Harley-Davidson Sportster tech info
Harley-Davidson Sportster description
The Sportster may be the smallest bike on Harley's roster, but when it comes to value, performance, history, and all around appeal, few bikes can compete. This 2009 Sportster 1200 Nightster takes that already desirable package and adds a healthy dose of rat-rod styling, creating 1 of the most sinister-looking bikes in its price range. This example has seen just 2,631mis of asphalt over the last 4 yrs and presents as new in every way. Regardless if you're a seasoned rider looking for a solid city bike, a builder looking for a killer project, or a freshly minted enthusiast looking for a great way to join the Harley Davidson family, this '09 Nightster is well worth a closer look.The Nightster commanded nearly $1,000 over its other Sportster siblings and, from the looks of it, most of that money went toward the bike's signature style. The 1st thing that stands out is its low profile. From the low-rise handle bars to the 25.3-inch seat height, Harley definitely had an aesthetic in mind. It's not just an illusion either ground clearance measures in at just under 4-inches. The look is topped off by a two-tone matte paint scheme that blends black and silver with a range of textures including satin aluminum, anodized black chrome, and matte gray powder coating. There are some notable updates to the sheet metal and hardware as well. Out back, the rear fender has been chopped and redressed for a cleaner look continued by the addition of a folding side-mount license plate bracket and a small light bar that replaces the standard taillight. The 19-inch front and 16-inch rear feature black hubs and rims while the front fender mounts and rear belt guard carry some old-school bobber charm thanks to drilled bullet holes.Retro charm aside, the bike still has to function so, under those cosmetic updates, you'll find many of the same time-tested pieces that the modern Sportster built its reputation on. The frame is dressed in black and essentially the same as any other XL but, with the low seat height and flat drag-style bars, it feels like a different bike altogether. The front sports rubber fork gaiters that continue the distinctly old-school look but pieces like dual piston front brakes ensure this is an all-modern bike underneath. The rear half is supported by short dual shocks and reined in by single piston brakes. Riding position is low but upright, supported by a firm solo seat. The hand controls, bar, and bar-mounted front brake reservoir were treated to the black-out treatment as were the turn signals and headlamp cowl. Aside from looking great, these pieces come with the added benefit of glare reduction. Instrumentation follows the bare-knuckles theme of the bike with only a single instrument housing mounted to the center of the bars. The primary view is an analog speedometer but Harley also incorporated a digital odometer and a few warning lamps into the space.One of the biggest additions to the XL came in 1986 when the Evolution engine replaced the Ironhead. 2 Years later, displacement was up to 73 cubic inches (1200cc) and has remained there ever since. It's a familiar setup with 3.5-inch bore, 3.812-inch stroke, and 2 push-rod activated overhead valves per cylinder with self-adjusting hydraulic lifters. Fuel is provided by electronic sequential port fuel injection that raises the bar on reliability without changing the basic character of the bike. Good for 79 pound-ft of torque, the 1200 provides plenty of power to motivate the 592 pound bike with ease. The most notable improvement comes from frame-mounted rubber engine mounts. While the bike still feels like a Harley at idle, the mounts smooth out vibrations at speed, making for a more comfortable riding experience overall. To match the Nightster theme, the engine is powder coated in medium gray and topped with a mix of polished and gray covers. This 1200 benefits from a full Rinehart exhaust system, a Screaming Eagle breather, and a matching
Harley-Davidson Sportster for Sale
- 2005 harley davidson sportster 1200 c($6,000)
- Used 1997 harley-davidson xl 1200c sportster 1200 c($5,999)
- 2009 harley-davidson xl 1200n sportster 1200 nightster($7,199)
- 1998 harley-davidson sportster -($5,988)
- 2012 harley-davidson sportster 1200 custom($10,969)
- 1999 harley-davidson xlh sportster 883 custom($3,995)
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