Cruisers
2009Harley-Davidson XL1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster
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The 2009 Harley-Davidson XL 1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster is a classic custom cruiser designed for riders seeking stripped-down, retro styling and nimble handling. Its 1200cc air-cooled V-twin engine delivers strong low-end torque ideal for city riding and cruising. Best known for its minimalist design and approachable performance, it appeals to both experienced riders and those new to Harley ownership.
- Capacity
- 1200.0 ccm
- Engine
- V-Twin, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Dry weight
- 251.0 kg
- Seat height
- 676 mm
- Power
- 68.0 HP (50.0 kW)
What’s new for the 2009 Harley-Davidson XL1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster
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) |
| Dry weight | 247.2 kg (545.0 pounds) | 251.0 kg (553.4 pounds) |
| Seat height | 668 mm (26.3 inches) | 676 mm (26.6 inches) |
| Front suspension | — | 39mm fork |
| Rear suspension | — | Coil-over; preload dual-adjustable |
| Front brakes | Single disc | Single disc. Dual piston |
| Rear brakes | Single disc | Single disc. Single pistom |
| Wheelbase | 1524 mm (60.0 inches) | 1510 mm (59.4 inches) |
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built for stylish, low-slung street cruising and short blasts around town rather than outright speed or long-distance touring.
- Built for
- A stripped-down, muscular-looking Sportster that delivers strong low-end torque and classic air-cooled V-twin character with an aggressive, minimalist stance.
- Not ideal for
- Not the right choice for riders wanting sharp cornering agility, high-speed 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?
Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to usEngine
- Capacity
- 1200.0 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
- 0.2709 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
- 1510 mm
- Overall length
- 2245 mm
- Seat height
- 676 mm
- Dry weight
- 251.0 kg
- Wet weight
- 254.9 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 12.50 litres
- Ground clearance
- 130 mm
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
- 92 mm
- Rear wheel travel
- 41 mm
- Rake (fork angle)
- 30.0°
- Trail
- 119 mm
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Single disc. Dual piston
- Front brakes diameter
- 292 mm
- Rear brakes
- Single disc. Single pistom
- Rear brakes diameter
- 292 mm
- Front tyre
- 100/90-19
- Rear tyre
- 150/80-16
Other
- Color options
- Vivid Black, Brilliant Silver Denim and Black Denim, Mirage Orange Pearl and Vivid Black.
- Modifications compared to previous model
- New low-profile front fender.
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 | 2008 | 2009 | 2010 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 1200 cc | 1200 cc | 1202 cc |
| Dry weight | 247 kg | 251 kg | 251 kg |
| Seat height | 668 mm | 676 mm | 725 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 12.5 L | 12.5 L | 12.5 L |
Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.
Rider Reviews
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Harley-Davidson XL1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster?
The 2009 Harley-Davidson XL1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster has a Capacity of 1200.0 ccm (73.23 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Harley-Davidson XL1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster have?
The 2009 Harley-Davidson XL1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster has a Power of 68.0 HP (50.0 kW).
How many gears does the Harley-Davidson XL1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster have?
The 2009 Harley-Davidson XL1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
What is the torque of the Harley-Davidson XL1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster?
The 2009 Harley-Davidson XL1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster has a Torque of 98.0 Nm (10.0 kgf-m or 72.3 ft.lbs).
How much does the Harley-Davidson XL1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster weigh?
The 2009 Harley-Davidson XL1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster has a Dry weight of 251.0 kg (553.4 pounds).
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