2014 Harley Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom Review

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2014 Harley-Davidson XL1200C 1200 Custom

2014 Harley-Davidson XL1200C 1200 Custom Review

2014 Harley-Davidson XL1200C 1200 Custom

The ultimate wide-shouldered cruiser, featuring optional H-D1™ Factory Customization…

A beefy front end, wide triple clamps, big fat tires on Chrome 5-spoke Cast Aluminum wheels; the Sportster® 1200 Custom combines all the agility and kick of a Sportster® model with the big, fat attitude of a custom cruiser.

Clean styling lines, chrome trim and eyebrow and a stylized LED taillight combine with a fat, strong stance to give the 1200 Custom an "in- your-face" presence. The front-end suspension and geometry work together to provide truly balanced handling.

With the H-D1™ factory customization process, customers can personalize their 1200 Custom with seat, handlebar, foot control, wheel, security, paint and engine finish options straight from the factory. The Sportster® 1200 Custom proves, once again, that NO ONE does fat custom like Harley-Davidson.

2014 Harley-Davidson XL1200C 1200 Custom Total Motorcycle Key Features

NEW Paint color options, graphics and H-D1™ factory customization options
NEW Front and rear brakes with a larger front rotor, more-rigid front and rear calipers with larger pistons, and braided stainless steel brake lines
NEW Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
NEW Trip switch function allows odometer to display gear indicator and rpm
NEW Optional keyless H-D® Factory Security System with a proximity-based, hands-free security fob
NEW Integrated electrical system including new hand controls, speedometer, updated wire harness, oil tank, and side covers
• Black side covers to match bodywork finish
• Chrome, 5-Spoke Cast Aluminum wheels front and rear
• Michelin® Scorcher® tires
• Wider fork spacing and polished triple clamps
• Reshaped classic Sportster® "eyebrow" over the headlamp
• Taillight with a bright, low-maintenance LED element
• Front suspension rates are re-tuned to match the new tire/wheel combination. 39 mm front fork with 30 degrees rake.
• Pull-back handlebar mounted on a curved riser incorporates an LED warning light display
• Polished forward foot controls
• Two-up seat is standard with 26.5-inch laden seat height
• 4.5-gallon fuel tank offers long riding range
• Powertrain finished in black powdercoat with chrome covers

• Evolution® V-Twin powertrain with Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
• Rubber-mounted powertrain to reduce vibration
• 5-speed transmission
• Dual staggered exhaust
• Disc brakes
• Handlebar-mounted electronic speedometer

2014 Harley-Davidson XL1200C 1200 Custom Total Motorcycle Features and Benefits

Fat Front End

Leading the way for the 1200 Custom motorcycle is a fat, in-your-face front end. The thick triple clamp and beefy front tire wrapped around a 16-inch 5-spoke chrome cast wheel will not be denied. Take a look and you'll see the true custom character of a Sportster® motorcycle, but just a little fatter and a little more custom.

Rear LED Lighting

Low profile in style, but big and bright when you need it most. The rear LED beam on the 1200 Custom motorcycle fits the contours of the rear fender perfectly, and the array of fast-acting red LED lamps grabs everyone's attention both during the day and at night. License plate mounts are slotted nearby to offer a convenient and noticeable spot for your tag.

Chrome 5-Spoke Cast Wheels

When it comes to custom, standout wheels are a must. The 1200 Custom motorcycle features brilliant chrome 5-spoke wheels that cast striking reflections wherever you go. Custom style for a custom ride.

H-D1™ Factory Customization

Make it yours from the start. Now with H-D1™ factory customization, your personalized 1200 Custom motorcycle is built just for you from the Harley-Davidson factory. It's easy: use the online H-D1™ Bike Builder tool to configure a bike that fits your style and personality. Select from extended paint offerings and genuine H-D engines, wheels, seats, handlebars, footpeg positions and security. Bring your plan to your Harley-Davidson dealer for consultation and to place your order. Our employees go to work, building your motorcycle, according to your design, and in about 4 weeks* your masterpiece will be ready for you at your dealer.

Evolution® Engine Heritage

The Evolution® engine—known in certain crowds as the Blockhead—was first bolted to the frame of a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle back in 1984. Born from legendary Shovelhead and Ironhead engines, the Evolution® engine broke new ground in displacement innovation while maintaining the hunger for power, durability and proven reliability that The Motor Company was built on.

