Harley-Davidson 1200 Sportster

The Harley-Davidson Sportster lineup is the longest-running model family of all Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Introduced in 1957, the first of the Sportsters were ridden mostly on dirt and flat-track race courses throughout the 1960’s and 70’s. The Sportsters are smaller and lighter than other Harley models, using 883cc or 1200cc Evolution engines. 2007 marks the 50th anniversary of the Sportster and the 1200 Sportster XL50 Custom was produced by Harley-Davidson to mark this auspicious occasion with only 2000 limited-editions sold.

The 1200 Sportster is available in four models, the XL1200N Sportster Nightster, the XL1200C Sportster Custom, the XL1200L Sportster Low and the XL1200R Sportster Roadster. All the 1200 Sportster models are outfitted with the high-performance, air-cooled, rubber mounted 1200cc V-Twin Evolution engine, upgraded for 2007 with fuel-injection. These lighter weight (around 565 lbs.) machines retain the nostalgic look of their racing ancestors with various detailing differences between each model.

The Nightster features chopped front and rear fenders, a side-mounted license plate, old school front fork gaiters and is a completely black machine built with very little chrome styling. By contrast, the Sportster Custom features unique chrome accents including a chrome-coated motor, a chrome laced front wheel and a chrome bullet headlight. The Roadster sports wide dirt track inspired handlebars and 13-spoke cast aluminum wheels. The Sportster Low model boasts low-rider handlebars, low profile front forks and low profile rear shocks. The Sportster Low has a seat height of 26.25 inches, the lowest of the 1200 Sportster series.

The Roadster is the least expensive of the Sportster series, starting its pricing at $8,695. Next in line for pricing is the Sportster Low, starting at $9,495 followed by the Nightster at $9,595 and the Custom begins pricing at $9,695. All the 1200 Sportsters are available with many color options.