Vehicle Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Riders seeking a classic cruiser aesthetic with modern performance, owners who perform their own maintenance and repairs.
Key Competitors 2009:
Indian Chief, Triumph Bonneville America, Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic, Yamaha V-Star 950
Xl1200C Distinguishing Features:
Spoked wheels, chrome accents, low seat height, forward-mounted foot controls, robust 1200cc Evolution engine, wide handlebars.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners with the knowledge to maintain and repair their Harley-Davidson, saving time and money, ensuring proper operation and longevity.
Engine Systems:
Engine assembly, disassembly, tuning, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition system, starting system, charging system, emissions control
Drivetrain Systems:
Clutch, transmission, final drive, belt drive maintenance and repair
Chassis Systems:
Frame, suspension (front fork, rear shocks), steering, wheels, tires, brakes (front and rear hydraulic disc brakes), controls
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, instrumentation, battery, starter motor, alternator, ignition, accessories, troubleshooting electrical faults
Bodywork And Accessories:
Body panels, fenders, fuel tank, seat, handlebars, mirrors, exhaust system, fairings (if applicable)
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, brake fluid changes, tire pressure checks, chain/belt adjustment, lubrication points
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake caliper service, electrical component diagnostics and replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common problems and solutions
Technical Adjustments:
Carburetor/fuel injection adjustment, ignition timing, clutch adjustment, throttle cable adjustment
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs
Diagnostics Level:
Detailed diagnostic procedures for all major systems
Rebuild Scope:
Comprehensive engine and transmission rebuild instructions
Electrical Troubleshooting Detail:
In-depth wiring diagrams and fault isolation procedures
Torquew Specifications:
Critical torque specifications for all fasteners
Clearances And Tolerances:
Precise measurements for component clearances and tolerances
Engine Family:
Harley-Davidson Evolution (Big Twin variant optimized for Sportster chassis)
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, four-stroke
Displacement:
1200cc (73.4 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.50 in x 3.81 in (88.9 mm x 96.8 mm)
Horsepower Approximate:
65-70 HP (est. at crank)
Torque Approximate:
70-75 lb-ft @ 3500 RPM (est. at crank)
Fuel Delivery System:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium unleaded gasoline, 91 octane minimum recommended
Ignition Type:
Electronic, high-performance
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Motor Oil SAE 20W-50 or equivalent motorcycle-specific lubricant
Oil Capacity W Filter:
3.0 US quarts (2.8 liters)
Overall Length:
92.5 inches (2350 mm)
Overall Width:
36.4 inches (925 mm) (approx. handlebar width)
Overall Height:
47.1 inches (1196 mm)
Wheelbase:
60.0 inches (1525 mm)
Ground Clearance:
4.4 inches (112 mm)
Seat Height Laden:
26.2 inches (665 mm)
Dry Weight:
570 lbs (259 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
932 lbs (423 kg)
Fuel Capacity:
4.0 US gallons (15.1 L)
Front Tire Size:
100/90-19 57H
Rear Tire Size:
150/80B16 71H
Front Wheel Type:
Chrome, 19-inch, 16-spoke
Rear Wheel Type:
Chrome, 16-inch, 16-spoke
Safety Certification:
Meets FMVSS for motorcycles (US Market)
Braking System:
Dual disc brakes: 292mm front, 292mm rear, hydraulic, dual-piston calipers
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED tail/stop lamp, amber front and rear turn signals
Frame Construction:
Mild steel, tubular, cradle frame with forged steel downtubes
Instrumentation:
Analog speedometer with integrated tachometer, odometer, trip meter, fuel gauge, and indicator lamps.
ABS Availability:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature for the 2009 XL1200C, not standard.
Connectivity Features:
None in the modern sense (no Bluetooth, USB, or smartphone integration).
First Service Mileage:
1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months
Subsequent Service Mileage:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months thereafter
Primary Chain Case Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ or equivalent
Primary Chain Case Oil Capacity:
2.5 US quarts (2.4 Liters)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 hydraulic fluid (for clutch and brake systems, refer to manual for specific compatibility)
Fork Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Fork Oil (Lightweight) or equivalent, viscosity typically 10W (check manual for exact spec)
Fork Oil Capacity Per Leg:
Approximately 8.7 US fl oz (257 ml) (check manual for exact specification)
Common Sportster Issues General:
Primary chain tensioner wear, oil leaks from engine seals, regulator/rectifier failures, clutch cable adjustment sensitivity.
2009 Specific Potential Issues:
Early ESPFI systems could sometimes be sensitive to atmospheric conditions or require specific tuning for optimal performance. Potential for wear on internal clutch components.
Harley Davidson Founding:
Founded in 1903, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Sportster Lineage:
The Sportster line originated in 1957, evolving from earlier OHV designs.
Xl1200C Introduction Year:
The XL1200C variant was introduced in 1996.
2009 Updates:
Likely received minor refinements over previous years, potentially related to emissions, fuel injection tuning, or cosmetic updates.
Manufacturing Location:
USA (Kansas City, Missouri or York, Pennsylvania typical)
General Sportster Reputation:
Consistently praised for its classic styling, accessible riding position, and customization potential.
Industry Reviews 2009:
Likely received positive reviews for its V-twin character, comfortable ride for a cruiser, and strong aftermarket support.
Emissions Compliance:
Meets EPA and California Air Resources Board (CARB) emissions standards for its model year.