
5-speed constant mesh
Primary Drive:
Duplex chain, 34/46 ratio
Final Drive:
Belt drive, 29/65 ratio (subject to model variant)
Optional Transmissions:
None standard for this model year/platform.
Clutch:
Wet, multi-plate, manual engagement
Overall Length:
Varies by model variant (e.g., 88.4 in / 2245 mm for a typical 1200cc model)
Wheelbase:
Typically 60.0 in / 1524 mm
Ground Clearance:
Approximately 4.5 in / 114 mm
Dry Weight:
Around 525 lbs / 238 kg (varies by model variant)
Gvwr:
Not typically specified as a distinct figure, but payload capacity is important.
Payload Capacity:
Typically rated for rider and passenger up to a combined weight of around 350-400 lbs (159-181 kg), consult specific model details.
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycles are not subject to standardized crash test ratings like passenger cars).
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes front and rear. ABS was not standard or widely available on Sportsters in 2006.
Lighting:
Headlight, tail light, brake light, turn signals.
Instrumentation:
Analog speedometer, tachometer (on some models), odometer, trip meter, indicator lights for turn signals, oil pressure, engine diagnostics, etc.
ABS:
ABS was not standard on 2006 Sportster models.
Bluetooth:
Not applicable for this model year.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 2,500-5,000 miles (4,000-8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for exact interval and oil type.
Primary Chain Tensioner Check:
Recommended check at regular intervals (e.g., 5,000-10,000 miles) as it's a known wear item.
Belt Tension Check:
Recommended check at regular intervals (e.g., 5,000 miles) and lubrication if specified.
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson Genuine V-Twin Synthetic Motor Oil 20W-50, or equivalent SAE 20W-50 motorcycle-specific oil meeting Harley-Davidson specifications.
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Primary Chain Case Oil, or SAE 90W gear oil meeting API GL-4 specification.
Transmission Oil:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Formula + Transmission Oil, or SAE 80W-90 gear oil meeting API GL-5 specification (check manual for precise spec).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 brake fluid.
Primary Chain Tensioner:
The stock spring-loaded primary chain tensioner can wear out and cause noise or damage. Upgraded hydraulic tensioners are common replacements.
Carburetor Tuning:
Stock Keihin CV carburetors may require tuning for optimal performance, especially after modifications or at altitude.
Electrical Connectors:
Corrosion or loose connections on various electrical components can cause intermittent issues.
Brand Origins:
Harley-Davidson Motor Company, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer.
Sportster Lineage:
The Sportster line, introduced in 1957, has been a staple in Harley-Davidson's lineup, evolving from the Ironhead engine to the Evolution engine by 1986. The 2006 models represent a mature iteration of the Evolution Sportster.
Manufacturing Location:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA (and sometimes Kansas City, Missouri, USA for certain components/assembly).
