Positioning:
The 2007 Harley-Davidson Sportster line represented a significant evolution of the iconic cruiser platform, offering a blend of classic styling with modern performance and technology.
Competitors:
Competed with models from Indian Motorcycle, Triumph (Bonneville series), and various Japanese cruisers from brands like Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, and Suzuki.
Engine Platform:
Air-cooled, Evolution V-Twin engine
Fueling:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) on most models
Suspension:
Conventional telescopic front forks and adjustable rear shocks.
Powertrain:
Engine (Evolution V-Twin), Transmission, Clutch, Final Drive
Chassis And Suspension:
Frame, Front Fork, Rear Shocks, Wheels, Tires, Brakes (Front & Rear)
Electrical System:
Ignition, Lighting, Instruments, Battery, Charging System, Starter, Fuel Injection System (EFI), ECU, Wiring Harnesses, Diagnostics
Bodywork And Trim:
Fuel Tank, Seat, Fenders, Handlebars, Controls, Mirrors, Exhaust System
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspections & Adjustments, Brake Pad Replacement, Fluid Changes (Brake, Transmission, Primary)
Troubleshooting:
Engine Performance Issues, Electrical Faults, Starting Problems, Braking Issues, Fueling Problems, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Fork Seal Replacement, Brake Caliper Rebuild, Clutch Replacement, Wiring Harness Repair
Diagnostics:
Harness tracing, Component testing, Fuel system diagnostics, Ignition system analysis, Utilizing diagnostic tools (e.g., Digital Technician Lite)
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: From basic owner maintenance to in-depth engine rebuilds and advanced electrical diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, Evolution Engine
Bore X Stroke 883:
3.00 in. x 3.8125 in. (76.2 mm x 96.8 mm)
Bore X Stroke 1200:
3.496 in. x 4.25 in. (88.8 mm x 108 mm)
Displacement 883:
883 cc (53.9 cu in.)
Displacement 1200:
1200 cc (73.2 cu in.)
Compression Ratio 883:
8.4:1
Compression Ratio 1200:
9.7:1
Valvetrain:
Overhead Valves (OHV), Pushrod-actuated, 2 valves per cylinder
Ignition:
Electronic ignition with knock sensor
Horsepower Estimate 883:
~53 HP @ 6000 RPM
Torque Estimate 883:
~56 ft-lbs @ 3500 RPM
Horsepower Estimate 1200:
~67 HP @ 6000 RPM
Torque Estimate 1200:
~72 ft-lbs @ 3500 RPM
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) - Standard on most models
Fuel Tank Capacity:
3.1 US gallons (11.7 L) or 4.5 US gallons (17.0 L) depending on model
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 91 octane (R+M)/2 or higher recommended
Transmission Type:
5-speed constant mesh
Final Drive:
Carbon steel, endless "O" ring chain
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios vary by model, detailed in manual
Primary Fluid:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ or Syn3 (check manual for exact spec and capacity)
Transmission Fluid:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ or Syn3 (check manual for exact spec and capacity)
Length:
Varies by model (e.g., approx. 88.2 in. / 2240 mm for XL883C)
Width:
Varies by model (e.g., approx. 32.2 in. / 818 mm)
Height:
Varies by model (e.g., approx. 47.8 in. / 1214 mm)
Dry Weight:
Varies by model (e.g., approx. 550 lbs / 250 kg for XL1200C)
Gvwr:
Varies by model (typically around 900-930 lbs / 408-422 kg)
Wheelbase:
Varies by model (e.g., approx. 60.0 in. / 1524 mm)
Seat Height:
Varies by model and suspension (e.g., approx. 26.0 in. / 660 mm for XL1200C)
Crash Test Ratings:
Not applicable for motorcycles in the same manner as automobiles.
Braking System:
Hydraulically actuated disc brakes (front and rear). ABS was not standard or widely available on 2007 Sportsters.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED tail light, incandescent turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Steel, tubular frame.
Chassis Stability:
Designed for stable handling and rider confidence.
Infotainment System:
Basic instrumentation: speedometer, tachometer (on some models), odometer, trip meter, fuel level indicator (low fuel warning lamp), engine diagnostic indicator (CEL).
Driver Assistance Features:
None standard. Focus is on mechanical and electronic control of the motorcycle.
Connectivity Features:
N/A for 2007 models.
Diagnostic Interface:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-II) compliant system for engine management, accessed via diagnostic port (often requiring a specific Harley-Davidson tool like the Digital Technician).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 2,500 miles (4,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first (check manual for exact recommendations based on usage).
Primary Chain Tensioner Inspection:
Regularly, as detailed in the manual, critical for drivetrain longevity.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 10,000-15,000 miles (16,000-24,000 km), but consult manual for specific plug type and interval.
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson 20W-50 SYN3 or equivalent motorcycle-specific oil (capacity approx. 3 quarts / 2.8 L).
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ or SYN3 (capacity approx. 1 quart / 0.95 L).
Transmission Oil:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ or SYN3 (capacity approx. 24 US fl oz / 0.71 L).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Brake Fluid (check specific reservoir for any Harley-Davidson specific recommendations).
Primary Chain Tensioner Wear:
Early hydraulic tensioners can wear, requiring replacement with an updated design or manual tensioner conversion.
Fuel Injector Clogging:
Can occur with poor fuel quality or infrequent use; cleaning may be required.
Rear Shock Leaks:
Can occur over time, leading to a rougher ride.
Exhaust Leaks:
Gaskets and clamps can loosen or degrade over time.
Brand History:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is one of the most iconic American motorcycle manufacturers with a rich heritage of building V-twin motorcycles.
Sportster Lineage:
The Sportster line, introduced in 1957, is Harley-Davidson's longest-running model. The 2007 models are part of the 'Evolution' engine era, which began in 1986.
2007 Updates:
The 2007 Sportster line saw a significant update with the adoption of Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) across most models, replacing carburetors. This improved performance, fuel economy, and emissions.
Production Location:
United States (primarily York, Pennsylvania, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin)
