Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Target Demographic:
Riders seeking classic styling with modern performance and customization potential.
Key Competitors 2010:
Indian Chief, Victory Kingpin, Yamaha V-Star, Honda Shadow, Suzuki Boulevard
Customization:
The 'Custom' designation highlights its predisposition for personalization and aftermarket modifications.
Powertrain Emphasis:
Focus on the large displacement V-twin engine and its characteristic torque delivery.
Powertrain:
Engine, Transmission, Clutch, Final Drive
Chassis:
Frame, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (Front & Rear), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Ignition System, Lighting, Instruments, Gauges, Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Wiring Diagrams, ECU Functions
Bodywork:
Body Panels, Fuel System Components, Seat, Handlebars, Fenders
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures, Symptom Analysis, Fault Code Interpretation (if applicable)
Repair:
Component Disassembly, Reassembly, Adjustment, Replacement, Overhaul Procedures
Technical Data:
Torque Specifications, Clearances, Specifications for all Components
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and chassis component repairs.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Evolution V-twin
Displacement:
1200 cc (73.3 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.496 in x 3.813 in (88.8 mm x 96.8 mm)
Valve Train:
Pushrod-actuated, overhead valves with two valves per cylinder
Horsepower Estimate:
Approximately 65-70 HP (actual figures vary slightly by specific calibration)
Torque Estimate:
Approximately 70-75 ft-lbs @ 3500 RPM (actual figures vary slightly by specific calibration)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline, minimum 91 octane (AKI)
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil (or equivalent V-twin specific synthetic) SAE 20W-50
Oil Capacity:
3.0 US qt (2.8 L) with filter change
Type:
5-speed constant mesh
Clutch:
Clutched type, wet, multi-plate
Primary Drive:
Chain, 1.452:1 ratio
Final Drive:
Belt Drive, 2.75:1 ratio
Gear Ratios:
1st: 9.014, 2nd: 6.941, 3rd: 5.552, 4th: 4.749, 5th: 4.000
Transmission Fluid:
Harley-Davidson Transmission Fluid (or equivalent V-twin specific fluid) SAE 80W-90
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
24 US fl oz (0.71 L)
Certification:
DOT, EPA, CARB compliant for its respective market.
Brakes Front:
Dual-piston caliper, 300mm (11.8 in) floating disc
Brakes Rear:
Single-piston caliper, 260mm (10.2 in) disc
Suspension Front:
Telescopic fork, 49mm stanchions, 4.4 in (112 mm) travel
Suspension Rear:
Coil-over shock, preload-adjustable, 3.6 in (91 mm) travel
Lighting Headlight:
Halogen, 55W high beam, 55W low beam
Lighting Taillight:
Incandescent bulb
Instrumentation:
Analog speedometer with LCD odometer/tripmeter, tachometer (may be separate or integrated depending on exact trim), fuel gauge, and indicator lights.
ABS Availability:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature for the 2010 Sportster 1200 Custom. The manual will detail its operation and maintenance if equipped.
Diagnostic Port:
Diagnostic port for reading fault codes and retrieving engine data (e.g., J1850 VCI).
First Service:
1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Subsequent Service:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Spark Plugs:
Inspect at 5,000 miles, replace as needed or at recommended intervals (typically around 15,000-20,000 miles, refer to manual).
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil SAE 20W-50
Transmission Oil:
Harley-Davidson Transmission Fluid SAE 80W-90
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Harley-Davidson Primary Chain Case Oil (or equivalent primary lubricant) SAE 90
Fork Oil:
Refer to manual for specific weight (typically around 10W or 15W, but check for specific application)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, brake pads, wheel bearings, fork seals, and drive belt are typical wear items.
Potential Issues:
Leaks from primary or transmission seals, charging system issues (stator/regulator), and exhaust component corrosion can occur with age and mileage.
Software Updates:
The manual may cover procedures for checking and updating ECM software if applicable.
Legacy:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is synonymous with American motorcycle culture and has a long history of producing V-twin motorcycles.
Sportster Lineage:
The Sportster line, introduced in 1957, is Harley-Davidson's longest-running model line, evolving from its Ironhead and Shovelhead predecessors to the Evolution engine.
Custom Variant:
The 'Custom' variant typically features specific styling elements like a drag-style handlebar, forward controls, a custom seat, and often a different front fork angle or wheel size.
Manufacturing Location:
United States
Engine Introduction Year:
The Evolution engine (known as the 'Evo' engine) was introduced in 1984.
