2011 hd sportster 1200 custom review

Harley-Davidson updated the 1200 Custom with a magnificent new edition sporting fat rubber – a nice way to perpetuate an enduring American tradition. Dating back to the mid-fifties, this member of the Sportster family stands as the brand's oldest active model.

Harley-Davidson updated the 1200 Custom with a magnificent new edition sporting fat rubber. (Photo: Harley-Davidson)

There have been a number of changes and upgrades over the years, but Harley-Davidson brilliantly kept the mythical aspect and trademark character of the Sportster intact. One of the key challenges was to improve the engine without compromising its much-appreciated twitchiness. Since 2007, electronic fuel injection replaces carburetors, adding sophistication while preserving the big Twin's unique feel.

Mechanical looks and thrills
In typical Harley fashion, special attention to styling and detail makes the 2011 1200 Custom a real stunner, particularly in two-tone trim. The 5-spoke chrome cast wheels, thick triple clamp and beefy front tire dramatically set it apart.

Powered by the latest Evolution engine, the 1200 C offers pleasant dynamics, confident accelerations and all the torque that defines a Milwaukee-made V-Twin. Once underway, expect the best from the specialist in mechanical thrills, with vibrations that can be felt at all times but never disrupt the experience.

Torque builds quickly and steadily from just 1,500 rpm, reaching a peak of 79 lb-ft at 3,000 rpm. The transmission delivers sharp gear shifts like a true Harley cruiser. It feels solid and nicely calibrated, allowing you to get the most out of the engine.

Nimble and friendly
Throwing a leg over the 2011 Sportster 1200 Custom and sinking into the saddle proves easy and almost instinctive. This motorcycle targets new riders and seasoned bikers alike – basically anyone looking for a nimble and friendly cruiser. The controls, handlebars and footpegs combine to offer a cool-looking yet forgiving riding position. Sitting close to the ground, with your legs forward and arms extended, you instantly picture yourself at Daytona's Bike Week, ready to put on a show.

Torque builds quickly and steadily from just 1,500 rpm, reaching a peak of 79 lb-ft at 3,000 rpm. (Photo: Harley-Davidson)

When you talk about Harley Davidson's HD bikes most people look at the twin cam softail or touring models.

Having owned a 2005 FXST Softail (carby version) I wanted to go back to the Harley 'family' but own something (for me anyway) a little different.

I have always gravitated to big capacity cruisers over the years e.g. Vulcan 2000, Vulcan Nomad 1600, Royal Star V4 1300, Suzuki M109R 1800, Harley Softail 1450, Honda VTX 1800 you get the picture.

I started to look at Sportsters. I wanted something light, easy to maintain myself, enough power & the 'classic' Harley 'carb' sound.

The Sportster XL1200 Custom has the rubber-mounted XL Evolution 1200 engine.
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Read moreIt has custom touches including a spoke 21-inch front wheel, front disc, 16 inch slotted disc rear wheel, chrome engine covers, forward controls and pull-back chrome handlebars and riser. Some other features include; High-compression, high-flow cylinder heads, High-performance cams, Black powder-coated engine w/ chrome covers, New 1-inch diameter rear axle and stiffer swing arm, Forward foot controls, Chrome bullet headlight & 4.5-gallon fuel tank. As with any purchase I make in cars or bikes, I always look for something which is close to 'stock' or comes with parts to return it to OEM 'stock'. This is the 2nd bike I have every bought from a dealership & it was by accident. It is a 2 owner 2005 XL1200C (carby) blue/silver with 'screaming eagle' slip-on pipes & re-jetted carby. Everything is bone stock ... handlebar, grips, paint, seat ... stock & only 32 000 kms ... The bike was a trade on a new Harley & wholesaled to the dealer I bought it from. To cut a long story short, I drove by the yard, saw it in the lane way, made some enquiries, took it for a hour & a half ride, and bought it for $6250 cash (as I was actually on my way to see a private seller Sportster - go figure) with 12 months rego. I really love the simplicity of this bike. I adjusted the clutch, changed oils including brake fluid, plugs, changed brake pads and went through the service schedule in my service manual (a must have) including steering head adjustment. Easy & fun with a great deal of satisfaction of doing it myself. The bike is light, fast (for me anyway), fun & easy to manage. I am 6'3 & so far have found the OEM forward controls very comfortable. I was considering a Accutronix Forward Control Extension Kit but have not needed it. I'll put some serious hours in the saddle then make a decision. Sportster parts & accessories tend to be cheaper than the big v twin Harley's and there are great online forums/resources you can tap into. My advice would be to look at a 2004 onward here's some things you should know; 2004 – The frame is 100% redesigned & now uses a rubber mounting system for the engine to reduce vibration. Battery was now enclosed, the bike also had a redesigned hamcan, transmission door and a new oil tank. 2005 – Minor change this year, the rear axle was expanded to 1″ for increased stability. 2006 – The new XR1200 is announced. The bike is a modern interpretation of the now legendary XR750 race bike, it uses the same Evolution V-Twin as the stock Sportster with a new Down Draft DDFI II fuel injection system. 2007 – Fuel injection is now installed as standard on all Sportsters. 2008 – The front axle is slightly enlarged and the rear axle is decreased in size a little, both are now metric and have the same size – 25mm. 2010 – The engine control unit is moved to allow more room for aftermarket seat selection. 2014 – All new electric system is installed on all Sportsters, larger brakes are now standard, keyless entry is offered, the Evolution engine has an increased compression ratio and ABS is offered as an option. Although they look great smaller 'peanut' style tanks have a limited range, great for the city but you will be looking for fuel stops on your country runs. My custom has the 4.5 Gallon tank. But if you have your heart set on an earlier Sportster thats fine, but do your research first before you splash out your 'hard earned'. Safe Riding ....

What is considered high mileage for a 1200 Sportster?

Is a 2011 Sportster fuel injected?

How many miles per gallon does a Harley 1200 Sportster get?

What year did the 1200 Sportster get fuel injection?