Engineered by Harley-Davidson for the custom - cruiser motorcycle segment, the 2009 Harley-Davidson XL 1200C Sportster 1200 Custom relies on a 1202 cc (73.4 cu in) air-cooled v2, four-stroke powerplant. In factory specification, maximum torque reaches 98 Nm (72.3 lb-ft) at 3,200 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and belt final drive. Internal engine geometry specifies a bore and stroke of 88.9 x 96.8 mm (3.5 x 3.8 inches) with a 9.7:1 compression ratio.
On the scales, the XL 1200C Sportster 1200 Custom measures 255 kg (562 lbs) dry. Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 673 mm (26.5 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,520 mm (59.8 in) wheelbase engineered for balanced agility and highway composure. The 17-liter (4.5 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints.
Within MotoLibrary's Harley-Davidson archive, this model family spans 4 indexed model years from 2003 to 2010, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Standover Height
673 mm (26.5 in)
Engine
Displacement1202.0 ccm (73.35 cubic inches)
Engine TypeV2, four-stroke
Engine DetailsV2, four-stroke
Torque98.0 Nm (10.0 kgf-m or 72.3 ft.lbs) @ 3200 RPM
Compression9.7:1
Bore x Stroke88.9 x 96.8 mm (3.5 x 3.8 inches)
Fuel SystemInjection. Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
CoolingAir
Transmission
Gearbox5-speed
Final DriveBelt (final drive)
Clutch9-plate, wet
Performance
ExhaustChrome, staggered shorty exhaust with dual mufflers
Seat Height673 mm (26.5 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Overall Length2275 mm (89.6 inches)
Fuel Capacity17.00 litres (4.49 US gallons)
Other
StarterElectric
Color OptionsVivid Black, Dark Blue Pearl, Red Hot Sunglo, Flame Blue Pearl and Pewter Pearl, Red Hot Sunglo and Smokey Gold; Vivid Black and Mirage Orange Pearl
Notes
New low-profile rear shocks for improved ride quality; New low-profile front fender
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.
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.
