Vehicle Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Riders seeking a classic Harley-Davidson styling with custom features, DIY enthusiasts, and professional mechanics.
Competitors:
Other V-twin cruisers from manufacturers like Indian, Yamaha (Star), Honda (Shadow), Kawasaki (Vulcan), Suzuki (Boulevard).
Vehicle Selling Points:
Iconic Sportster platform, custom styling cues (chrome, tank design), V-twin engine, authentic Harley-Davidson experience.
Engine:
Engine disassembly, assembly, inspection, troubleshooting, performance tuning, lubrication system, cooling system (air-cooled components), fuel system (carburetor/EFI, fuel pump, lines), ignition system (spark plugs, coils, ignition module), exhaust system.
Transmission:
Clutch operation and adjustment, transmission internal components, gear shifting mechanisms, primary drive system, final drive belt maintenance.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), starting system (starter motor, solenoid), lighting system (headlight, taillight, turn signals), instrumentation, ignition switch, electrical component testing and replacement.
Brakes:
Brake system diagnosis, front and rear brake caliper maintenance and repair, brake fluid flushing and replacement, brake pad replacement, master cylinder service.
Suspension:
Front fork service (oil change, seal replacement), rear shock absorber inspection and replacement, suspension linkage (if applicable).
Chassis And Frame:
Frame inspection, steering head bearing service, wheel bearing maintenance, tire inspection and replacement, spoke tensioning.
Bodywork And Trim:
Fender removal and installation, fuel tank removal and installation, seat maintenance, handlebar and control adjustments, accessory installation guidelines.
Maintenance:
Regular scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid level checks and top-offs, filter replacements (air, oil, fuel), lubrication points, tire pressure checks.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common symptoms, systematic troubleshooting steps for electrical, engine, and mechanical issues.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, reassembly, and adjustment, covering major and minor repairs.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, component measurements, wear limits, and critical clearances.
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Evolution V-Twin
Displacement:
1200cc (73.7 cu. in.)
Bore X Stroke:
3.496 in. x 4.125 in. (88.8 mm x 104.8 mm)
Horsepower:
Approx. 65-70 HP (estimated, actual may vary)
Torque:
Approx. 70-75 ft-lbs @ 3500 RPM (estimated, actual may vary)
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel Injection (ECU controlled, likely Keihin EFI) or Carbureted (depending on specific market and sub-model variations, but EFI is common for 2008)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Capacity:
Approx. 3.1 gal (11.7 L)
Length:
Approx. 91.1 in. (2315 mm)
Width:
Approx. 33.7 in. (856 mm)
Height:
Approx. 46.8 in. (1189 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 60.2 in. (1529 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 4.5 in. (114 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 556 lbs (252 kg)
Gvwr:
N/A (Motorcycle specific)
Payload Capacity:
N/A (Motorcycle specific)
Initial Service:
Typically around 1,000 miles (check manual for exact specs)
Subsequent Services:
Generally every 5,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first (check manual)
Engine Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson recommended V-Twin oil (e.g., SAE 20W50 SYN3 or equivalent)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.0 US quarts (2.8 L) with filter change (check manual)
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula + or equivalent transmission lubricant
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approx. 24 US fl oz (0.71 L) (check manual)
Primary Chain Case Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula + or equivalent transmission lubricant
Primary Chain Case Oil Capacity:
Approx. 24 US fl oz (0.71 L) (check manual)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (check manual for specific Harley-Davidson specification)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, brake pads, wheel bearings, fork seals, drive belt (wear depending on mileage and maintenance).
Engine Specific Considerations:
Monitor for oil leaks, check spark plugs for condition, ensure proper cooling fin cleanliness for air-cooled engine.
Electrical Considerations:
Check battery terminals for corrosion, ensure charging system is functioning properly.
Brand History:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer known for its V-twin engines and distinctive styling.
Sportster Lineage:
The Sportster line, introduced in 1957, is one of Harley-Davidson's longest-running model families, evolving from early Ironhead engines to the Evolution platform.
Xl 1200C Custom Development:
The 'Custom' variant emphasizes chrome, rider comfort, and often features a larger front wheel and custom paint schemes, catering to personalization.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (typically Milwaukee, Wisconsin or York, Pennsylvania for assembly)
Production Years Covered By Manual:
Specifically 2008 model year