Positioning:
The 2009 Harley Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom represents a mid-range cruiser offering in Harley's Sportster line, known for its classic styling, comfortable riding position, and approachable performance for a wide range of riders.
Competitors:
Competes with motorcycles such as the Indian Chief Dark Horse, Triumph Bonneville, and various Japanese cruiser models in a similar displacement class.
Features:
Iconic V-twin engine, classic styling cues (peanut tank, chrome accents), comfortable ergonomics for cruising, user-friendly maintenance.
Powertrain:
Engine (Evolution 1200cc V-Twin), Transmission (5-speed, constant mesh), Clutch, Final Drive.
Chassis:
Frame, Swingarm, Suspension (Front Forks, Rear Shocks), Wheels, Tires, Brakes (Front & Rear Disc).
Electrical System:
Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Battery, Wiring Diagrams.
Fuel System:
Fuel Injection (EFI), Fuel Tank, Fuel Pump, Fuel Lines.
Body And Trim:
Body Panels, Fenders, Seat, Handlebars, Controls, Mirrors, Exhaust System.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, brake fluid changes, fork oil changes, lubrication.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common faults, electrical system troubleshooting, engine performance issues.
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine disassembly and reassembly, transmission overhaul, clutch service, brake caliper repair, fork seal replacement.
Installation And Adjustment:
Component installation, cable adjustments, belt tensioning, suspension adjustments.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic inspections and adjustments to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagrams and specifications.
File Type:
Portable Document Format (PDF)
Searchable:
Likely searchable text content for quick information retrieval.
Printability:
High-resolution images and text for clear printing.
Binding:
Not applicable for PDF format (digital delivery).
Paper:
Not applicable for PDF format (digital delivery).
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Evolution V-twin
Displacement:
1200cc (73.4 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.496 in x 4.250 in (88.8 mm x 108 mm)
Valve Train:
Pushrod actuated, overhead valves (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
Approx. 65-70 HP (at crankshaft, estimated for the era)
Torque:
Approx. 71-75 ft-lbs @ 3500 RPM (at crankshaft, estimated for the era)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium unleaded gasoline, 91 octane or higher recommended.
Length:
Approx. 89.3 in (2268 mm)
Width:
Approx. 37.6 in (955 mm)
Height:
Approx. 46.7 in (1186 mm) (at handlebar)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 60.0 in (1524 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 4.4 in (112 mm)
Seat Height:
Approx. 28.1 in (714 mm) (laden)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 556 lbs (252 kg)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 593 lbs (269 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not explicitly specified, but typical for this class.
Fuel Tank Capacity:
4.5 US gallons (17.0 liters)
Safety Features:
Standard ABS optional on some models. Designed for stable highway and city cruising.
Brakes:
Front: 4-piston, hydraulic, dual-action, 300mm disc. Rear: 2-piston, hydraulic, dual-action, 260mm disc.
Suspension:
Front: 39mm forks with gaiters. Rear: Chrome, coil-over shock absorbers, adjustable preload.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED tail lamp, incandescent front and rear turn signals.
Tires:
Front: Dunlop D402F MH90-21 54H. Rear: Dunlop D401 HW90/90-18 71H.
Wheel Type:
Chrome cast aluminum, 5-spoke design.
Instrumentation:
Analog speedometer with integrated digital tachometer and gear indicator, odometer, trip meter, fuel gauge, and basic indicator lights.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature for the 2009 model year.
Ignition:
Key fob for security system and push-button ignition. Manual key ignition switch for backup.
First Service:
1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months.
Subsequent Service:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, for standard oil and filter changes.
Major Intervals:
Spark plug replacement (e.g., 10,000-15,000 miles), belt inspection/adjustment (e.g., 10,000 miles), fork oil change (e.g., 20,000 miles).
Engine Oil:
Harley Davidson Syn 3 (SAE 20W-50) or equivalent air-cooled V-twin specific motorcycle oil. Capacity: 2.8 US quarts (2.6 liters) with filter change.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Heavy Duty (for ABS models) or DOT 5.1 (check manual for specific caliper fluid). Do not use DOT 5 silicone fluid unless specified for specific components.
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Harley Davidson Primary Fluid or SAE 20W-50 Motorcycle Oil. Capacity: 24 US fl oz (0.71 liters).
Fork Oil:
Harley Davidson Fork Oil (e.g., Type 'E' or 'G' depending on rider preference and manual specification). Capacity: Approx. 8.6 US fl oz (254 ml) per fork leg for standard configuration.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch friction plates, brake pads, drive belt, wheel bearings, fork seals, battery life.
Electrical Quirks:
Occasional issues with starter solenoid, charging system components, or self-canceling turn signals.
Engine Performance:
Potential for minor oil leaks at base gaskets or cam cover. Ensure proper torque sequences for engine components.
Heritage:
Harley Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer with a rich history of V-twin engines and custom styling.
Sportster Line:
The Sportster line, introduced in 1957, is Harley's longest-running model. It has evolved from a sport-oriented bike to a versatile cruiser, with the 1200 Custom emphasizing classic styling and rider comfort.
Manufacturing Location:
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA (assembly may vary)
Model Year Notes:
The 2009 model year saw minor updates and continued the evolution of the Sportster platform with fuel injection as standard.
