Built around Harley-Davidson's custom - cruiser motorcycle platform, the 2012 Harley-Davidson XL1200N Nightster pairs a 1201.3 cc (73.3 cu in) air-cooled v2, four-stroke architecture with road-focused gearing. In factory specification, maximum torque reaches 107.1 Nm (79 lb-ft) at 4,000 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 XL1200N Nightster measures 254.9 kg (562 lbs) wet (curb). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 653 mm (25.7 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,519 mm (59.8 in) wheelbase engineered for balanced agility and highway composure. The 12.49-liter (3.3 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 4.9 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 255 km (158 miles) between fill-ups.
Theoretical Range
~255 km (158 mi)
Engine
Displacement1201.3 ccm (73.30 cubic inches)
Engine TypeV2, four-stroke
Engine DetailsAir-cooled, Evolution®
Torque107.1 Nm (10.9 kgf-m or 79.0 ft.lbs) @ 4000 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)
LubricationDry-sump
CoolingAir
Transmission
Gearbox5-speed
Final DriveBelt (final drive)
ClutchMulti-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath
DrivelineChain primary drive, 57/38 ratio
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, slash-cut exhaust with dual mufflers
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.
