Harley-Davidson XL1200R Sportster 1200 Roadster vs Harley-Davidson Model VD (2008)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Harley-Davidson XL1200R Sportster 1200 Roadsterstacks up against the Harley-Davidson Model VD. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecHarley-Davidson XL1200R Sportster 1200 RoadsterHarley-Davidson Model VD
Model year20081934
Price$8,895—
Engine1200 cc1200 cc
Torque107 Nm—
Weight256 kg—
Seat height30 mm—
Fuel capacity4.5 L—
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission5-speed—
Front brakesSingle disc. 4-piston calipers—
Rear brakesSingle disc. 2-piston calipers—
Tires100/90-H19 / 150/80-B16 —

Harley-Davidson XL1200R Sportster 1200 Roadster vs Harley-Davidson Model VD — which should you buy?

Picking between the Harley-Davidson XL1200R Sportster 1200 Roadster and the Harley-Davidson Model VD usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Harley-Davidson XL1200R Sportster 1200 Roadster brings its published horsepower in a 256 kg package, while the Harley-Davidson Model VD counters with its own power figure.

Our spec tables above highlight the winning number on each line. For the full rider-focused reviews including real-world fuel economy, service costs and available colors, click into either bike: