2006Harley-Davidson XL1200C Sportster 1200 Custom

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The 2006 Harley-Davidson XL 1200C Sportster 1200 Custom is a lightweight cruiser that appeals to riders seeking classic styling with manageable handling. Its 1199cc V-twin engine delivers strong low-end torque ideal for urban riding and leisurely cruising. Known for its affordable entry point into Harley ownership, this custom model combines timeless design with practical everyday usability.

Capacity: 1199.6 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 251.3 kg
Seat height: 673 mm
Power: 68.0 HP (50.0 kW)

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Other years 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering35%

City riding55%

Daily riding60%

Touring40%

Two-up40%

Track10%

Best for: Built for laid-back boulevard cruising, weekend rides, and making a visual statement rather than for speed or long-distance touring.
Built for: A classic air-cooled V-twin custom with plenty of torque off idle, a relaxed riding position, and the unmistakable Sportster rumble and style.
Not ideal for: Not the right choice for riders wanting sharp cornering agility, off-road capability, or serious high-mileage touring comfort.

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 673mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2006 Harley-Davidson XL1200C Sportster 1200 Custom, with a cramped knee angle of around 75 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: 1199.6 ccm
Power: 68.0 HP (50.0 kW)
Torque: 107.1 Nm (10.9 kgf-m)
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.2706 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 88.9 x 96.8 mm
Compression: 9.7:1
Cooling system: Air
Fuel system: Carburettor
Starting: Electric
Valves per cylinder: 2
Lubrication system: Dry sump

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Belt
Clutch: Multi-plate clutch with diaphragm spring in oil bath

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1534 mm
Overall length: 2294 mm
Seat height: 673 mm
Dry weight: 251.3 kg
Wet weight: 260.8 kg
Fuel capacity: 17.00 litres
Ground clearance: 112 mm
Oil capacity: 2.50 litres

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Mild steel tubular frame; circular sections; cast junctions
Front suspension: 39mm fork
Rear suspension: Coil-over preload dual-adjustable
Front wheel travel: 145 mm
Rear wheel travel: 54 mm
Rake (fork angle): 30.1°
Trail: 119 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc
Front brakes diameter: 292 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc
Rear brakes diameter: 292 mm
Front tyre: MH90-21
Rear tyre: 150/80-B16

Other

Color options: Vivid black, brilliant silver, black cherry, chopper blue, fire red pearl, deep cobalt, glacier white pearl, rich sunglo blue, yellow pearl, two-tone chopper blue and brilliant silver, two-tone black cherry and black pearl, two-tone fire red pearl and viv

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	2006	2008	2009	2011	2012
Capacity	1200 cc	1200 cc	1202 cc	1200 cc	1201 cc
Dry weight	251 kg	255 kg	255 kg	255 kg	251 kg
Seat height	673 mm	711 mm	673 mm	711 mm	676 mm
Fuel capacity	17 L	17 L	17 L	17 L	17 L