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Cruisers

2003Harley-Davidson XL 1200S Sportster 1200 Sport

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The 2003 Harley-Davidson XL 1200S Sportster 1200 Sport is an entry-level cruiser tailored for riders seeking authentic Harley styling with manageable weight and seat height. Its air-cooled 1200cc V-twin engine delivers accessible power and classic torque characteristics, making it ideal for new and experienced cruiser enthusiasts alike. Known for aggressive styling and nimble handling, the XL 1200S remains a popular choice for customization.

Capacity
1199.0 ccm
Engine
V-Twin
Gearbox
Not on record
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Dry weight
240.0 kg
Seat height
711 mm
Power
68.0 HP (50.0 kW)
⇄ Compare with another bike + Add to garage All model years
Other years 2002 2003

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested
Speed 45Agility 55Comfort 55Off-road 10Touring 45Road manners 65
Off-road & trail10%
Cornering55%
City riding55%
Daily riding55%
Touring45%
Two-up35%
Track15%
Best for
Built for spirited cruising and weekend backroad blasts rather than outright speed or long-distance touring, the Sport trim leans into handling more than a typical Sportster.
Built for
It has the classic air-cooled V-twin character with strong low-end torque, a distinctive rumble, and a raw, mechanical feel typical of Harley Sportsters.
Not ideal for
This is not the right bike for riders wanting sport-bike top speed, long-haul 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.

Will it fit you?

Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to us
At 711mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2003 Harley-Davidson XL 1200S Sportster 1200 Sport, 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 →

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Full specifications

Engine
Capacity
1199.0 ccm
Power
68.0 HP (50.0 kW)
Torque
96.0 Nm (9.8 kgf-m)
Engine type
V-Twin
Power/weight ratio
0.2833 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke
88.8 x 96.8 mm
Compression
10.0:1
Cooling system
Air
Fuel system
Carburettor
Transmission
Final drive
Belt
Dimensions & weight
Wheelbase
1515 mm
Overall length
2250 mm
Seat height
711 mm
Dry weight
240.0 kg
Fuel capacity
12.50 litres
Ground clearance
170 mm
Brakes & wheels
Front brakes
Dual disc
Front brakes diameter
292 mm
Rear brakes
Single disc
Rear brakes diameter
292 mm
Front tyre
100/90-19 51V
Rear tyre
130/90-B16 64V
Other
Color options
Vivid black, gunmetal pearl, luxury rich red pearl, white pearl, luxury blue pearl

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 20022003
Capacity 1199 cc 1199 cc
Dry weight 240 kg 240 kg
Seat height 711 mm 711 mm
Fuel capacity 12.5 L 12.5 L

Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.

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Common questions

What is the engine size of the Harley-Davidson XL 1200S Sportster 1200 Sport?

The 2003 Harley-Davidson XL 1200S Sportster 1200 Sport has a Capacity of 1199.0 ccm (73.17 cubic inches).

What engine power does the Harley-Davidson XL 1200S Sportster 1200 Sport have?

The 2003 Harley-Davidson XL 1200S Sportster 1200 Sport has a Power of 68.0 HP (50.0 kW).

What is the torque of the Harley-Davidson XL 1200S Sportster 1200 Sport?

The 2003 Harley-Davidson XL 1200S Sportster 1200 Sport has a Torque of 96.0 Nm (9.8 kgf-m or 70.8 ft.lbs).

How much does the Harley-Davidson XL 1200S Sportster 1200 Sport weigh?

The 2003 Harley-Davidson XL 1200S Sportster 1200 Sport has a Dry weight of 240.0 kg (529.1 pounds).

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