Engineered by Harley-Davidson for the custom - cruiser motorcycle segment, the 2008 Harley-Davidson XL1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster utilizes a 1199.6 cc (73.2 cu in) air-cooled v2, four-stroke layout. 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 Sportster 1200 Nightster measures 254.9 kg (562 lbs) wet (curb). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 668 mm (26.3 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,524 mm (60 in) wheelbase engineered for planted straight-line stability. The 12.49-liter (3.3 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 4.12 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 303 km (188 miles) between fill-ups.
Theoretical Range
~303 km (188 mi)
Engine
Displacement1199.6 ccm (73.20 cubic inches)
Engine TypeV2, four-stroke
Engine DetailsV2, four-stroke
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)
CoolingAir
Transmission
Gearbox5-speed
Final DriveBelt (final drive)
ClutchMulti-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath
Performance
Fuel Consumption4.12 litres/100 km (24.3 km/l or 57.09 mpg)
Greenhouse Gases95.6 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
ExhaustChrome, slash-cut exhaust w/ dual mufflers
Chassis
Rake29.6°
Trail117 mm (4.6 inches)
Wheelbase1524 mm (60.0 inches)
Ground Clearance100 mm (3.9 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre100/90-H19
Rear Tyre150/80-B16
Front BrakesSingle disc
Rear BrakesSingle disc
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight247.2 kg (545.0 pounds)
Weight incl.254.9 kg (562.0 pounds)
Seat Height668 mm (26.3 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Overall Length2179 mm (85.8 inches)
Fuel Capacity12.49 litres (3.30 US gallons)
Other
StarterElectric
Color OptionsVivid Black, Suede Blue Pearl and Vivid Black, Olive Pearl Denim and Black Denim, Brilliant Silver Denim and Black Denim, Mirage Orange Pearl and Vivid Black.
Notes
Side-mounted license plate; chopped rear fender with black supports; stop-turn-tail lights; black 19-in. laced steel front wheel, black 16-in. laced steel rear wheel; black front fork gaiters; black finish hand and foot controls; chopped front fender with black brackets; belt guard with lightening holes
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.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
