Positioning:
Entry-level to mid-range cruiser motorcycle
Target Audience:
Riders seeking customization, classic styling, and accessible performance
Competitors:
Japanese cruisers (e.g., Yamaha Virago/V-Star, Honda Shadow, Kawasaki Vulcan), Indian motorcycles
Engine Layout:
V-twin, air-cooled
Frame Design:
Classic steel frame
Customization Potential:
High potential for aftermarket modifications
Heritage:
Long-standing Sportster lineage
Engine System:
Engine assembly, disassembly, troubleshooting, tuning, lubrication, cooling (air-cooled)
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Keihin CV), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank, emissions control
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition, spark plugs, coils, wiring
Transmission System:
5-speed gearbox, clutch assembly, primary drive, final drive belt
Brakes System:
Front and rear disc brakes, hydraulic system, caliper and master cylinder service
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, lighting, starter, gauges, switches
Suspension System:
Front forks (telescopic), rear shock absorbers, adjustment and service
Wheel Tire System:
Wheel bearing service, tire mounting and balancing
Frame Bodywork:
Frame inspection, body panel removal and installation, fenders, seat
Exhaust System:
Muffler and pipe replacement, gasket service
Basic Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment (if applicable), spark plug service
Scheduled Maintenance:
Detailed service intervals and tasks
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues
Engine Overhaul:
Top-end and bottom-end rebuilds, piston and ring replacement
Transmission Repair:
Gearbox disassembly, inspection, and reassembly
Carburetor Tuning:
Adjustment, cleaning, and rebuilding procedures
Electrical Diagnostics:
Fault finding using wiring diagrams and test procedures
Brake Service:
Brake pad replacement, fluid bleeding, caliper and master cylinder overhaul
Suspension Service:
Fork seal replacement, shock absorber service
Depth:
Complete overhaul and rebuild procedures
Diagnostics:
Advanced diagnostics and troubleshooting
Illustrations:
Clear, step-by-step illustrated instructions
Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications, clearances, and measurements
Engine Type:
Evolution V-Twin, 45-degree
Bore X Stroke 883:
3.00 in x 3.81 in (76.2 mm x 96.8 mm)
Bore X Stroke 1200:
3.49 in x 4.25 in (88.9 mm x 108 mm)
Displacement 883:
53.9 cu in (883 cc)
Displacement 1200:
73.2 cu in (1200 cc)
Compression Ratio 883:
8.4:1
Compression Ratio 1200:
9.0:1
Horsepower 883:
Approx. 50-55 HP (rated at crankshaft)
Horsepower 1200:
Approx. 65-70 HP (rated at crankshaft)
Torque 883:
Approx. 65-70 lb-ft @ 3500 RPM
Torque 1200:
Approx. 70-75 lb-ft @ 3500 RPM
Carburetor:
Keihin CV (Constant Velocity) 39mm
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 91 octane (R+M)/2 minimum recommended
Type:
5-speed constant mesh
Primary Drive:
Duplex chain, 2.294:1 ratio
Final Drive:
Belt drive, 32/66 tooth sprockets, 2.0625:1 ratio
Transmission Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson Syn3 (20W50) or equivalent API SG, Jaso FD approved motorcycle oil
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 2.7 U.S. qt (2.6 L)
Crash Test Rating:
N/A (Motorcycle safety is assessed differently than automobiles)
Brakes:
Dual front piston caliper with 292mm disc, single rear piston caliper with 292mm disc
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED tail light, incandescent front and rear turn signals
Frame Construction:
Steel tubular frame
Instrumentation:
Speedometer, tachometer (optional), indicator lights
Engine Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months
Primary Chain Tensioner Inspection:
Check at 1,000 mile service, adjust as needed
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km)
Drive Belt Tension:
Check at 5,000 mile intervals
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson 20W50 Syn3 or equivalent API SG, Jaso FD approved motorcycle oil
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.0 U.S. qt (2.8 L)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 approved brake fluid
Fork Oil:
Harley-Davidson Type E (SE 20W) or equivalent
Primary Chain Tensioner:
Automatic tensioner can wear out and cause noise/damage, often replaced with upgraded hydraulic tensioner (covered in manual).
Carburetor Tuning:
CV carburetor requires periodic adjustment and can be sensitive to altitude and modifications.
Carburetor Idle Speed:
Idle speed can be inconsistent if not properly adjusted.
Rear Shocks:
Stock shocks can be basic; many owners upgrade for improved ride quality.
Manufacturer:
Harley-Davidson Motor Company
Sportster Lineage:
First introduced in 1957, the Sportster has evolved significantly while retaining its core identity.
2007 Updates:
While core design is stable, the 2007 model year saw minor refinements and was part of the transition towards fuel injection on some later models.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (Milwaukee, WI / York, PA)
