Motorcycle specifications Harley-DavidsonXL SPORTSTER 1200 CUSTOM 2017 More intense

introduced as a novelty in 2011, the Sportster 1200 Custom is in fact a more rebellious evolution of the late XL 1200 C. Perhaps it was perceived as being too fearful of its front end, because the bow of the Sportster C has been beefed up. Tilted at 30°, its 39 mm fork accommodates a smaller front wheel (16" instead of 21") and a much larger gumshoe (from 100 to 130 mm), giving it a chunkier appearance. More style too, with pull-back handlebars, mounted on a riser and tilted backwards.

better suspensions were introduced in 2016. The fork features a new cartridge and 3-way adjustable damping. The rear emulsion amortos can be adjusted for preload. The redesigned saddle should improve the daily life of the posterior.

2014 was also a year of evolution. In addition to various upgrades (electrical system, exhaust, oil tank, controls, HD Smart keyless start), the Sportster announced a significant gain in braking capacity. To this end, it was equipped with ABS as standard, a new aluminum master cylinder, new brake calipers and a 300 mm front brake disc.

underneath its classic appearance, the stern light is actually made up of 3 rows of LEDs. The front headlight is topped by a small, striking cap. A few polished parts, some chrome, and the emblematic 1200 engine. Less torquey but no less interesting than the big 96 ci, this engine distils the essential: character. At almost 12,000 euros, the 1200 C still gives you food for thought - but even more so in another version: the darker 1200 CB. The former CA, in Nascar colors, has disappeared from the cataloque.

key features of the 1200 Custom :

- 1200cc air-cooled Evolution® V-Twin engine with E.S.P.F.I. (Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection) - rated at 96 Nm, maximum torque delivery 3750 rpm.
- The engine is finished in black epoxy with chrome crankcases.
- 16 x 3.0-inch chrome-spoke wheels front and rear.
- Michelin® Scorcher® 31 tires; 130/90B 16 front and 150/80B16 M/C 77H rear.
- Wide forks and polished fork crowns.
- Tilt-back handlebars mounted on a curved riser incorporating an LED information dial.
- Redesigned Sportster headlamp nacelle.
- Smaller taillight features a more visible LED system, requiring less maintenance.
- 39 mm front fork with 30-degree angle. Headroom is 105 mm.
- Advanced polished foot controls.
- Preload-adjustable concentric rear shock absorbers.
- Tandem seat as standard. Seat height 725 mm.
- 17-liter fuel tank for greater autonomy.

M.B
(manufacturer's photos)