At the heart of the 2008 Harley-Davidson XL1200R Sportster 1200 Roadster custom - cruiser motorcycle, Harley-Davidson 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 XL1200R Sportster 1200 Roadster measures 265.4 kg (585 lbs) wet (curb). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 759 mm (29.9 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 17.03-liter (4.5 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 4.12 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 413 km (257 miles) between fill-ups.
Theoretical Range
~413 km (257 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, staggered shorty exhaust with dual mufflers
Chassis
Rake29.6°
Trail117 mm (4.6 inches)
Wheelbase1524 mm (60.0 inches)
Ground Clearance142 mm (5.6 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre100/90-H19
Rear Tyre150/80-B16
Front BrakesSingle disc. 4-piston calipers
Rear BrakesSingle disc. 2-piston calipers
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight256.3 kg (565.0 pounds)
Weight incl.265.4 kg (585.0 pounds)
Seat Height759 mm (29.9 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Overall Length2289 mm (90.1 inches)
Fuel Capacity17.03 litres (4.50 US gallons)
Other
Color OptionsVivid Black, Pewter Pearl, White Gold Pearl, Crimson Red Sunglo (New)
Notes
Rubber-mounted, 1200cc Evolution® engine; black powder-coated engine with texture black; triple-disc brakes; tachometer; wide, dirt-track-inspired handlebar.
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.
