Cruisers

2010Harley-Davidson XL 1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster

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The 2010 Harley-Davidson XL 1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster is a custom cruiser designed for riders seeking a blacked-out, stripped-down aesthetic with genuine performance. Its 1202cc V-twin engine delivers strong low-end torque ideal for city riding and cruising, while the aggressive styling and nimble handling make it equally suited to spirited road riding. Known for combining Harley's iconic character with the Sportster platform's agility, it appeals to customization enthusiasts and experienced riders.

Capacity: 1202.0 ccm
Engine: V -Twin twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 251.0 kg
Seat height: 725 mm
Power: 68.0 HP

⇄ Compare with another bike All model years

What’s new for the 2010 Harley-Davidson XL 1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster

vs the 2009

Spec	2009	2010
Engine capacity	1200.00 ccm (73.22 cubic inches)	1202.0 ccm (73.35 cubic inches)
Torque	98.00	98.0 Nm (10.0 kgf-m or 72.3 ft.lbs) @ 3200 RPM
Seat height	676 mm (26.6 inches)	725 mm (28.5 inches)
Fuel capacity	12.50 litres (3.30 gallons)	12.50 litres (3.30 US gallons)
Front suspension	39mm fork	39mm
Rear suspension	Coil-over; preload dual-adjustable	Coil-over shocks, preload dual adjustment
Rear brakes	Single disc. Single pistom	Single disc. Single piston
Wheelbase	1,510 mm (59.4 inches)	1510 mm (59.4 inches)

Other years 2009 2010

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail10%

Cornering45%

City riding65%

Daily riding60%

Touring40%

Two-up35%

Track15%

Best for: Built for stylish, low-slung street cruising and short blasts around town rather than outright speed or long-distance touring.
Built for: A stripped-down, muscular-looking Sportster that delivers strong low-end torque and classic air-cooled V-twin character with an aggressive, minimalist stance.
Not ideal for: Not the right choice for riders wanting sharp cornering agility, high-speed touring comfort, or any kind of off-road capability.

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

Will it fit you?

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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 2010 Harley-Davidson XL 1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster, 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
Power: 68.0 HP
Torque: 98.0 Nm (10.0 kgf-m) @ 3200 RPM
Engine type: V -Twin twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.2709 HP/kg
Bore x stroke: 88.9 x 96.8 mm
Compression: 9.7:1
Cooling system: Air
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Valves per cylinder: 2
Lubrication system: Dry sump

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Belt
Clutch: 9-plate, wet

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1510 mm
Overall length: 2245 mm
Seat height: 725 mm
Dry weight: 251.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 12.50 litres
Ground clearance: 130 mm

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Mild steel tubular frame; circular sections; cast junctions
Front suspension: 39mm
Rear suspension: Coil-over shocks, preload dual adjustment
Front wheel travel: 92 mm
Rear wheel travel: 92 mm
Rake (fork angle): 30.0°
Trail: 117 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc. Dual piston
Front brakes diameter: 292 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc. Single piston
Rear brakes diameter: 292 mm
Front tyre: 100/90-19
Rear tyre: 150/80-16

Other

Color options: Vivid Black, Black Ice Denim, Brilliant Silver Denim/Black Denim, Scarlet Red/Vivid Black

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	2009	2010
Capacity	1200.00 ccm (73.22 cubic inches)	1202.00 ccm (73.35 cubic inches)
Dry weight	251.0 kg (553.4 pounds)	251.0 kg (553.4 pounds)
Seat height	676 mm (26.6 inches)	725 mm (28.5 inches)
Fuel capacity	12.50 litres (3.30 gallons)	12.50 litres (3.30 gallons)
Color options	Vivid Black, Brilliant Silver Denim and Black Denim, Mirage Orange Pearl and Vivid Black.	Vivid Black, Black Ice Denim, Brilliant Silver Denim/Black Denim, Scarlet Red/Vivid Black