Positioning:
Cruiser segment, touring-oriented Sportster variant, appealing to riders seeking comfort and style for longer rides
Competitors:
Other mid-size cruisers from manufacturers like Indian (Scout), Honda (Shadow), Yamaha (Bolt), Kawasaki (Vulcan) with similar displacement and touring features.
Xl1200T Features:
Lower seat height, adjustable front and rear suspension, removable windscreen, saddlebags, cruise control (often standard or available), ergonomic seating position designed for comfort and touring.
Value:
Provides in-depth technical knowledge for owners and independent mechanics, enabling confident DIY maintenance and repairs, potentially saving significant costs compared to dealership services.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Maintenance, and Repair
Estimated Page Count:
Likely 400-600+ pages (typical for Harley-Davidson service manuals of this era)
Type:
Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Format:
Likely Printed or Digital (PDF)
Engine:
Disassembly, inspection, assembly, troubleshooting, tuning
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (EFI), throttle body, fuel pump, fuel filter, injectors
Ignition System:
Ignition module, spark plugs, ignition coils, wiring
Transmission And Drivetrain:
Clutch, primary drive, transmission, final drive belt, wheel bearings
Chassis And Suspension:
Frame, front fork (2016 models often use 49mm telescopic forks), rear shock absorbers, swingarm
Brakes:
Front and rear brake calipers, master cylinders, brake lines, brake pads, brake fluid
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), lighting, starter motor, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays
Bodywork And Trim:
Fenders, fuel tank, seat, handlebars, fairings (if applicable), instrumentation
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel installation, tire pressure, tire replacement
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Fault code interpretation, diagnostic procedures, common problems and solutions
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication), inspections
Repair:
Component removal, installation, adjustment, overhaul
Disassembly And Assembly:
Complete teardown and reassembly of major components
Calibration And Adjustment:
Throttle cable adjustment, clutch adjustment, suspension settings
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic servicing to complete engine rebuilds and electrical system diagnostics
Digital Format:
PDF (most common for digital versions), often searchable
Print Quality:
High-resolution images, diagrams, and text (if printed professionally)
Binding Type:
Spiral-bound or perfect-bound (for printed manuals), facilitating lay-flat use
Paper Type:
Durable, possibly coated paper to withstand workshop environments
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Evolution V-Twin
Displacement:
72.3 cu in (1199.8 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.51 in x 3.81 in (89.4 mm x 96.8 mm)
Compression Ratio:
9.7:1 (typical for this engine)
Valvetrain:
Overhead valves (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder, pushrod actuated
Horsepower:
Approx. 67 hp @ 5600 rpm (manufacturer's estimate, actual may vary)
Torque:
Approx. 71 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (manufacturer's estimate, actual may vary)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium unleaded gasoline, 91 octane or higher recommended
Oil Capacity:
3.0 US qt (2.8 L) with filter change (refer to manual for exact capacity)
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson V-Twin Synthetic SAE 20W-50 or equivalent JASO FD, API SG approved motorcycle oil
Type:
6-speed Cruise Drive
Gear Ratios:
Refer to manual for specific ratios, but designed for highway cruising and strong acceleration.
Clutch Type:
Clutch type: Wet, multi-plate
Final Drive:
Belt drive, 25mm wide
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ Transmission & Primary Chaincase Lubricant (or equivalent H-D approved oil)
Primary Chaincase Capacity:
Approx. 2.75 US qt (2.6 L) (refer to manual for exact capacity)
ABS:
Available (check specific model configuration), typically as an option or standard on certain markets/trims.
Braking System:
Dual-piston front and rear calipers, with optional ABS.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED tail light, turn signals.
Ergonomics:
Low seat height and swept-back handlebars contribute to rider confidence and control, especially for shorter riders.
Instrumentation:
Analog speedometer with integrated digital tachometer, gear indicator, fuel gauge, clock, and diagnostic indicators.
Cruise Control:
Standard on XL 1200T SuperLow model, enhancing long-distance comfort.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System for enhanced safety.
Diagnostic Ports:
ECM diagnostic connector allowing connection to H-D Digital Technician for fault code reading and analysis.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (typical for H-D synthetic oil). Refer to manual for exact interval.
Primary Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles or 12 months (typical). Refer to manual for exact interval.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Inspect every 5,000 miles, clean or replace as needed. Refer to manual.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically at 10,000 or 15,000 mile intervals. Refer to manual for exact specification and type (e.g., NGK DCPR7E).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (refer to manual for specific recommendation, DOT 5 silicone fluid is not compatible with DOT 4/5.1 systems).
Fork Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson genuine fork oil (e.g., 15W) or equivalent. Manual will specify viscosity and quantity.
Common Sportster Considerations:
Occasional reports of cam chain tensioner wear (pre-2019 models, though updated), charging system output variations, and exhaust pipe discoloration. Manual will provide diagnostic steps.
Fuel System Considerations:
EFI systems are generally reliable, but potential issues include sensor failures (MAP, O2) or injector clogging. Manual will detail troubleshooting.
Harley Davidson Heritage:
Founded in 1903, Harley-Davidson is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer renowned for its V-twin engines, distinctive styling, and a strong rider community.
Sportster Lineage:
The Sportster family has been in continuous production since 1957, evolving from sporty lightweight bikes to more powerful cruisers. The XL 1200T SuperLow represents a refinement for touring and comfort within the Sportster line.
Manufacturing Location:
Generally assembled at Harley-Davidson's York, Pennsylvania, and Kansas City, Missouri facilities.
