Built around Harley-Davidson's custom - cruiser motorcycle platform, the 2016 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom relies on a 1201.3 cc (73.3 cu in) air-cooled v2, four-stroke powerplant. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 68 HP (49.6 kW) at 5,750 rpm while maximum torque reaches 96 Nm (70.8 lb-ft) at 3,750 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and belt final drive. With a specific output of 56.6 HP per liter and a 2,000 rpm working window between peak torque (3,750 rpm) and peak power (5,750 rpm), the engine character is prioritizing low-RPM tractability, mechanical longevity and relaxed throttle response over peak redline numbers.
On the scales, the Sportster 1200 Custom measures 268 kg (591 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.25 HP/kg (3.94 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 676 mm (26.6 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,530 mm (60.2 in) wheelbase engineered for planted straight-line stability. The 2.8-liter (0.7 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 4.9 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 57 km (35 miles) between fill-ups.
Within MotoLibrary's Harley-Davidson archive, this model family spans 11 indexed model years from 1996 to 2019, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
56.6 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.25 HP/kg (3.94 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
3,750–5,750 rpm
Theoretical Range
~57 km (35 mi)
Engine
Displacement1201.3 ccm (73.30 cubic inches)
Engine TypeV2, four-stroke
Engine DetailsAir-cooled, Evolution®
Power68.0 HP (49.6 kW)) @ 5750 RPM
Torque96.0 Nm (9.8 kgf-m or 70.8 ft.lbs) @ 3750 RPM
Compression10.0:1
Bore x Stroke88.9 x 96.8 mm (3.5 x 3.8 inches)
Fuel SystemInjection. Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
LubricationDry sump
CoolingAir
Transmission
Gearbox6-speed
Final DriveBelt (final drive)
ClutchMulti-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath
Performance
Fuel Consumption4.90 litres/100 km (20.4 km/l or 48.00 mpg)
Greenhouse Gases113.7 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
ExhaustChrome, staggered exhaust with slash-cut mufflers
Chassis
Rake30.0°
Trail107 mm (4.2 inches)
Front SuspensionTelescopic fork
Rear SuspensionTwin shocks
Wheelbase1530 mm (60.2 inches)
Ground Clearance112 mm (4.4 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre130/90-B16
Rear Tyre150/80-B16
Front BrakesSingle disc. Dual piston, optional ABS.
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
