Harley-Davidson XL 1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster vs Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster (1200)

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

Spec comparison

SpecHarley-Davidson XL 1200N Sportster 1200 NightsterHarley-Davidson XLH Sportster
Model year20101969
Price
Engine1202 cc883 cc
Torque98 Nm
Weight251 kg
Seat height29 mm
Fuel capacity3.3 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission5-speed
Front brakesSingle disc. Dual PistonExpanding brake (drum brake)
Rear brakesSingle disc. Single pistonExpanding brake (drum brake)
Tires100/90-19 / 150/80-16

Harley-Davidson XL 1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster vs Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster — which should you buy?

Picking between the Harley-Davidson XL 1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster and the Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Harley-Davidson XL 1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster brings its published horsepower in a 251 kg package, while the Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 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: