Harley-Davidson XL 1200 C Sportster Custom - 2005 Specifications and Reviews
The 2005 Harley-Davidson XL 1200 C Sportster Custom is an air-cooled V-twin cruiser built for riders seeking classic styling with nimble handling. Its 1199cc engine delivers strong low-end torque ideal for urban riding, while the aggressive rake and custom aesthetics appeal to those wanting authentic Harley character without the weight of larger models. Best known for accessibility and customization potential, it suits both experienced and newer riders.
General information | |
| Category | Custom / cruiser |
| Year | 2005 |
| Model | Harley-Davidson XL 1200 C Sportster Custom |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Exhaust system | Staggered shorty duals |
| Clutch | Multi-plate clutch with diaphragm spring in oil bath. |
| Transmission type,final drive | Belt |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Cooling system | Air |
| Fuel system | Carburettor |
| Valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Bore x stroke | 76.2 x 96.8 mm (3.0 x 3.8 inches) |
| Torque | 69.00 Nm (7.0 kgf-m or 50.9 ft.lbs) @ 4200 |
| Engine type | V2, four-stroke |
| Capacity: | 1199.00 ccm (73.16 cubic inches) |
| | |
Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels | |
| Rear brakes diameter | 292 mm (11.5 inches) |
| Rear brakes | Single disc |
| Front brakes diameter | 292 mm (11.5 inches) |
| Front brakes | Single disc |
| Rear tyre dimensions | 150/80-16 |
| Front tyre dimensions | MH90-21 |
| Rake (fork angle) | 30.1° |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Fuel capacity | 17.40 litres (4.60 gallons) |
| Wheelbase | 1,520 mm (59.8 inches) |
| Ground clearance | 112 mm (4.4 inches) |
| Overall length | 2,275 mm (89.6 inches) |
| Seat height | 673 mm (26.5 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Dry weight | 255.0 kg (562.2 pounds) |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Color options | Vivid black, brilliant silver pearl, sierra red pearl, black cherry pearl, glacier white pearl, rich sunglo blue, yellow pearl, two-tone rich sunglo blue and chopper blue pearl, two-tone chopper blue pearl and brilliant silver pearl, two-tone sierra red p |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
Best For
Rider Profile
| Best For | Suits riders with at least some experience handling a heavy, low-slung cruiser, though the manageable size makes it approachable for confident newer riders too. |
| Purpose | Built for laid-back boulevard cruising and style-focused short rides rather than outright speed or long-distance touring. |
| Rider Fit | The low 673mm seat height and relaxed, feet-forward custom ergonomics suit shorter riders and those who prefer a low center of gravity over sport-bike lean. |
| Character | A classic air-cooled V-twin cruiser with punchy low-end torque, a raw mechanical exhaust note, and unmistakable custom Sportster styling. |
| Not Ideal For | Not the right choice for riders wanting sharp cornering agility, high-speed touring comfort, or any off-road capability. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
⚠ Safety Recalls (2)
CERTAIN MOTORCYCLES MAY HAVE BEEN PRODUCED WITH DEFECTIVE FUEL SHUT-OFF VALVES. THE FUNCTIONALITY OF THE 'ON' POSITION AND THE 'RESERVE' POSITION OF THE VALVE MAY HAVE BEEN REVERSED.
Risk: IF THE BIKE WERE OPERATING WITH THE VALVE IN THE 'ON' POSITION, THE BIKE COULD RUN OUT OF FUEL, THE EXPECTED FUEL RESERVE WILL NOT BE AVAILABLE. THIS COULD LEAD TO THE DRIVER RUNNING OUT OF GAS WITHOUT WARNING, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE FUEL VALVE AND REPLACE IT, IF NECESSARY. THE RECALL BEGAN FEBRUARY 7, 2005. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT HARLEY-DAVIDSON AT 1-414-342-4080.
CERTAIN FUEL SHUT-OFF VALVES USED AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT, P/NOS 61338-02, 62169-02A, 61338-94D, AND 62169-95C FOR USE ON CERTAIN 2005 CARBURETED SPORTSTERS, DYNA, SOFTAIL, AND TOURING MODEL MOTORCYCLES. THESE VALVES MAY HAVE BEEN PRODUCED WITH THE FUNCTIONALITY OF THE 'ON' POSITION AND THE 'RESERVE' POSITION OF THE VALVE MAY HAVE BEEN REVERSED.
Risk: IF THE BIKE WERE OPERATING WITH THE VALVE IN THE 'ON' POSITION, THE BIKE COULD RUN OUT OF FUEL, THE EXPECTED FUEL RESERVE WILL NOT BE AVAILABLE. THIS COULD LEAD TO THE DRIVER RUNNING OUT OF GAS WITHOUT WARNING, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE FUEL VALVE AND REPLACE IT, IF NECESSARY. THE RECALL BEGAN JANUARY 27, 2005. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT HARLEY-DAVIDSON AT 1-414-342-4080. IF YOU HAVE HAD OR INSTALLED A REPLACEMENT FUEL SHUT-OFF VALVE IN YOUR MOTORCYCLE, PLEASE TAKE YOUR VEHICLE TO YOUR DEALER TO HAVE THE VALVE INSPECTED FOR PROPER OPERATION AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.
Source: NHTSA. View all Harley-Davidson recalls →
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