Market Segment:
Cruiser motorcycle, catering to riders seeking classic styling with modern performance. A popular model within Harley-Davidson's Sportster line.
Competitors:
Competes with other mid-size cruisers from brands like Indian, Triumph, and potentially some Japanese manufacturers in a similar displacement class.
Distinctive Features:
Low seat height, chopped fenders, blacked-out components, fuel-injected V-twin engine, classic Sportster profile.
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Format:
Digital (Likely PDF, Searchable)
Page Count:
Estimated 400-600 pages (typical for this model's comprehensive coverage)
Model Year Coverage:
Specifically 2008 Harley-Davidson XL 1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster
Engine:
Evolution 1200cc V-Twin, including disassembly, assembly, inspection, and component testing.
Fuel System:
EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection), throttle body, injectors, fuel pump, pressure regulator, diagnostics.
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition, spark plugs, coils, sensors, timing.
Transmission:
5-speed gearbox, clutch, primary drive, final drive, lubrication.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), starting system (starter motor, solenoid), lighting, instrumentation, ECM.
Chassis:
Frame, steering head, suspension (front fork, rear shocks), wheels, bearings, brakes (front and rear disc), control cables.
Bodywork:
Fuel tank, fenders, seat, handlebars, controls, exhaust system, fasteners.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, brake fluid changes, lubrication, inspection checklists.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical diagnostics, engine performance issues.
Repair:
Component overhaul, rebuild procedures, replacement instructions for all major systems.
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), sensor readings, ECM data interpretation (where applicable for the year).
Component Rebuilds:
Detailed procedures for engine component rebuilds (e.g., top end, bottom end), transmission overhaul, and brake caliper service.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic adjustments to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed specifications and tolerances.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Evolution V-twin
Displacement:
1200cc (73.2 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.50 in x 3.81 in (88.9 mm x 96.8 mm)
Horsepower:
Approximately 67 hp @ 5,750 rpm (factory estimate)
Torque:
Approximately 70 ft-lb @ 3,500 rpm (factory estimate)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (RON+MON)/2
Throttle Body Size:
40mm Delphi Electronic Throttle Control
Safety Standards:
Meets or exceeds all applicable US federal motor vehicle safety standards (FMVSS) for motorcycles.
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes, front and rear. Dual piston front caliper, single piston rear caliper.
Wheel Type:
Cast aluminum, 13-spoke (typically)
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED tail lamp, incandescent turn signals.
Infotainment System:
Base model, typically no integrated infotainment system beyond analog gauges (speedometer, tachometer, fuel level) and indicator lights.
Safety Features:
Standard safety features include robust braking system and compliant suspension. No electronic rider aids like ABS or traction control typically offered as standard on this specific year/model.
Connectivity Options:
No inherent connectivity features. Aftermarket solutions for smartphone integration or GPS are available.
Initial Service:
First service typically at 1,000 miles (1,600 km).
Regular Maintenance:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first. Includes oil, filter, belt inspection, brake check, etc.
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 (SAE 20W-50) or equivalent motorcycle-specific synthetic oil meeting Harley-Davidson specifications.
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Harley-Davidson Primary Chaincase Lubricant (P/N 99824-00) or equivalent SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear lubricant.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 brake fluid (for hydraulic clutch and brakes, if equipped).
Fork Oil:
Harley-Davidson Formula +, or equivalent 15W fork oil.
Transmission Oil Capacity:
24 fl oz (0.7 L)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, belt drive, front fork seals, rear shock absorber seals, wheel bearings, exhaust gaskets.
Electrical Gremlins:
Wiring harness integrity, particularly around the steering head and under the seat, can be a common area for inspection due to vibration.
Fuel System Notes:
While generally reliable, EFI system sensors (e.g., MAP, TPS, O2) can occasionally require diagnosis or replacement.
Brand Legacy:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer known for its cruisers, touring bikes, and distinctive V-twin engines.
Sportster Lineage:
The Sportster family dates back to 1957, evolving from earlier British-inspired designs to the rubber-mounted Evolution engine platform common today. The Nightster model was introduced as a more contemporary, stripped-down take on the Sportster.
Production Location:
United States (Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and potentially Kansas City, Missouri assembly plants).
