Harley-Davidson XL1200C Sportster 1200 Custom - 2012 Specifications and Reviews
The 2012 Harley-Davidson XL1200C Sportster 1200 Custom is an entry-level cruiser designed for riders seeking classic American styling with manageable weight and accessible handling. Known for its iconic V-twin engine character, compact wheelbase, and low 26.5-inch seat height, it appeals to newer and smaller-framed riders. The bike excels as a stripped-down, customizable platform that balances authentic Harley heritage with modern convenience features like electronic diagnostics and reliable electric starting.
General information | |
| Category | Custom / cruiser |
| Year | 2012 |
| Model | Harley-Davidson XL1200C Sportster 1200 Custom |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Exhaust system | Chrome, staggered exhaust with slash-cut mufflers |
| Greenhouse gases | 113.7 CO |
| Fuel consumption | 4.90 litres/100 km (20.4 km/l or 48.00 mpg) |
| Driveline | Chain primary drive, 57/38 ratio |
| