Harley Davidson XL 1200C Sportster Custom (1998 – 99)

The Harley-Davidson XL 1200C Sportster Custom: a motorcycle that embodies the perfect blend of heritage and high-performance capability.

For decades, Harley-Davidson’s Sportsters have been renowned for their unique blend of style and substance, but with the introduction of the 1200S in 1996, the brand took a bold step towards redefining its iconic model line. By equipping the XL 1200C Sportster Custom with fully-adjustable sporting suspension, Harley-Davidson signaled its willingness to cater to riders who crave more than just boulevard cruising.

The result is a motorcycle that exudes raw power and agility, thanks in part to its potent Evolution engine, which produces a thrilling 88 lb-ft of torque. The addition of features like 13-spoke cast aluminum wheels, flat handlebars, and dual front brakes only serves to further enhance the riding experience, making this Sportster Custom an exhilarating companion for those who crave carving up twisty canyon roads.

With its potent performance and refined suspension, the Harley-Davidson XL 1200C Sportster Custom represents a thrilling evolution of the iconic Sportster line, poised to capture the hearts of riders who demand more from their machines.

Key Specifications

Engine Type	Four stroke, 45 V-Twin, OHV, 2 valves per cylinder.
Engine Capacity	1199 cc / 73.2 cub in.
Max Power	58.5 hp / 42.6 kW @ 5200 rpm
Max Torque	87 Nm / @ 3900 rpm
Fuel Tank Capacity	17 Litres / 4.5 gal
Weight (Wet/Kerb)	589 lbs / 267 kg
Seat Height	28.0 inches / 710.0 mm

*n/a – information not provided by manufacturer

All Specifications

Make & Model

Model	Harley Davidson XL 1200C Sportster Custom
Year	1998 – 99

Engine

Engine Type	Four stroke, 45 V-Twin, OHV, 2 valves per cylinder.
Displacement	1199 cc / 73.2 cub in.
Bore x Stroke	88.8 x 96.8 mm
Compression Ratio	9.7:1
Max Horsepower	58.5 hp / 42.6 kW @ 5200 rpm
Max Torque	87 Nm / @ 3900 rpm
Engine Management System	Carburetor
Cooling System	Air cooled,

Performance

Top Speed

n/a

*n/a – information not provided by manufacturer

Transmission

Gearbox	5 Speed
Gear Ratios	1st 9.647 9.315 9.004 2nd 6.891 6.653 6.432 3rd 5.125 4.948 4.783 4th 4.248 4.102 3.9655th 3.643 3.517 3.400
Final Drive	Belt

Electrical & Electronics System

Starter

Electric

Chassis & Suspension

Frame Type	Mild steel, tubular frame, circular sections, cast junctions Swingarm Mild steel, rectangular tube sections, stamped junctions, MIG welded
Front Suspension	39mm Forks
Rear Suspension	Coil-over, dual-adjustable preload
Rake	30
Trail	107 mm / 4.2 in

Wheels & Brakes

Front Tire Size	D402F MH90-21 54H
Rear Tire Size	D401 150/80B16 71H
Front Brakes	Single 292mm discs 2 piston caliper
Rear Brakes	Single 292mm disc 1 piston caliper

Dimension & Weights

Seat Height	28.0 inches / 710.0 mm
Wheelbase	1534 / 60.4 in
Ground Clearance	110 mm / 4.3 in
Fuel Tank Capacity	17 Litres / 4.5 gal
Wet (kerb/curb) Weight	589 lbs / 267 kg
Dry Weight	251 kg / 554 lbs

Features

Full-on adjustable sporting suspension
13-spoke cast aluminum wheels
Dunlop K591 Sport Elite tires
Flat, sport-styled handlebars
Sport-styled seat with textured insert and embroidered logo
Larger 3.3 gallon fuel tank
Dual front, floating-disc brakes
Five-speed Evolutions motor
Adjustable spring- and damping-adjustable suspension components
Showa suspension
Wide range of adjustments for suspension settings
Quick turn-in and loads of ground clearance
K591 tires grippy and fully up to the task
Best brakes on a stock Harley
1200cc Evo mill delivers smooth, torquey power
Light weight (497 lbs. dry)
High-contact-ratio gear set

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