🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

XL 1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster

Year:

2008

Platform Code:

XL

Engine Code:

Evolution 1200

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Cruiser

Target Audience:

Riders seeking a stylish, customizable, and performance-oriented cruiser with classic Harley-Davidson DNA.

Key Competitors:

Indian Scout, Triumph Bonneville, Ducati Diavel, Yamaha Bolt.

Distinguishing Factors:

Iconic Sportster styling, 1200cc V-Twin engine character, extensive customization potential, strong brand loyalty.

Design:

Low-slung profile, blacked-out components, minimalist styling, drag-style handlebars, forward-mounted foot controls.

Performance:

Torquey V-Twin engine, agile handling for its class, responsive throttle.

Customization:

Vast aftermarket support and factory customization options.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service, Maintenance, and Repair

Secondary Coverage:

Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Specifications

Estimated Pages:

800+

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete disassembly, inspection, and reassembly of Evolution 1200 engine components, including cylinders, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valvetrain, and lubrication system.

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system (EFI) diagnosis, cleaning, and component replacement; throttle body servicing; fuel pump and filter replacement.

Ignition System:

Spark plug service, ignition coil testing, crankshaft position sensor (CKP) diagnosis, and ignition module troubleshooting.

Transmission:

5-speed constant mesh transmission disassembly, inspection, and reassembly; clutch operation, adjustment, and replacement; primary drive system.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, battery service, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), starting system (starter motor, solenoid), lighting systems, instrument cluster diagnostics, and security system (H-D Smart Security System).

Chassis And Suspension:

Front fork (telescopic) service, fork seal replacement, rear shock absorber maintenance and replacement, steering head bearing adjustment and replacement, wheel bearing service.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake system diagnosis, hydraulic fluid flush and bleed, caliper service, brake pad replacement, rotor inspection and replacement.

Bodywork And Trim:

Fender removal and installation, fuel tank service and removal, seat adjustment and removal, electrical component access, decorative trim.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides for common issues, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their interpretation, using diagnostic tools (e.g., H-D Digital Technician).

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, chain adjustment (if applicable, though belt drive is common), tire pressure checks, brake inspections.

Component Overhaul:

Complete engine rebuild procedures, transmission rebuilds, and carburetor/fuel injection system overhauls.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic steps for identifying and resolving issues across all major motorcycle systems.

Electrical Diagnostics:

In-depth troubleshooting of electrical faults, circuit tracing, and component testing.

Suspension Tuning:

Fork oil changes, damper adjustments, and rear shock settings.

Brake System Service:

Bleeding procedures, component replacement, and system checks.

Depth:

Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts.

Detail Level:

Step-by-step instructions with detailed illustrations, torque specifications, and diagnostic flowcharts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Printable pages for in-shop or workbench use.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution images and diagrams for clarity.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, Evolution, 45-degree V-twin

Displacement:

1200cc (73.4 cu. in.)

Bore X Stroke:

3.50 in. x 3.81 in. (88.9 mm x 96.8 mm)

Compression Ratio:

9.0:1

Valve Train:

Overhead valves (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder

Cooling System:

Air-cooled

Horsepower Estimated:

Approx. 60-70 HP (dependent on tuning and specific model variations)

Torque Peak:

Approx. 70-75 ft-lbs @ 3500 RPM

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)

Fuel Type:

Premium unleaded gasoline, 91 octane (R+M)/2 or higher

Fuel Tank Capacity:

3.3 US gallons (12.5 L)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed, constant mesh

Primary Drive:

Chain, 34/56 ratio

Clutch Type:

Wet, multi-plate, 9-plate

Optional Transmission:

N/A (Standard 5-speed)

Transmission Fluid Type:

Harley-Davidson Syn3 (SAE 20W-50) or compatible synthetic motorcycle oil; Primary Chaincase Lubricant (e.g., Harley-Davidson Genuine Formula + Transmission Oil)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 90.5 in. (2299 mm)

Width:

Approx. 31.5 in. (800 mm)

Height:

Approx. 43.3 in. (1100 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 4.5 in. (114 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 60.0 in. (1524 mm)

Seat Height Laden:

Approx. 26.3 in. (668 mm)

Dry Weight Estimated:

Approx. 538 lbs (244 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Not typically specified by Harley-Davidson in owner's manuals, but refers to maximum allowable weight including rider, passenger, and cargo.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

Motorcycles generally do not undergo standardized crash testing like automobiles.

Braking System:

Dual-action, single-disc front brake with 4-piston caliper; Single-action, single-disc rear brake with 2-piston caliper. ABS was not standard or widely available on this model.

Lighting:

Halogen headlamp, LED tail lamp and brake lamp, amber incandescent front turn signals, red incandescent rear turn signals.

Chassis Design:

Low center of gravity for stability, comfortable rider ergonomics.

Security:

Harley-Davidson Smart Security System (optional, standard on some models/packages) with H-D Tagger (fob-based immobilizer).

💡 Technology Features

Display:

Analog speedometer with integrated digital odometer and fuel gauge. No complex infotainment system on base models.

Audio System:

Not standard; aftermarket audio solutions are common.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was not standard on the 2008 XL 1200N; it was an optional feature that may or may not be present on a given motorcycle.

Bluetooth:

Not standard; aftermarket solutions required.

Diagnostic Port:

Serial Data Port (SDP) for connection to Harley-Davidson diagnostic tools.

🔧 Maintenance

Initial Service:

1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months

Subsequent Service:

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

Engine Oil Change:

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

Transmission Primary Chaincase Oil:

Check level at every service, change as needed or per manual recommendation (often tied to 5,000-mile intervals depending on usage).

Spark Plugs:

Inspect every 5,000 miles, replace as needed.

Drive Belt Tension:

Check and adjust at every service.

Engine Oil:

Harley-Davidson Genuine V-Twin 20W-50 (Syn3) or equivalent.

Primary Chaincase Oil:

Harley-Davidson Genuine Formula + Transmission Oil or equivalent.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.

Fork Oil:

Harley-Davidson Genuine front fork oil (e.g., type E or equivalent)

Common Wear Items:

Clutch plates, brake pads, tires, fork seals.

Electrical Gremlins:

Some owners report intermittent issues with sensors or wiring harness connections, though generally reliable.

Fuel System Maintenance:

Regular injector cleaning or throttle body service can prevent performance degradation.

Vibration:

As with many V-twins, vibration is inherent but can be managed with proper maintenance.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand History:

Founded in 1903, Harley-Davidson is one of the oldest motorcycle manufacturers in the world, renowned for its V-twin engines and cruiser styling.

Sportster Lineage:

The Sportster line dates back to 1957, evolving from lightweight models to the larger displacement cruisers of today. The XL 1200N Nightster was introduced as a more stylized, minimalist interpretation of the Sportster for the custom look.

Production Years Sportster:

1957-Present

Production Years Nightster:

2007-2012 (XL 1200N)

Manufacturing Location:

United States (Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Kansas City, Missouri)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Awards:

Specific awards for the 2008 XL 1200N are not widely documented in the same way as automotive awards; its success is more often measured by sales and rider satisfaction within its segment.

Industry Ratings:

Consistently rated well by motorcycle publications for its style, handling, and V-twin character.

Manufacturing Standards:

Manufactured to meet or exceed all applicable US federal safety and emissions standards for motorcycles.