1989Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1200

28 fields on record

The 1989 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1200 is an air-cooled cruiser that appeals to riders seeking classic American styling and straightforward performance. Its 1198cc V-twin engine delivers 58 horsepower with traditional cruiser character, making it ideal for casual street riding and customization enthusiasts. Known for its accessible handling and iconic design, the Sportster remains a popular entry point into the Harley brand.

Capacity: 1198.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 4-speed
Wet weight: 222.0 kg
Seat height: 736 mm
Power: 50.4 HP (37.6 kW)

⇄ Compare with another bike All model years

Other years 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail10%

Cornering40%

City riding55%

Daily riding60%

Touring55%

Two-up50%

Track15%

Best for: Built for relaxed, torque-rich cruising and classic American V-twin styling rather than outright speed or agility.
Built for: A soulful, torque-heavy air-cooled V-twin with classic Sportster charm, favoring rumble and presence over performance.
Not ideal for: Not the right choice for riders seeking sharp cornering ability, high-speed touring comfort, or any off-road capability.

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

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 1198.0 ccm
Power: 50.4 HP (37.6 kW)
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.2270 HP/kg
Bore x stroke: 88.8 x 96.8 mm
Compression: 9.0:1
Cooling system: Air
Fuel system: Carburettor
Starting: Electric
Valves per cylinder: 2
Torque: Not on record - add it

Transmission

Gearbox: 4-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Chain

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1524 mm
Overall length: 2238 mm
Seat height: 736 mm
Wet weight: 222.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 8.50 litres
Ground clearance: 170 mm
Dry weight: Not on record - add it

Chassis & suspension

Front wheel travel: 175 mm
Rear wheel travel: 92 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc
Front brakes diameter: 292 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc
Rear brakes diameter: 292 mm
Front tyre: MJ 90-19
Rear tyre: MT 90-16

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	1988	1989	1992	1996	1999	2003
Capacity	1198.00 ccm (73.10 cubic inches)	1198.00 ccm (73.10 cubic inches)	1198.00 ccm (73.10 cubic inches)	1198.00 ccm (73.10 cubic inches)	1198.00 ccm (73.10 cubic inches)	1200.00 ccm (73.22 cubic inches)
Dry weight	—	—	—	223.0 kg (491.6 pounds)	223.0 kg (491.6 pounds)	222.9 kg (491.4 pounds)
Seat height	—	—	—	736 mm (29.0 inches)	730 mm (28.7 inches)	734 mm (28.9 inches)
Fuel capacity	8.50 litres (2.25 gallons)	8.50 litres (2.25 gallons)	8.50 litres (2.25 gallons)	8.50 litres (2.25 gallons)	8.50 litres (2.25 gallons)	12.50 litres (3.30 gallons)
Color options	—	—	—	—	—	Vivid black, gunmetal pearl, luxury rich red pearl, white pearl, luxury blue pearl