Evolution® Engine Innovation

Air-cooled and durable as hell, the 1200cc Evolution® engine is yet another nod to the unwavering work ethic that drives advancements in motor technology at Harley-Davidson. Aluminum heads and cylinders lighten the load of the bike and improve air-cooling efficiency. Electronic fuel injection says goodbye to carburetors and boasts increased reliability and less routine maintenance. Bottom line: the rubber-mounted Evolution® engine runs hard and rides smooth for thousands of miles so you can just worry about taking in the freedom of the open road.

Pure Harley-Davidson Styling

Feast your eyes on the 1200cc Evolution® engine and there's no mistaking its roots. This is authentic Harley-Davidson style through and through with an attention to detail you won't find from any other motorcycle company. Black powder-coated cylinders and cylinder heads are topped off with chrome rocker covers, while chrome pushrods highlight the iconic V-Twin. It's a jewel machined out of metal. Pure. Dripping with power. From the classic edge of the cooling fins to the clean lines of cases and covers—the 1200c Evolution® engine makes an ironclad statement to holding on to what's right and staying true to what satisfies the rider.

H-D® Smart Security System (Optional)

The factory installed next-generation security system features a hands-free fob that automatically arms and disarms the vehicle electronic security functions as you approach and walk away from the bike. Stick the fob on your ignition key ring and let it do all the work. It's this attention to details and security that make Harley-Davidson® motorcycles unique.

New Foundation Brake System

Like riding itself, you can never go too far when it comes to improving a bike's brakes. This is why for 2014 we gave the brake system of each Sportster model a complete overhaul designed to improve performance, fit and finish. We increased the size of the brake rotors from 292mm to 300mm, and added a more powerful, stylized front caliper with 34mm pistons, and stylized rear caliper to match. Other system features include an improved all-aluminum integrated rear master cylinder with reservoir, new all-aluminum front master cylinder with reduced friction and higher efficiency, and stainless steel braided lines. It all adds up to more confidence on the road, and more power and predictability when you squeeze the brakes.

Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS) (Optional)

When the burrito exit comes out of nowhere, you'll need a little extra braking power. That's why we're proud to introduce optional anti-lock brakes (ABS) on all Sportster models. ABS improves overall braking performance, and keeps you from locking up under heavy braking. Plus, the entire system is smartly integrated into the design of the bike, so nothing gets in the way of your steel work of art. Because what's the point of stopping if you can't make a few heads turn?

New Ergonomic Hand Controls

If your hands feel good on the controls you'll feel good on the bike. Which is why when you twist the throttle of a Harley-Davidson, you just know. You feel more dialed in, comfortable and attuned to the road and everything around you. In designing the new hand controls we went the extra mile to make sure every operation is as intuitive, fluid and effortless as possible. So you can keep your eyes on what's over the next ridge and not what's under your thumb. Things like self-canceling turn signals that are right where you want them to be and brake levers that are easy for all riders to reach. We've added new features, too, like a trip switch and vehicle "start" switch on keyless models. Details that may seem small but make a huge difference on the road. Because it's tiny things like these that make a Harley-Davidson a Harley-Davidson.

Integrated Electrical System

Coursing through every 2014 Sportster model is a new body controller with updated routing. It has a cleaner look and reduces the number of wiring harnesses, switches, relays and fuses. Which is a fancy way of saying less fuss. We've also added a new voltage regulator with modified fins and integrated connectors to improve heat rejection. Like you, the 2014 Sportster® motorcycles are wired and ready to chase wind and eat up miles of pavement.

New Closed Loop Exhaust System

Designed to meet future worldwide emissions standards, and the standards of future generations of Harley-Davidson riders. The new closed loop exhaust system delivers heart-pounding performance in the key of the trademark Harley-Davidson rumble. With its robust, soul-stirring big twin design, new durable mufflers with exhaust shields, a catalyst and mini heated oxygen sensors that improve emissions and drivability, this system is not only better for the environment, it makes riding better.

Tach and Gear Indicator Readout

Even though none of us would want to admit it, from time to time, we've all had to kick our shift lever back down to 1 to figure out what gear we were in. This year the Sportster® models get a new speedometer with a gear indicator readout and a tachometer that can be activated by your trip switch. Now you've got all the information you need to keep it in the power band at the touch of a finger.

