Positioning:
The Harley-Davidson XL1200C Sportster Custom is a classic American cruiser known for its V-twin engine, iconic styling, and accessible performance, appealing to riders seeking a quintessential Harley-Davidson experience.
Competitors:
Competes with models from Indian Motorcycles (Scout line), Triumph (Bonneville series), and other custom-styled cruisers in the middleweight to large displacement category.
Features:
Iconic Sportster styling, 1200cc Evolution V-twin engine, custom aesthetics with chrome accents, comfortable riding position, and a rich heritage of customization.
Engine:
Engine disassembly, assembly, inspection, tuning, troubleshooting, lubrication system, cooling system (air-cooled), fuel system (carbureted), ignition system, starting system, charging system.
Transmission:
Clutch, gearbox (5-speed constant mesh), primary drive system, final drive (belt drive), lubrication, maintenance, repair, troubleshooting.
Chassis:
Frame, suspension (front fork, rear shock absorbers), steering system, wheel assembly, braking system (front and rear), tire information.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, battery, ignition, lighting, instrumentation, switches, fuses, relays, diagnostic connectors, charging system, starter system.
Bodywork:
Fuel tank, fenders, seat, handlebars, controls, mirrors, exhaust system, appearance items, trim.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, chain adjustment, brake service, tire inspection and replacement, battery maintenance.
Repair:
Complete engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension servicing, brake caliper rebuilding, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, carburetor overhaul, fuel system diagnostics.
Troubleshooting:
System-specific diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical diagnostic procedures, engine performance issues, starting problems, braking system faults.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Evolution V-twin
Displacement:
1199 cc (73.2 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.50 in x 3.81 in (88.9 mm x 96.8 mm)
Horsepower:
Approximately 66 HP @ 5800 RPM (Manufacturer's claim, subject to market variation)
Torque:
Approximately 70 ft-lb @ 3500 RPM (Manufacturer's claim, subject to market variation)
Fuel Delivery:
Keihin CV (Constant Velocity) 40mm carburetor
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 (Full Synthetic) SAE 20W50 Motorcycle Oil or equivalent API CG-4 rated diesel engine oil.
Oil Capacity:
3.0 US qt (2.8 L) with filter change
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition with single fire, coil-on-plug (COP) design.
Spark Plugs:
Harley-Davidson recommended: NGK DCPR8E or equivalent.
Transmission Type:
5-speed, constant mesh, sequential, sliding gear
Primary Drive:
Plated, off-set drive chain, 1.4375:1 ratio.
Final Drive:
Belt drive, 32/66 tooth ratio (0.4848:1)
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson FORMULA+ Transmission & Primary Chaincase Lubricant or equivalent. SAE 80W-90 GL-5 gear oil for transmission (if separate).
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Primary chaincase: 2.8 US qt (2.6 L) (includes gearbox and clutch)
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety is assessed differently, focus on design and component integrity)
Braking System:
Dual-piston front caliper with 300mm disc, Dual-piston rear caliper with 260mm disc. Designed for responsive braking.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED tail lamp, incandescent turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Steel tubular frame and swingarm providing robust structural integrity.
Tire Design:
Bias-ply or radial construction tires providing grip and stability.
Instrumentation:
Analog speedometer with integrated odometer, tachometer (optional or on some models), fuel gauge, and indicator lights. Basic LCD display for odometer, trip meter, and clock.
Rider Aids:
No advanced electronic rider aids (e.g., ABS, traction control) are standard on this model. Braking performance relies on rider input and mechanical systems.
Connectivity Features:
N/A (No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity)
First Service:
1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Subsequent Service:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 2,500 miles (4,000 km) or 6 months (for standard oil), or 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months (for synthetic oil).
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 20W-50
Transmission Primary Oil:
Harley-Davidson FORMULA+ or SAE 80W-90 GL-5
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (check master cylinder cap for specific recommendation)
Common Complaints:
Early models may experience carburation tuning issues, vibration at idle, potential oil leaks at gaskets, and clutch adjustment needs. Primary drive chain adjustment is crucial.
Specific Part Concerns:
Check for proper stator and regulator/rectifier function to prevent electrical issues. Carburetor jetting may need adjustment based on altitude and riding style.
Brand Legacy:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer renowned for its V-twin engines, distinctive sound, and a culture of freedom and rebellion.
Sportster Lineage:
The Sportster line, introduced in 1957, is Harley-Davidson's longest-running model. It has evolved significantly over the decades, transitioning from overhead valve (OHV) engines to the modern Evolution engine.
Xl1200C Development:
The XL1200C ('Custom') variant emerged to offer a more stylized and feature-rich Sportster, often including larger front wheels, custom paint schemes, and additional chrome. The 2008 model represents a mature iteration of this design.
Manufacturing Location:
United States
