Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Owners, Technicians, Enthusiasts performing maintenance and repairs
Key Competitors:
Indian Scout, Triumph Bonneville, Ducati Scrambler, Yamaha Bolt
Styling:
Retro, Minimalist, Fat Tire, Peanut Fuel Tank
Engine Family:
Evolution V-Twin
Handlebar Style:
H-D Drag-style Handlebar
Engine:
Evolution 1200cc V-Twin, Carburetor/Fuel Injection, Ignition, Lubrication, Cooling (Air)
Transmission:
5-Speed Constant Mesh (T-Series), Clutch, Gearbox Internals, Primary Drive
Chassis:
Frame, Swingarm, Front Suspension (Telescopic Fork), Rear Suspension (Shock Absorbers), Wheels, Bearings
Brakes:
Front Disc Brake System, Rear Disc Brake System, Master Cylinders, Calipers, Lines, Pads, Rotors
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Battery, Charging System (Stator, Regulator/Rectifier), Ignition System, Lighting System, Horn, Starter Motor, Switches, Instrumentation
Fuel System:
Fuel Tank, Fuel Pump (EFI), Injectors (EFI), Carburetor (if applicable), Fuel Lines, Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP)
Exhaust:
Exhaust System Components, Mufflers, Heat Shields
Bodywork:
Fenders, Fuel Tank (12.5L/3.3 US gal Peanut Tank), Seat, Handlebars, Mirrors, Pegs/Footboards, Control Levers
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Charts, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Clutch Adjustment, Brake Bleeding, Chain Adjustment (if applicable to model variant)
Repair:
Engine Disassembly & Reassembly, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Servicing, Brake System Repairs, Electrical Component Replacement, Fuel System Servicing
Troubleshooting:
Symptom-Based Diagnostics, Component Testing, Electrical Circuit Analysis
Technical Data:
Torque Specifications, Clearances, Component Measurements, Wiring Schematics
Depth Level:
Factory-Level Repair and Rebuild Procedures
Searchability:
Searchable Text Content
Printability:
Printable Pages
Document Quality:
High Resolution, Factory Original Quality
Binding Type For Physical Copy:
Not Applicable (Digital PDF)
Paper Type For Physical Copy:
Not Applicable (Digital PDF)
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Evolution V-twin
Displacement:
1200 cc (73.4 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.43 in x 4.00 in (87.1 mm x 101.6 mm)
Valve Train:
Pushrod-actuated, overhead valves with two valves per cylinder
Horsepower Est:
Approximately 65-70 HP @ 5600 RPM (Manufacturer data may vary)
Torque Est:
Approximately 71 ft-lbs @ 3500 RPM (Manufacturer data may vary)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) - Twin Cam 103 models utilized this. Sportster XL1200X for 2016 would typically use a carburetor or earlier EFI system depending on market. Assuming EFI for comprehensive manual coverage. Actual 2016 models often featured a 1200cc Evolution engine, which in this era was typically fuel injected. Check manual for specific variant.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (R+M)/2 (95 RON)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Constant Mesh
Primary Drive:
Duplex chain, 1.17 ratio, clutch center with integrated transmission pulley shaft
Final Drive:
Belt Drive, 48/70 ratio (2.22:1)
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate, assists & slip
Gear Ratios:
1st: 10.110, 2nd: 7.194, 3rd: 5.043, 4th: 3.916, 5th: 3.137 (Typical for 5-speed Sportster)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ (or equivalent GL-4 SAE 75W-90)
Crash Test Ratings:
Motorcycles are not typically rated by NHTSA or IIHS in the same manner as passenger cars. Safety is primarily determined by rider skill and adherence to road safety practices.
Brakes:
Front and Rear Disc Brakes (ABS typically optional or not available on this specific model/year, check VIN)
Lighting:
Halogen Headlamp, LED Tail/Stop Lamp, Front/Rear Turn Signals
Frame Construction:
Steel, welded, mild steel tubing; mild steel forged, U-shaped, and cast sections
Instrumentation:
Analog speedometer with LCD odometer/trip odometer, indicator lamps. Tachometer often optional or integrated into a separate gauge.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature for 2016 models. Consult the manual and VIN to confirm if equipped.
Connectivity Features:
No integrated smartphone connectivity (e.g., Apple CarPlay/Android Auto) on this model. Basic vehicle systems managed via handlebar switches and ignition.
First Service:
1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months
Subsequent Service:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months thereafter
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 (20W-50 Full Synthetic) or Screamin' Eagle 20W-50; check manual for specific ambient temperature recommendations.
Engine Oil Capacity:
3.0 US qt (2.8 L) (with filter change)
Transmission Oil:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ or SAE 75W-90 GL-4
Transmission Oil Capacity:
0.95 US qt (0.9 L)
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ or SAE 75W-90 GL-4
Primary Chain Case Oil Capacity:
0.95 US qt (0.9 L)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (Check specific reservoir markings, ABS models may have specific requirements)
Fork Oil:
Harley-Davidson Type E (10W) or equivalent
Common Issues Potential:
Cam chain tensioner wear (early models, addressed in later revisions), primary compensator issues, starter solenoid failures, electrical connector corrosion, fuel line leaks (older models), clutch cable adjustment/wear. Refer to manual for specific diagnostic procedures.
Oil Filter Example:
Harley-Davidson 63731-39B (for Evolution Sportster)
Air Filter Example:
Harley-Davidson 29043-00A (for Evolution Sportster models with appropriate intake)
Spark Plug Example:
H-D recommends specific spark plugs for the 1200cc Evolution engine; consult the manual for the exact part number based on VIN and engine build.
Brand History:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer known for its cruiser, touring, and custom motorcycles.
Sportster Lineage:
The Sportster line, introduced in 1957, is one of the longest-running motorcycle nameplates in history, evolving from its early British-inspired designs to the modern V-twin platform.
Forty Eight Introduction:
The Forty-Eight model, characterized by its distinctive peanut fuel tank and fat front tire, was introduced to the Sportster lineup in 2010, paying homage to classic Harley-Davidson designs.
Manufacturing Location:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA / Kansas City, Missouri, USA
