Cruisers

2018Harley-Davidson Sporster 1200 Custom

34 fields on record

The 2018 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom is an accessible cruiser that appeals to riders seeking classic styling with modern reliability. Known for its lightweight maneuverability, low seat height, and iconic V-twin character, it excels as both a beginner-friendly platform and a customization canvas for seasoned enthusiasts.

Capacity: 1202.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 255.0 kg
Seat height: 725 mm
Power: Not on record
Know it? Add it →

⇄ Compare with another bike All model years

What’s new for the 2018 Harley-Davidson Sporster 1200 Custom

vs the 2017

Spec	2017	2018
Seat height	676 mm (26.6 inches)	725 mm (28.5 inches)

Other years 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering35%

City riding55%

Daily riding60%

Touring42%

Two-up40%

Track10%

Best for: It's built for relaxed boulevard cruising and style-focused riding rather than speed or long-distance touring comfort.
Built for: It delivers the classic Harley experience: thumping air-cooled V-twin torque, chrome styling, and a relaxed, unhurried personality rather than sharp handling.
Not ideal for: This isn't the right bike for riders seeking sport-bike agility, aggressive cornering, off-road capability, or serious long-haul touring range.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to us

Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 725mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2018 Harley-Davidson Sporster 1200 Custom, with a cramped knee angle of around 80 degrees and an upright riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 750 mm or under — Short Kings →

Find bikes that fit your height →

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 1202.0 ccm
CO2 Emissions: 121 CO2 g/km
Torque: 96.0 Nm (9.8 kgf-m) @ 3500 RPM
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Fuel consumption: 5.20 litres/100 km (19.2 km/l)
Bore x stroke: 88.9 x 96.8 mm
Compression: 10.0:1
Cooling system: Air
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Lubrication system: Dry sump
Power: Not on record - add it

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Belt
Clutch: Multi-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1530 mm
Overall length: 2225 mm
Seat height: 725 mm
Dry weight: 255.0 kg
Wet weight: 268.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 17.00 litres
Ground clearance: 105 mm
Oil capacity: 2.60 litres

Chassis & suspension

Front suspension: Telescopic fork
Rear suspension: Twin shocks
Rake (fork angle): 30.0°
Trail: 107 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc. Dual piston, optional ABS.
Rear brakes: Single disc. Dual piston, optional ABS.
ABS: Optional
Front tyre: 130/90-B16
Rear tyre: 150/80-B16

Other

Color options: Black Tempest, Sumatra Brown, Twisted Cherry, Bonneville Salt Pearl, Silver Fortune/Black Tempest, Industrial Gray Denim/Black Denim

Specs last verified against published sources: September 2026.

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted

Specification	2013	2014	2016	2017	2018
Capacity	1202 cc	1202 cc	1202 cc	1202 cc	1202 cc
Dry weight	251 kg	255 kg	255 kg	255 kg	255 kg
Seat height	676 mm	676 mm	676 mm	676 mm	725 mm
Fuel capacity	17 L	17 L	17 L	17 L	17 L

Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.

Rider Reviews

—

☆☆☆☆☆

Be the first to rate

MotorcycleDB Review

The 2018 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom is a powerful and stylish motorcycle that delivers a smooth and exhilarating ride. With its 1200cc engine, the Sportster 1200 Custom offers impressive acceleration and power, making it a great choice for riders who crave speed and performance. Its sleek design and customizable features, such as different paint options and handlebar styles, allow riders to personalize their bike to fit their own unique style. Additionally, the Sportster 1200 Custom's comfortable seating and easy handling make it a practical and enjoyable option for both short trips around town and long-distance rides.

Overall, the 2018 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom is a top-of-the-line motorcycle that offers a combination of power, style, and comfort. Whether you're a seasoned rider or new to the world of motorcycles, the Sportster 1200 Custom is sure to impress with its impressive performance and customizable features. If you're in the market for a high-quality and reliable motorcycle that offers a thrilling ride, the Sportster 1200 Custom is definitely worth considering.