2008Harley-Davidson XL1200L Sportster 1200 Low

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The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL1200L Sportster 1200 Low is a classic cruiser designed for riders seeking a low-slung, accessible motorcycle with authentic Harley character. Its 1200cc V-twin engine delivers strong torque for relaxed cruising, while the low seat height and nimble handling make it ideal for both new and experienced riders. Known for its timeless styling and reliable air-cooled performance, it remains a popular choice for everyday riding and weekend adventures.

Capacity: 1199.6 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 252.7 kg
Seat height: 711 mm
Power: 68.0 HP (50.0 kW)

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What’s new for the 2008 Harley-Davidson XL1200L Sportster 1200 Low

vs the 2007

Spec	2007	2008
Wet weight	260.8 kg (575.0 pounds)	263.5 kg (580.9 pounds)
Seat height	667 mm (26.3 inches)	711 mm (28.0 inches)
Front suspension	39 mm fork	not listed
Rear suspension	Coil-over; preload dual-adjustable	not listed
Front brakes	Double disc	Single disc

Other years 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering40%

City riding55%

Daily riding62%

Touring52%

Two-up45%

Track10%

Best for: Built for relaxed cruising, low-speed boulevard riding, and short-to-medium distance rides rather than outright performance.
Built for: A classic air-cooled V-twin cruiser with a torquey, laid-back personality and traditional Sportster styling.
Not ideal for: Not a good match for riders seeking sharp cornering agility, high-speed 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?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 711mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2008 Harley-Davidson XL1200L Sportster 1200 Low, 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: 0.2691 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

Transmission

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

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1516 mm
Overall length: 2263 mm
Seat height: 711 mm
Dry weight: 252.7 kg
Wet weight: 263.5 kg
Fuel capacity: 17.00 litres
Ground clearance: 112 mm

Chassis & suspension

Rake (fork angle): 29.6°
Trail: 119 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc
Rear brakes: Single disc
Front tyre: 100/90-H19
Rear tyre: 150/80-B16

Other

Color options: Vivid Black, White Gold Pearl, Dark Blue Pearl, Crimson Red Sunglo, Suede Blue Pearl and Vivid Black, Olive Pearl and Vivid Black, White Gold Pearl and Pewter Pearl, 105th Anniversary Copper Pearl and Vivid Black, Purple Haze (Custom), Copperhead Pearl an

Specs last verified against published sources: October 2026.

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	2007	2008	2009	2010	2011
Capacity	1200 cc	1200 cc	1200 cc	1202 cc	1202 cc	1201 cc
Dry weight	251 kg	251 kg	253 kg	251 kg	251 kg	253 kg
Seat height	667 mm	667 mm	711 mm	668 mm	668 mm	668 mm
Fuel capacity	17 L	17 L	17 L	17 L	17 L	17 L