Harley-Davidson 1200 Sportster Sport - 1998 Specifications and Reviews

The 1998 Harley-Davidson 1200 Sportster Sport is an accessible custom cruiser that appeals to riders seeking classic styling with nimble handling. Its 1199cc V-twin engine delivers responsive torque for urban riding and weekend cruising. Known for its comfortable seat height and manageable weight, it remains an ideal entry point into the Harley brand.

1998
3.5 stars Average rating: 3.5 from 4 votes
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General information

CategoryCustom / cruiser
Year1998
ModelHarley-Davidson 1200 Sportster Sport

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Transmission typefinal driveBelt
Gearbox5-speed
Cooling systemAir
StarterElectric
Valves per cylinder2
Torque90.00
Power61.00
Stroke4
Engine typeV2
Capacity:1199.00 ccm (73.16 cubic inches)
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Seat height734 mm (28.9 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Dry weight227.0 kg (500.4 pounds)

Harley-Davidson 1200 Sportster Sport dimensions and frame

Rear brakesSingle disc
Front brakesDual disc

Speed and acceleration

Power/weight ratio0.2687 HP/kg
Top speed160.0 km/h (99.4 mph)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

61 hp
Peak Power
5.5s
0-60 mph
99.4 mph
Top Speed

Best For

Track20%
City60%
Cornering55%
Daily Riding60%
Touring45%
Passenger40%

Rider Profile

Best ForSuits riders from intermediate skill level upward who want a torquey V-twin with manageable weight rather than an outright beginner bike or a hyper-fast machine.
PurposeBest suited for spirited road riding, weekend backroad cruising, and short-to-medium trips where character and feel matter more than outright speed.
Rider FitThe low seat height and moderate dry weight make it approachable for shorter or less physically strong riders compared to bigger touring cruisers.
CharacterA classic air-cooled V-twin cruiser with sporty Sportster styling, offering punchy low-end torque, a raw mechanical feel, and belt-drive simplicity over high-tech refinement.
Not Ideal ForNot the right choice for riders seeking high top-speed performance, long-distance touring comfort with a passenger, or any serious off-road capability.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

1998 Harley-Davidson 1200 Sportster Sport Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 734mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 1998 Harley-Davidson 1200 Sportster Sport, with a cramped knee angle of around 80 degrees and an upright riding position.

Data quality: estimated (wheelbase estimated from this category's typical bike, not this model's own spec). Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

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