Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two - 2016 Specifications and Reviews

The 2016 Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two is a retro-styled cruiser that appeals to riders seeking classic aesthetics with modern reliability. Known for its low-slung stance, whitewall tires, and vintage appeal, it delivers accessible power and manageable weight ideal for intermediate riders. The 730mm seat height and comfortable ergonomics make it suitable for a wide range of rider sizes and experience levels.

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General information

CategoryCustom / cruiser
Year2016
ModelHarley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two
 
 

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Exhaust systemChrome dual shorty exhaust. Closed loop.
Greenhouse gases113.7 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Fuel consumption4.90 litres/100 km (20.4 km/l or 48.00 mpg)
DrivelinePrimary chain, 57/38 ratio
ClutchMulti-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath
Transmission type,final driveBelt
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemAir
Lubrication systemDry sump
Fuel systemInjection
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) @ 3500 RPM
Power65.71 HP (48.0 kW) @ 6000 RPM
Engine detailsEvolution® engine, rubber-mounted. Aluminum heads and cylinders.
Engine typeV2, four-stroke

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

WheelsCustom Whitewall Tires
Rear brakesSingle disc. Single-piston. Optional ABS.
Front brakesSingle disc. Dual-piston. Optional ABS.
Rear tyre150/80-B16
Front tyreMH90-21
Rear SuspensionTwin shocks
Front SuspensionTelescopic fork
Trail135 mm (5.3 inches)
Rake (fork angle)32.0°
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Oil capacity2.60 litres (0.17 quarts)
Fuel capacity7.90 litres (2.09 gallons)
Wheelbase1,540 mm (60.6 inches)
Ground clearance130 mm (5.1 inches)
Overall length2,275 mm (89.6 inches)
Seat height730 mm (28.7 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Power/weight ratio0.2618 HP/kg
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc257.0 kg (566.6 pounds)
Dry weight251.0 kg (553.4 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, dual tripmeter, low fuel warning light, low oil pressure light, engine diagnostics readout, LED indicator lights
StarterElectric
Color optionsBlack Quartz

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

65.7 hp
Peak Power
5.8s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track10%
City55%
Cornering30%
Daily Riding55%
Touring35%
Passenger30%

Rider Profile

Best ForSuits riders from mid-level beginners to experienced cruiser fans who want a low, stylish, easygoing machine rather than outright performance.
PurposeBuilt for laid-back boulevard cruising, short highway jaunts, and pure visual custom style with a fat front tire and blacked-out attitude.
Rider FitThe very low 730mm seat height and manageable weight make it approachable for shorter riders, though the wide front tire adds some effort to low-speed steering.
CharacterA stripped-down, muscular custom cruiser that trades cornering agility and top-end speed for torque-rich low-rev grunt and unmistakable Sportster attitude.
Not Ideal ForNot a good fit for riders wanting sharp cornering performance, serious long-distance 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

2016 Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two Rider Ergonomics Assessment

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

Feet:

At 730mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2016 Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two, with a cramped knee angle of around 80 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.

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