Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Riders seeking a comfortable, accessible cruiser with classic Harley-Davidson styling and performance.
Key Competitors:
Indian Scout, Honda Shadow series, Yamaha V-Star series, Suzuki Boulevard series.
Design Philosophy:
Low seat height for rider confidence and stability, accessible controls, iconic Sportster styling.
Distinguishing Factors:
Specifically tuned for a lower rider profile, making it more approachable for a wider range of riders.
Engine:
1200cc Evolution V-Twin (96 cid), fuel injection, ignition, lubrication, cooling, exhaust
Transmission:
5-speed constant mesh, clutch, primary drive, final drive (belt)
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, hydraulic system, caliper service
Suspension:
Front telescopic forks (39mm), rear dual shock absorbers, damping adjustments
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, ignition system, lighting, starter motor, instrumentation, wiring diagrams
Fuel System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), fuel pump, injectors, throttle body, EVAP system
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, brake fluid service, chain adjustment (if applicable to model variant, though belt drive is standard)
Repair:
Engine internal repairs, transmission overhauls, suspension fork rebuilds, brake system repairs, electrical component replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting procedures for common and intermittent faults, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation for EFI systems
Assembly Disassembly:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal and installation
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic service to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and troubleshooting trees.
Format Details:
Searchable PDF, printable pages, high-resolution images and diagrams.
Quality:
Excellent - Clear text, sharp images, and legible diagrams.
Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Evolution V-twin
Displacement:
1200cc (73.3 cu. in.)
Bore X Stroke:
3.500 in. x 3.812 in. (88.9 mm x 96.8 mm)
Valve Train:
Overhead valve (OHV), two valves per cylinder, pushrod actuated
Horsepower:
~65 hp @ 5500 RPM (est.)
Torque:
~71 lb-ft @ 3500 RPM (est.)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline
Oil Capacity:
3.0 US qt (2.8 L)
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 (SAE 20W-50) or equivalent API SG, Jaso MA rated motorcycle oil
Certification:
Meets applicable US EPA, DOT, and California ARB requirements.
Braking:
Dual-piston front caliper with 292mm disc, single-piston rear caliper with 292mm disc.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED taillight, amber incandescent turn signals.
Ergonomics:
Low seat height, forward-mounted foot controls designed for rider comfort and control.
Standard Features:
Basic analog speedometer, tachometer, odometer, trip meter, and indicator lights. No factory-installed infotainment system on this base model.
Features:
None (standard for this era and model class)
Features:
None (standard for this era and model class)
First Service:
1000 miles (1600 km) or 6 months
Subsequent Services:
Every 5000 miles (8000 km) or 12 months thereafter
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 (SAE 20W-50) or API SG, Jaso MA rated motorcycle oil
Transmission Oil:
Harley-Davidson Transmission Fluid (Syn-3 Recommended)
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Harley-Davidson Primary Chain Case Oil
Common Wear Items:
Drive belt, brake pads, tires, fork seals.
Potential Electronic Faults:
Occasional issues with sensor readings (e.g., speedometer, fuel level) or ignition module related diagnostics, often addressable with firmware updates or component replacement as detailed in the manual.
Founding:
Founded in 1903 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.A.
Iconic Status:
One of the most recognized and iconic motorcycle brands globally.
Sportster Introduction:
The Sportster line was first introduced in 1957.
Evolution Engine:
The Evolution engine was introduced in 1986, replacing the Shovelhead engine. The 1200cc variant became a staple.
Xl1200L Introduction:
The 'Low' variant was specifically introduced to cater to riders seeking easier ground reach, enhancing accessibility.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (Milwaukee, WI / Kansas City, MO)
