Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1200 Sport - 1999 Specifications and Reviews

The 1999 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1200 Sport suits riders seeking an accessible, agile cruiser with genuine Milwaukee character. Known for its punchy 1199cc V-twin engine delivering strong low-end torque and nimble handling, it appeals to those wanting classic Harley attitude without heavyweight bulk. This lightweight Sportster remains a popular entry point to the iconic brand.

1999
5 stars Average rating: 5 from 1 votes
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General information

CategoryCustom / cruiser
Year1999
ModelHarley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1200 Sport

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Transmission typefinal driveBelt
Gearbox5-speed
Cooling systemAir
StarterElectric
Bore x stroke88.8 x 96.8 mm (3.5 x 3.8 inches)
Compression10.0:1
Torque88.00
Power61.00
Stroke4
Engine typeV2
Capacity:1199.00 ccm (73.16 cubic inches)
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Wheelbase1,528 mm (60.2 inches)
Seat height730 mm (28.7 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Front percentage of weight46.3
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc238.0 kg (524.7 pounds)
 
 

Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1200 Sport dimensions and frame

Rear brakes diameter292 mm (11.5 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc
Front brakes diameter292 mm (11.5 inches)
Front brakesDual disc
Rear tyre dimensions130/90-16
Front tyre dimensions100/70-19
Rear suspension travel92 mm (3.6 inches)
Front suspension travel175 mm (6.9 inches)

Speed and acceleration

60-140 km/h (37-87 mph), highest gear13.300 seconds
0-100 km/h (0-62 mph)5.500 seconds
Top speed186.0 km/h (115.6 mph)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
Fuel consumption pr. 10 km (6.2 miles)0.55 litres (0.15 gallons)
Fuel capacity12.50 litres (3.30 gallons)

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

61 hp
Peak Power
5.2s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track15%
City60%
Cornering45%
Daily Riding60%
Touring40%
Passenger35%

Rider Profile

Best ForSuitable for a novice-to-intermediate rider who wants a manageable, torquey V-twin without excessive weight or intimidating power.
PurposeBuilt for stylish around-town cruising and weekend backroad rides rather than outright speed or distance touring.
Rider FitThe low 730mm seat height and moderate 238kg weight make it approachable for shorter riders and easy to manage at a stop.
CharacterDelivers classic Harley V-twin character with punchy low-end torque, a relaxed cruiser stance, and a confident, thumping exhaust presence.
Not Ideal ForNot the right choice for riders seeking high-speed touring comfort, sport-bike cornering agility, or any off-road capability.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 730mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 1999 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1200 Sport, with a cramped knee angle of around 80 degrees and an upright riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

Find bikes that fit your height →

⚠ Safety Recalls (2)

STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR Oct 1999 · 99V290000

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MOTORCYCLES. THE HANDLE BARS ON THESE MOTORCYCLES CAN BREAK.

Risk: THIS CONDITION COULD CAUSE THE DRIVER TO LOSE CONTROL OF THE MOTORCYCLE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THESE HANDLE BARS.

EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS Oct 1998 · 98V267000

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MOTORCYCLES. THE CERTIFICATION LABEL INCORRECTLY INDICATES THE FRONT TIRE SIZE AS 100/90-19 57H INSTEAD OF THE CORRET DESIGNATION MH90-21 56H. ALSO THE CERTIFICATION LABELS DO NOT CONTAIN THE CORRECT MODEL DESIGNATION. THIS DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 120, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS FOR MOTOR VEHICLES OTHER THAN PASSENGER CARS."

Risk: IF INCORRECT TIRE INFORMATION IS GIVEN, UNDERRATED TIRES COULD BE PLACED ON THE MOTORCYCLE CAUSING EXCESSIVE TIRE WEAR OR, IN EXTREME CASES, POSSIBLE TIRE BLOWOUTS.

Remedy: OWNERS WILL BE PROVIDED WITH NEW CERTIFICATION LABELS AND INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS. IF AN OWNER DESIRES, THEIR DEALER CAN INSTALL THE LABEL FOR THEM.

Source: NHTSA. View all Harley-Davidson recalls →

Rider Reviews

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