Market Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle, Performance Cruiser
Competitors 2008:
Triumph Bonneville, Indian Chief, custom motorcycles, other Japanese cruisers with performance focus
Model Differentiation:
Sportster 1200R Roadster emphasizes a sportier ride and handling compared to other Sportster models, often featuring dual front disc brakes (on some configurations) and a more aggressive riding position.
Vibration Damping:
Engine isolation mounting system for reduced vibration transfer to the rider
Handling:
Designed for a balance of comfortable cruising and responsive handling.
Engine:
Evolution 1200cc V-Twin (Engine overhaul, tuning, diagnosis)
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Keihin CV 40mm), fuel delivery, fuel tank and lines
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition, timing, sensors, troubleshooting
Transmission:
5-Speed Constant Mesh, clutch operation, gearbox overhaul, lubrication
Drivetrain:
Belt Drive System (Primary and Final Drive), maintenance, inspection
Suspension:
Front Forks (Telescopic, 39mm), Rear Shocks (Twin), disassembly, overhaul, fluid specifications
Brakes:
Front Disc (4-piston caliper), Rear Disc (2-piston caliper), brake system service, bleeding, pad replacement
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), lighting, starter motor, switches, controls
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel bearing inspection/replacement, tire pressure, rim specifications
Frame And Bodywork:
Frame inspection, body panel removal/installation, handlebars, controls, seat, fenders
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic codes (if applicable to 2008 EFI models, though this is typically carburetor), common issues and solutions
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement, spark plug service, chain adjustment, battery care
Repair:
Engine rebuild (top-end and bottom-end), transmission disassembly/reassembly, carburetor overhaul, brake caliper rebuild, fork seal replacement
Troubleshooting:
Systematic fault finding for engine performance, electrical issues, starting problems
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Evolution V-Twin
Displacement:
1200 cc (73.2 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.496 in x 3.811 in (88.8 mm x 96.8 mm)
Horsepower Est:
Approx. 65-70 HP @ 5500 RPM (rear wheel)
Torque Est:
Approx. 70-75 ft-lbs @ 3500 RPM (rear wheel)
Fuel Delivery:
Keihin CV 40mm Carburetor
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (AKI)
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson 20W-50 or equivalent motorcycle-specific oil
Oil Capacity:
3.0 US qt (2.8 L) with filter change
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual, Constant Mesh
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate, diaphragm spring
Primary Drive:
Duplex chain, 34/49 tooth (1.44:1 ratio)
Final Drive:
Belt, 32/65 tooth (2.03:1 ratio)
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Syn-3 Transmission Lubricant or equivalent V-twin transmission fluid
Transmission Oil Capacity:
2.6 US qt (2.5 L)
Engine Oil Change:
Every 2,500 miles (4,000 km) or 6 months
Transmission Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months
Primary Chaincase Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months
Air Filter Inspection:
Every 2,500 miles (4,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km)
Belt Drive Inspection:
Every 2,500 miles (4,000 km)
Engine Oil Viscosity:
20W-50
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Syn-3 Transmission Lubricant or equivalent
Primary Chaincase Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson primary chaincase lubricant or equivalent
Carburetor Tuning:
CV carburetor may require periodic adjustment or cleaning for optimal performance and idle stability.
Belt Drive Tension:
Maintaining correct belt tension is crucial to prevent premature wear of the belt and pulleys.
Charging System:
Potential for regulator/rectifier failure over time; common across many Harley-Davidson models of this era.
Fork Seals:
Fork seals can wear and leak, requiring replacement as part of routine maintenance.
Brand Legacy:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer known for its V-twin engines and distinctive styling.
Sportster Lineage:
The Sportster line dates back to 1957, evolving significantly over the decades. The 1200cc Evolution engine, introduced in the late 1980s, has been a staple.
Xl Series Platform:
The XL platform has continuously adapted, receiving fuel injection on some models in later years (though 2008 Roadster typically uses a carburetor), updated suspension, and chassis refinements.
Manufacturing Location:
United States
Production Years For Xl1200R:
The XL 1200R was produced from 2004 to 2009.
