Cruisers

2012Harley-Davidson XL1200N Nightster

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The 2012 Harley-Davidson XL1200N Nightster is a lightweight cruiser designed for riders seeking classic Harley styling with manageable ergonomics and nimble handling. Its 1200cc engine, low 25.7-inch seat height, and compact 562-pound curb weight make it ideal for new riders and those preferring a more accessible platform. Known for its stripped-down, minimalist aesthetic and iconic laced steel wheels, the Nightster delivers authentic Harley character without unnecessary complexity.

Capacity: 1201.3 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 247.2 kg
Seat height: 653 mm
Power: 104.1 HP (76.6 kW)

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What’s new for the 2012 Harley-Davidson XL1200N Nightster

vs the 2011

Spec	2011	2012
Power	68.0 HP (50.0 kW)	104.1 HP (76.6 kW)
Rear suspension	Coil-over	Mild steel, rectangular tube section, stamped junctions, MIG welded swing-arm. Coil-over; preload dual-adjustable shocks.
Front brakes	Single disc. Dual-piston.	Single disc. Dual-piston
Rear brakes	Single disc. Single-piston.	Single disc. Single-piston

Other years 2011 2012

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering42%

City riding62%

Daily riding58%

Touring40%

Two-up30%

Track10%

Best for: Built for relaxed street cruising, short urban hops, and weekend backroad rides where style and low-end torque matter more than outright speed.
Built for: A stripped-down, muscular-looking Sportster with classic Evolution V-twin thump, offering attitude and low-speed grunt over refinement or high-rev excitement.
Not ideal for: Not the right choice for riders seeking sharp cornering performance, long-distance 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 653mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2012 Harley-Davidson XL1200N Nightster, with a cramped knee angle of around 70 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 →

Range and running costs

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Units

Currency

Fuel per litre

Riding a year

Based on the maker's published fuel consumption and tank size. Real-world figures depend on how and where you ride, and the last litres of a tank are reserve. Prices shown greyed are examples - type your own.

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 1201.3 ccm
Power: 104.1 HP (76.6 kW)
CO2 Emissions: 114 CO2 g/km
Torque: 107.1 Nm (10.9 kgf-m) @ 4000 RPM
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Fuel consumption: 4.90 litres/100 km (20.4 km/l)
Power/weight ratio: 0.4211 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 88.9 x 96.8 mm
Compression: 9.7:1
Cooling system: Air
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Lubrication system: Dry-sump

Transmission

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

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1519 mm
Overall length: 2179 mm
Seat height: 653 mm
Dry weight: 247.2 kg
Wet weight: 254.9 kg
Fuel capacity: 12.50 litres
Ground clearance: 99 mm
Oil capacity: 2.60 litres

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Mild steel, tubular frame; circular sections; cast junctions
Front suspension: 39 mm
Rear suspension: Mild steel, rectangular tube section, stamped junctions, MIG welded swing-arm. Coil-over; preload dual-adjustable shocks.
Front wheel travel: 92 mm
Rear wheel travel: 41 mm
Rake (fork angle): 30.5°
Trail: 117 mm