Built around Harley-Davidson's custom - cruiser motorcycle platform, the 2009 Harley-Davidson XL 1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster features a 1200 cc (73.2 cu in) air-cooled v2, four-stroke configuration. 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 1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster measures 251 kg (553 lbs) dry. 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 1,510 mm (59.4 in) wheelbase engineered for balanced agility and highway composure. The 12.5-liter (3.3 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints.
Within MotoLibrary's Harley-Davidson archive, this model family spans 2 indexed model years from 2009 to 2010, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Standover Height
676 mm (26.6 in)
Engine
Displacement1200.0 ccm (73.22 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 exhaust with dual mufflers
Seat Height676 mm (26.6 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Overall Length2245 mm (88.4 inches)
Fuel Capacity12.50 litres (3.30 US gallons)
Other
StarterElectric
Color OptionsVivid Black, Brilliant Silver Denim and Black Denim, Mirage Orange Pearl and Vivid Black.
Notes
Medium-grey engine with polished treatment covers; Black headlamp visor; Satin trim ring with black body headlamp; Black riser; Silver satin-finished fuel cap, headlamp ring and oil dipstick cover; Mid-mounted rider footpegs; Black, low-rise handlebars; One-piece, solo Sportster® classic seat; Black finish hand and foot controls;
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.
