
Harley-Davidson XL 1200L Sportster 1200 Low
Key specifications
Overview
Introducing the 2009 Harley-Davidson XL 1200L Sportster 1200 Low, a striking embodiment of the custom-cruiser category that appeals to riders seeking a blend of classic American styling and modern performance. With its low-slung profile and a seat height of just 26.3 inches, this motorcycle is designed for comfort and confidence, making it an excellent choice for both new and seasoned riders. The Sportster 1200 Low stands out in Harley’s iconic lineup with its perfect balance of style, practicality, and engaging riding experience, inviting enthusiasts to explore the open road in true Harley fashion. At the heart of the XL 1200L lies a robust 1202 cc V2, four-stroke engine that delivers a hearty torque of 98 Nm at 3200 RPM, ensuring ample power for spirited rides and effortless cruising. The Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) system enhances throttle responsiveness and fuel efficiency, allowing riders to enjoy the classic Harley rumble while minimizing trips to the pump. The 5-speed gearbox provides smooth shifts, while the belt final drive contributes to the low maintenance nature of the bike. The handling is equally impressive, thanks to a mild steel tubular frame and a rake of 30 degrees, delivering a planted feel through corners while maintaining the agility that Sportster models are known for. The 2009 Sportster 1200 Low comes packed with features that enhance both aesthetics and functionality. Its black powder-coated engine is adorned with chrome covers that shine brilliantly against the bike's available color options, including Vivid Black and Flame Blue Pearl. The low-profile front forks not only contribute to the bike’s sleek appearance but also aid in the overall stability and comfort of the ride. Riders will appreciate the one-piece, two-up Sportster classic seat, designed for long-distance comfort, and the stainless steel pull-back handlebars that provide an ergonomic grip. The dual-adjustable rear suspension ensures customization for different riding styles, making this motorcycle adaptable for various terrains. **
Pros
- Low Seat Height: At just 26.3 inches, the Sportster 1200 Low is incredibly accessible, making it ideal for shorter riders or those looking for easy handling.
- Classic Styling with Modern Performance: The combination of vintage aesthetics with contemporary technology makes this bike an appealing choice for those who appreciate both tradition and innovation.
- Strong Torque Delivery: The engine’s torque at lower RPMs allows for effortless acceleration, making city riding and highway merging a breeze.
Cons
- Limited Rear Suspension Travel: With only 2.1 inches of rear travel, the bike may not handle rough roads as well as other cruisers with more suspension travel.
- Weight: At 553.4 pounds, the bike can feel heavy to maneuver at low speeds or when stopped, which could be a concern for novice riders.
- Fuel Capacity: The 4.49-gallon fuel tank may require more frequent stops on longer rides compared to some competitors, leading to less range before refueling is needed.
Technical details
Source specification data
- Make
- Harley-Davidson
- Model
- XL 1200L Sportster 1200 Low
- Category
- Custom-cruiser
- Comments
- Black
- powder-coated engine with chrome covers;
- Chrome
- headlamp visor;
- Chrome
- trim ring with black body headlamp;
- Chrome
- riser;
- Mid
- -mounted rider footpegs;
- Standard
- passenger footpegs;
- Stainless
- steel, pull-back handlebars;
- One
- -piece, two-up
- Sportster
- ® classic seat;
- Low
- -profile front forks;
- Color Options
- Vivid Black
- ,
- Dark Blue Pearl
- ,
- Flame Blue Pearl
- ,
- Red Hot Sunglo
- ,
- White Gold Pearl
- and
- Pewter Pearl
- .
- Modifications Compared To Previous Model
- New
- lowprofile rear shocks for improved ride quality;
- New
- low-profile front fender
- Clutch
- 9-plate, wet
- Torque
- 98.00 Nm (10.0 kgf-m or 72.3 ft.lbs) @ 3200 RPM
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Fuel System
- Injection. Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
- Bore X Stroke
- 88.9 x 96.8 mm (3.5 x 3.8 inches)
- Compression
- 9.7:1
- Displacement
- 1202.00 ccm (73.35 cubic inches)
- Cooling System
- Air
- Engine Details
- V2, four-stroke
- Exhaust System
- Chrome, staggered shorty exhaust with dual mufflers
- Transmission Type Final Drive
- Belt
- Dry Weight
- 251.0 kg (553.4 pounds)
- Seat Height
- 668 mm (26.3 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
- Fuel Capacity
- 17.00 litres (4.49 gallons)
- Overall Length
- 2,250 mm (88.6 inches)
- Ground Clearance
- 112 mm (4.4 inches)
- Rake
- 30.0°
- Trail
- 119 mm (4.7 inches)
- Rear Tyre
- 150/80-16
- Frame Type
- Mild
- steel tubular frame; circular sections; cast junctions.
- Swingarm
- :
- Mild
- steel, rectangular tube sections, stamped junctions;
- G
- welded
- Front Tyre
- 100/90-19
- Rear Brakes
- Single disc. Single piston
- Front Brakes
- Single disc. 2-piston calipers
- Rear Suspension
- Coil-over; preload dual-adjustable
- Front Suspension
- 39 mm fork
- Rear Wheel Travel
- 54 mm (2.1 inches)
- Front Wheel Travel
- 105 mm (4.1 inches)
- Rear Brakes Diameter
- 292 mm (11.5 inches)
- Front Brakes Diameter
- 292 mm (11.5 inches)
Available colors
Compare the Harley-Davidson XL 1200L Sportster 1200 Low with rivals
- Head-to-headHarley-Davidson XL 1200L Sportster 1200 Low vs Harley-Davidson XR1200X
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- Head-to-headHarley-Davidson XL 1200L Sportster 1200 Low vs Harley-Davidson XL1200N Nightster
- Head-to-headHarley-Davidson XL 1200L Sportster 1200 Low vs Harley-Davidson XL1200C Sportster 1200 Custom