2009Harley-Davidson XL1200C Sportster 1200 Custom

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The 2009 Harley-Davidson XL 1200C Sportster 1200 Custom appeals to riders seeking an accessible, nimble cruiser with classic styling. Its 1202cc V-twin engine delivers solid torque for street riding, while the lightweight chassis makes it ideal for beginners and experienced riders alike. Known for customization potential and maneuverability, it's the perfect entry point into the Harley lifestyle.

Capacity: 1202.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 255.0 kg
Seat height: 673 mm
Power: 68.0 HP (50.0 kW)

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What’s new for the 2009 Harley-Davidson XL1200C Sportster 1200 Custom

vs the 2008

Spec	2008	2009
Torque	107.1 Nm (10.9 kgf-m or 79.0 ft.lbs)	98.0 Nm (10.0 kgf-m or 72.3 ft.lbs)
Seat height	711 mm (28.0 inches)	673 mm (26.5 inches)
Front suspension	39 mm	39mm fork
Rear suspension	Mild steel, rectangular tube section, stamped junctions, MIG welded swing-arm. Coil-over; preload dual-adjustable shocks.	Coil-over preload dual-adjustable
Front brakes	Single disc	Single disc. 2-piston calipers
Rear brakes	Single disc	Single disc. Single pistom

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 2009 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: 1202.0 ccm
Power: 68.0 HP (50.0 kW)
Torque: 98.0 Nm (10.0 kgf-m)
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.2667 HP/kg (dry)
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: 1520 mm
Overall length: 2275 mm
Seat height: 673 mm
Dry weight: 255.0 kg
Wet weight: 267.2 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): 30.0°
Trail: 119 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc. 2-piston calipers
Front brakes diameter: 292 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc. Single pistom
Rear brakes diameter: 292 mm
Front tyre: MH90-21
Rear tyre: 150/80-16

Other

Color options: Vivid Black, Dark Blue Pearl, Red Hot Sunglo, Flame Blue Pearl and Pewter Pearl, Red Hot Sunglo and Smokey Gold; Vivid Black and Mirage Orange 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	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