1991Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1200

30 fields on record

The 1991 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1200 is an air-cooled V-twin cruiser that appeals to riders seeking classic American styling with accessible performance. Known for its agile handling and lightweight frame compared to larger Harleys, this model delivers authentic cruiser character with 58 horsepower. The Sportster 1200 remains iconic for bridging the gap between entry-level and serious motorcycle enthusiasts.

Capacity: 1198.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 223.0 kg
Seat height: 736 mm
Power: 50.4 HP (37.6 kW)

⇄ Compare with another bike All model years

What’s new for the 1991 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1200

vs the 1990

Spec	1990	1991
Top speed	—	155.0 km/h (96.3 mph)
Dry weight	—	223.0 kg (491.6 pounds)
Wet weight	222.0 kg (489.4 pounds)	226.0 kg (498.2 pounds)
Gearbox	4-speed	5-speed

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: 0.2260 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: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Belt

Performance

Top speed: 155.0 km/h (96.3 mph)

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1524 mm
Overall length: 2238 mm
Seat height: 736 mm
Dry weight: 223.0 kg
Wet weight: 226.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 8.50 litres
Ground clearance: 170 mm

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: 100/90-19
Rear tyre: 130/90-16

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	1991	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