Michelin® Scorcher™ Tires

Michelin® Scorcher™ Tires provide the superior performance, sensational grip, impressive durability and excellent handling expected on a race-bred bike. The exclusive deep-cut tread design improves grip and water evacuation capability. Grip performance and durability is also enhanced by the tire's rubber compounds, which use the latest generation of Michelin synthetic polymers. Under the rear rubber, aramid belts are used to stabilize your ride, which helps inspire confidence in handling.

Forward-Mounted Controls

With the custom forward-mounted controls on the 1200 Custom motorcycle, you can kick back a little and stretch your legs for the ultimate cruise through town or across the state line. It's time to take in the open road the way you were meant to—on a two-wheeled machine that keeps it as real as you do.

Pullback Handlebar

Sink into the saddle and let your arms fall naturally to the grips. The 1200 Custom motorcycle is equipped with a pullback handlebar that creates a comfortable, laidback cruising position. Stainless steel for a tough custom look, and about one inch closer to your chest, you're ready to take on the road ahead.

Two-Up Custom Seat

The 1200 Custom motorcycle sports a sleek one-piece, two-up classic seat that has all the premium material, stitching and style you expect from Harley-Davidson, the motorcycle makers who've been putting their own seats in the saddle for over a hundred years. It's a great seat to go solo, and has plenty of room to bring along a friend.

2014 Harley-Davidson XL1200C 1200 Custom – Total Motorcycle USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: Vivid Black $10,649; Color Option $10,964; Two-Tone Option $11,184 USD

DIMENSIONS

Length – 87.6 in.

Seat Height, Laden 7 – 26.6 in.

Seat Height, Unladen 7 – 28 in.

Ground Clearance – 4.3 in.

Rake (steering head) (deg) – 30

Trail – 4.2 in.

Wheelbase – 59.8 in.

Tires, Front Specification – 130/90B16 72H

Tires, Rear Specification – 150/80B16 77H

Fuel Capacity – 4.5 gal.

Oil Capacity (w/filter) – 2.8 qt.

Weight, As Shipped – 562 lb.

Weight, In Running Order – 584 lb.

Luggage Capacity -Volume – N/A

ENGINE

Engine 1Air-cooled, Evolution®

Bore – 3.5 in.

Stroke – 3.811 in.

Displacement – 73.4 cu in

Compression Ratio – 10:01

Fuel System 3 – Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)

DRIVETRAIN

Primary Drive – Chain, 38/57 ratio

Gear Ratios (overall) 1st – 9.315

Gear Ratios (overall) 2nd – 6.653

Gear Ratios (overall) 3rd – 4.948

Gear Ratios (overall) 4th – 4.102

Gear Ratios (overall) 5th – 3.517

Gear Ratios (overall) 6th – N/A

CHASSIS

Exhaust – Chrome, staggered exhaust with slash-cut mufflers

Wheels, Optional Style Type 9 – N/A

Wheels, Front Type 9 – Chrome, 5-Spoke Cast Aluminum

Wheels, Rear Type – Chrome, 5-Spoke Cast Aluminum

Brakes, Caliper Type – Dual-piston front, Dual-piston rear

Parking Brake – N/A

PERFORMANCE

Engine Torque Testing Method – J1349

Engine Torque 2 – 70.8 ft-lb

Engine Torque (rpm) – 3,500

Lean Angle, Right (deg.) – 26.2

Lean Angle, Left (deg.) – 28.3

Fuel Economy: Combined City/Hwy 5 – 48 mpg

PRICING 6

Vivid Black$10,649

Color Option$10,964

Two-Tone Option$11,184

Custom Color OptionN/A

Hard Candy Color OptionN/A

Security Option$395

Wheel OptionN/A

ABS Option$795

Cruise Control OptionN/A

Freight$360

Security Package (Security and ABS)N/A

ELECTRIC

Lights (as per country regulation), Indicator Lamps 8High beam, neutral, low oil pressure, turn signals, engine diagnostics, low fuel warning, low battery, security system (optional)

Gauges – Handlebar-mounted electronic speedometer with odometer, time-of-day clock on odometer, dual tripmeter, low fuel warning light, low oil pressure light, engine diagnostics readout, LED indicator lights

1Recommended 91 octane or higher fuel (R+M)/2.

