Harley-Davidson XLCH 1000 Sportster vs Yamaha YZF R1 (2026)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Harley-Davidson XLCH 1000 Sportsterstacks up against the Yamaha YZF R1. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecHarley-Davidson XLCH 1000 SportsterYamaha YZF R1
Model year19782026
Price$19,199
Engine997 cc998 cc
Horsepower57 hp
Weight203 kg
Seat height856 mm
Fuel capacity2.4 L17.0 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission4-speedManual, 6 speed, Chain
Front brakesDual discDual Hydraulic Disc
Rear brakesSingle discHydraulic Disc
Tires3.75-19 / 4.25-18 Bridgestone® BATTLAX RACING STREET RS11F 120/70 ZR17 / Bridgestone® BATTLAX RACING STREET RS11R 190/55 ZR17

Harley-Davidson XLCH 1000 Sportster vs Yamaha YZF R1 — which should you buy?

Picking between the Harley-Davidson XLCH 1000 Sportster and the Yamaha YZF R1 usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Harley-Davidson XLCH 1000 Sportster brings 57 hp, while the Yamaha YZF R1 counters with its own power figure at 203 kg.

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: