What category is the 1997 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom?

The 1997 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom has a Category of Custom / cruiser.

What is the engine size of the 1997 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom?

The 1997 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom has a Capacity: of 1199.00 ccm (73.16 cubic inches).

What type of engine does the 1997 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom have?

The 1997 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom has a Engine type of V2.

What is the engine power of the 1997 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom?

The 1997 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom has a Power of 58.00.

What is the torque of the 1997 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom?

The 1997 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom has a Torque of 89.00.

Is the 1997 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom air cooled or liquid cooled?

The 1997 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom has a Cooling system of Air.

How many gears does the 1997 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom have?

The 1997 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom has a Gearbox of 5-speed.

How much does the 1997 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom weigh?

The 1997 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom has a Dry weight of 222.0 kg (489.4 pounds).

What is the seat height of the 1997 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom?

The 1997 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom has a Seat height of 688 mm (27.1 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting..

What is the top speed of the 1997 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom?

The 1997 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom has a Top speed of 160.0 km/h (99.4 mph).

Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom - 1997 Specifications and Reviews

Name: 1997 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom
Brand: Harley-Davidson

The 1997 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom delivers classic cruiser styling with accessible performance, making it ideal for riders seeking an authentic Harley experience. Its air-cooled 1199cc V-twin engine produces solid low-end torque favored for relaxed, commanding rides. Known for its nimble handling and customization potential, this model appeals to both entry-level and experienced riders.

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1997

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General information
Category	Custom / cruiser
Year	1997
Model	Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom

Engine and Transmission Specifications
Transmission typefinal drive	Belt
Gearbox	5-speed
Cooling system	Air
Starter	Electric
Valves per cylinder	2
Torque	89.00
Power	58.00
Stroke	4
Engine type	V2
Capacity:	1199.00 ccm (73.16 cubic inches)

Physical measures and capacities
Seat height	688 mm (27.1 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Dry weight	222.0 kg (489.4 pounds)
Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom dimensions and frame
Front brakes	Single disc
Speed and acceleration
Power/weight ratio	0.2613 HP/kg
Top speed	160.0 km/h (99.4 mph)
Other specs
Maintenance	Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

67 hp

Peak Power

5.2s

0-60 mph

99.4 mph

Top Speed

Best For

Track10%

City55%

Cornering35%

Daily Riding60%

Touring45%

Passenger40%

Rider Profile

Best For	Suited to riders who have at least some experience with heavy, low-slung cruisers and want a classic V-twin custom rather than outright performance.
Purpose	Built for relaxed boulevard cruising, weekend rides, and showing off classic custom styling rather than for speed or sport riding.
Rider Fit	The low 725mm seat height makes it accessible to shorter riders, though the substantial 268kg wet weight demands confident low-speed handling and strength when maneuvering it off the throttle.
Character	A laid-back, torque-driven cruiser with the classic thump of an air-cooled Evolution V-twin, prioritizing style, sound, and cruising comfort over agility or acceleration.
Not Ideal For	Not for riders seeking sharp cornering ability, high-speed touring comfort, or any kind of off-road capability.

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

Rider Fit Visualizer

1997 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom Rider Ergonomics Assessment

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Feet:

At 688mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 1997 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom, with a cramped knee angle of around 75 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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