2Values shown are nominal. Performance may vary by country and region.

3Standard and optional fuel systems may vary by country.

4See motorcycle owner's manual for complete details.

5Estimated from fuel economy tests on a sample motorcycle from the corresponding family conducted by Harley-Davidson under ideal laboratory conditions. Not all motorcycle models undergo fuel economy testing. Fuel economy and mileage may vary among motorcycle models within a family. Your mileage may vary depending on your personal riding habits, weather conditions, trip length, vehicle condition and vehicle configuration and other conditions. Break-in mileage may vary.

6Prices listed are the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices. Options such as color are available at additional cost. Prices exclude dealer setup, taxes, title and licensing and are subject to change. Dealer prices may vary.

7Measurement reflects 180 lb. (81.7 kg) operator weight.

8North America security system includes immobilizer; outside North America the security system includes immobilizer and siren.

9Standard and optional wheels may vary by country and region.

2014 Harley-Davidson XL1200C 1200 Custom – Total Motorcycle Canadian Specifications/Technical Details
Canada MSRP Price: See your local retailer for pricing information.

PRICING

See your local retailer for pricing information.

DIMENSIONS

Length – 2,225 mm

Seat Height, Laden 6 – N/A

Seat Height, Unladen 6 – 710 mm

Ground Clearance – 110 mm

Rake (steering head) (deg) – 30

Trail – 107 mm

Wheelbase – 1,520 mm

Tires, Front Specification – 130/90B16 M/C 72H

Tires, Rear Specification – 150/80B16 M/C 77H

Fuel Capacity – 17 l

Oil Capacity (w/filter) – 2.6 l

Weight, As Shipped – 255 kg

Weight, In Running Order – 265 kg

Luggage Capacity -Volume – N/A

ENGINE

Engine 1 – Air-cooled, Evolution®

Bore – 88.9 mm

Stroke – 96.8 mm

Displacement – 1,202 cc

Compression Ratio – 10:01

Fuel System 3 – Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)

DRIVETRAIN

Primary Drive – Chain, 38/57 ratio

Gear Ratios (overall) 1st – 9.315

Gear Ratios (overall) 2nd – 6.653

Gear Ratios (overall) 3rd – 4.948

Gear Ratios (overall) 4th – 4.102

Gear Ratios (overall) 5th – 3.517

Gear Ratios (overall) 6th – N/A

CHASSIS

ExhaustChrome, staggered exhaust with slash-cut mufflers

Wheels, Optional Style Type 8 – N/A

Wheels, Front Type 8 – Chrome, 5-Spoke Cast Aluminum

Wheels, Rear Type – Chrome, 5-Spoke Cast Aluminum

Brakes, Caliper Type – Dual-piston front, Dual-piston rear

Parking Brake – N/A

PERFORMANCE

Engine Torque Testing Method – J1349

Engine Torque 2 – 96 Nm

Engine Torque (rpm) – 3,500

Lean Angle, Right (deg.) – 26.2

Lean Angle, Left (deg.) – 28.3

Fuel Economy: Combined City/Hwy 5 – 4.9 l/100 km

ELECTRIC

Lights (as per country regulation), Indicator Lamps 7High beam, neutral, low oil pressure, turn signals, engine diagnostics, low fuel warning, low battery, security system (optional)

GaugesHandlebar-mounted electronic speedometer with odometer, time-of-day clock on odometer, dual tripmeter, low fuel warning light, low oil pressure light, engine diagnostics readout, RPM/gear display, ABS light, LED indicator lights

1Recommended 91 octane or higher fuel (R+M)/2.

2Values shown are nominal. Performance may vary by country and region.

3Standard and optional fuel systems may vary by country.

4See motorcycle owner's manual for complete details.

6Measurement reflects 180 lb. (81.7 kg) operator weight.

7North America security system includes immobilizer; outside North America the security system includes immobilizer and siren.

8Standard and optional wheels may vary by country and region.

Specifications, features and prices to change by manufacturer without notice. Information from Total Motorcycle.com; All information correct as of posted date.

2014 Harley Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom Review

Source: https://www.totalmotorcycle.com/motorcycles/2014models/2014-Harley-Davidson-XL1200C-1200Custom