“The XL Sportster 1200L combines specific features and value that our customers requested,” said Bill Davidson, Harley-Davidson Director of Motorcycle Product Development. “This motorcycle is powered by a smooth-riding 1200cc black and chrome treated engine with a lower profile design that stays true to the Sportster heritage of narrow, agile styling.”

The XL Sportster 1200L has a seat height of 26.25 inches, which is 1.8 inches lower than the XL Sportster 1200R Roadster. In addition, the handlebar grips are moved back an inch further than any other Sportster model and a new two-up Badlander style seat provides a comfortable ride. That lower profile seat height, merged with the ergonomics of the new pullback handlebar and mid-mount controls, is sure to accommodate a broad range of riders.

Featuring a black powder-coated 1200cc XL Evolution engine with chrome treatment, the XL Sportster 1200L performs with 79 ft. lbs. of torque. All 2006 XL Sportster models feature a new transmission and all 1200cc models feature a clutch that reduces lever effort by 12 percent. Overall shift effort is significantly reduced due to thin steel “dog rings” that slide to cause gear changes. The new transmission is integrated with the XL Evolution powertrain and shares a die-cast case with the engine. New helical-cut gears mesh more quietly than the straight-cut gears used in the previous transmission.

The 4.5 gallon fuel tank allows the XL Sportster 1200L an extended driving range of more than 200 miles per tank. Standard black 13-spoke cast aluminum wheels with machined silver highlights put a racing spin on Sportster style and steel laced wheels are optional.

The XL Sportster is the original Harley-Davidson hot rod motorcycle, with a design refined from the racetrack to the street, offering premier performance and classic style.

The XL Sportster 1200L is offered in eight color options, including three unique two-tone paint schemes, all with a new 3-D fuel tank graphic.

The XL Sportster 1200L features: