🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

Sportster 1200 Nightster

Model Variant:

Nightster

Year:

2009

Engine Code Family:

Evolution (Evo)

Chassis Code Family:

XL

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Cruiser Motorcycle

Target Audience:

Owners and independent mechanics seeking to maintain and repair their 2009 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Nightster.

Competitors:

Other mid-size cruisers from brands like Indian Motorcycle, Triumph, and potentially Japanese manufacturers offering similar displacement and style.

Distinctive Design:

Dark custom styling, low-slung profile, bobber-inspired aesthetics, blacked-out components.

Value Proposition:

Provides detailed, authoritative information for DIY maintenance and professional repairs, ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of the motorcycle.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Service Manual / Workshop Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive repair and overhaul of the 2009 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Nightster

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 500-700 pages (typical for this model and coverage)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, inspection, repair, cylinder heads, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, lubrication system, oil pump, oil filter, cooling system (air-cooled design specifics).

Engine Performance:

Fuel injection system (EFI), throttle body, fuel pump, injectors, emissions control systems, ignition system, spark plugs, coils, engine management system (ECM) diagnostics.

Transmission:

5-speed transmission overhaul, clutch operation and adjustment, primary drive system, final drive belt maintenance and replacement.

Chassis And Suspension:

Frame, front forks (49mm telescopic), rear shock absorbers, swingarm, wheel bearings, steering head bearings, suspension adjustments and service.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake system diagnosis, caliper service, master cylinder service, brake fluid flush and replacement, rotor inspection and replacement.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, battery service, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), lighting system (headlight, taillight, indicators), starter system, ignition switch, instrument cluster.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank removal and installation, fuel lines, fuel filter, fuel pump operation, electronic fuel injection (EFI) system components and diagnosis.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust pipe removal and installation, mufflers, exhaust flange gaskets, lambda sensor (O2 sensor) maintenance.

Bodywork And Trim:

Fenders, fuel tank, seat assembly, handlebars, mirrors, footpegs, side covers, cosmetic components removal and installation.

Maintenance:

Oil change, filter replacement, air filter service, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, clutch adjustment, drive belt tension check and adjustment, battery maintenance, tire pressure checks.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common electrical and mechanical issues, fault code reading (if applicable via diagnostic tools), symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Repair And Overhaul:

Complete engine rebuilds, transmission repairs, suspension overhaul, brake system component replacement, electrical system component repair.

Diagnostics:

Engine control module (ECM) diagnostics, sensor testing, actuator testing, wiring continuity checks, circuit analysis.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific service and repair procedures.

Depth Of Coverage:

Expert level, assuming a qualified technician with general motorcycle repair knowledge. Covers detailed component disassembly, assembly, specifications, and torque values.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable text-based PDF for easy navigation and keyword searching.

Printability:

Printable pages for workshop use.

Quality:

High-resolution scans or digital creation ensuring clear diagrams, text, and images.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, Evolution (Evo) V-twin

Displacement:

1200cc (73.4 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

3.496 in. x 4.125 in. (88.8 mm x 104.8 mm)

Compression Ratio:

9.7:1

Valvetrain:

Overhead valves (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder, pushrod actuated

Horsepower:

Approximately 65-70 HP (est. at crankshaft)

Torque:

Approximately 70-75 lb-ft (est. at crankshaft)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane (R+M)/2

Fuel Tank Capacity:

3.3 US gallons (12.5 L)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed manual

Primary Drive:

Plated chain, 34/46 ratio

Final Drive:

Belt, 32/65 ratio

Clutch Type:

Wet, multi-plate

Transmission Fluid Type:

Harley-Davidson Transmission Fluid (or equivalent API GL-4, SAE 85W-140)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

88.5 in. (2248 mm)

Width:

36.5 in. (927 mm) (at handlebars)

Height:

45.7 in. (1160 mm) (at windshield, if equipped)

Wheelbase:

60.0 in. (1524 mm)

Ground Clearance:

4.4 in. (112 mm)

Seat Height:

26.0 in. (660 mm)

Dry Weight:

Approximately 545 lbs (247 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (Gvwr):

Approximately 930 lbs (422 kg)

Payload Capacity:

Approximately 385 lbs (175 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Certification:

Meets all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) for motorcycles.

Brakes:

Dual-piston front caliper, single-piston rear caliper; optional ABS available on some models.

Lighting:

Halogen headlamp, LED taillight/brake light, front and rear amber incandescent turn signals.

Frame Construction:

Steel frame and swingarm designed for stability and rider control.

Tire Selection:

Tubeless tires designed for optimal grip and handling characteristics.

💡 Technology Features

Instrument Cluster:

Analog speedometer with integrated digital odometer, tachometer (optional on some models), gear indicator, fuel level, clock, trip meter, and indicator lamps.

Ignition:

Key fob with proximity-based security system and electronic immobilizer.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature for this model year.

Diagnostic Port:

Varies by year, often uses a proprietary Harley-Davidson diagnostic connector for the ECM (requires specific H-D diagnostic tools like a Digital Technician).

🔧 Maintenance

First Service:

1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.

Subsequent Services:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months.

Engine Oil Change:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months.

Transmission Oil Change:

Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 24 months.

Drive Belt Inspection:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km).

Engine Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson SYN3 (20W50 Synthetic) or recommended conventional motorcycle oil meeting Harley-Davidson specifications (e.g., H-D 360 SAE 20W50).

Engine Oil Capacity:

3.0 US quarts (2.8 L) with filter change.

Primary Chain Case Fluid:

Harley-Davidson Primary Chaincase Lubricant (or equivalent SE Performance Formula Radiator Cleaner).

Primary Chain Case Fluid Capacity:

26-28 US fluid ounces (769-828 ml).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4.

Common Wear Items:

Clutch friction plates, brake pads, drive belt, steering head bearings, wheel bearings, fork seals.

Potential Electrical:

Rarity of issues, but possible voltage regulator or stator failure over time. Wiring harness integrity checks recommended during extensive service.

Engine Performance Quirks:

Some riders report minor vibrations typical of V-twins, addressed by factory balancing. EFI performance is generally robust.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Legacy:

Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is synonymous with American motorcycle culture, known for its V-twin engines, iconic styling, and robust build quality.

Sportster Lineage:

The Sportster line, introduced in 1957, represents Harley-Davidson's more compact and agile motorcycle offering, evolving significantly over the decades. The Nightster model, introduced in 2007, was a significant departure with its dark custom aesthetic and performance-oriented tuning.

Manufacturing Location:

USA (Milwaukee, Wisconsin)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Recognition:

The Sportster line consistently receives accolades for its blend of classic styling and modern performance, making it a popular choice for customization and everyday riding.

Brand Recognition:

Harley-Davidson is consistently ranked as one of the most valuable motorcycle brands globally, celebrated for its heritage and passionate rider community.