Harley-Davidson Sporster 1200 Custom - 2016 Specifications and Reviews

The 2016 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom appeals to riders seeking an accessible, middleweight cruiser with classic styling and proven reliability. Known for its manageable 1200cc air-cooled engine delivering 96 Nm of torque, responsive handling with its 30-degree rake, and iconic Harley character, it suits both experienced cruiser enthusiasts and newer riders seeking authentic American motorcycle heritage.

Not Rated stars Average rating: Not Rated from 0 votes
.

General information

CategoryCustom / cruiser
Year2016
ModelHarley-Davidson Sporster 1200 Custom
 
 

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Exhaust systemChrome, staggered exhaust with slash-cut mufflers
Greenhouse gases113.7 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Fuel consumption4.90 litres/100 km (20.4 km/l or 48.00 mpg)
ClutchMulti-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath
Transmission type,final driveBelt
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemAir
Lubrication systemDry sump
Fuel systemInjection. Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Bore x Stroke88.9 x 96.8 mm (3.5 x 3.8 inches)
Compression10.0:1
Torque96.00 Nm (9.8 kgf-m or 70.8 ft.lbs) @ 3750 RPM
Power68.00 HP (49.6 kW) @ 5750 RPM
Engine detailsAir-cooled, Evolution®
Engine typeV2, four-stroke

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

WheelsChrome, 5-Spoke Cast Aluminum
Rear brakesSingle disc. Dual piston, optional ABS.
Front brakesSingle disc. Dual piston, optional ABS.
Rear tyre150/80-B16
Front tyre130/90-B16
Rear SuspensionTwin shocks
Front SuspensionTelescopic fork
Trail107 mm (4.2 inches)
Rake (fork angle)30.0°

Physical measures and capacities

Oil capacity2.60 litres (0.17 quarts)
Fuel capacity2.80 litres (0.74 gallons)
Wheelbase1,530 mm (60.2 inches)
Ground clearance112 mm (4.4 inches)
Overall length2,220 mm (87.4 inches)
Seat height676 mm (26.6 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Power/weight ratio0.2667 HP/kg
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc268.0 kg (590.8 pounds)
Dry weight255.0 kg (562.2 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
LightHigh beam, neutral, low oil pressure, turn signals, engine diagnostics, low fuel warning, low battery, security system (optional)
InstrumentsHandlebar-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
StarterElectric
Color optionsSuperial Blue, Mysterious Red Sunglo/Velocity Red Sunglo, Amber Whiskey, Vivid Black, Deep Jade Pearl/Vivid Black, Charcoal Pearl

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

67.1 hp
Peak Power
5.2s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track10%
City55%
Cornering35%
Daily Riding60%
Touring42%
Passenger40%

Rider Profile

Best ForThis bike suits riders from newer enthusiasts to seasoned cruiser fans who want a manageable, low-slung V-twin rather than outright performance.
PurposeIt's built for relaxed boulevard cruising and style-focused riding rather than speed or long-distance touring comfort.
Rider FitThe very low seat height and low center of gravity make it approachable for shorter riders, though the wide bars and forward stance suit a laid-back riding posture.
CharacterIt delivers the classic Harley experience: thumping air-cooled V-twin torque, chrome styling, and a relaxed, unhurried personality rather than sharp handling.
Not Ideal ForThis isn't the right bike for riders seeking sport-bike agility, aggressive cornering, off-road capability, or serious long-haul touring range.

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

Rider Fit Visualizer

2016 Harley-Davidson Sporster 1200 Custom Rider Ergonomics Assessment

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

Feet:

At 676mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2016 Harley-Davidson Sporster 1200 Custom, with a cramped knee angle of around 75 degrees and an upright riding position.

Data quality: measured. 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.

Find bikes that fit your height →

Rider Reviews

Add a Comment


Please Login or Register if you would like to leave a comment.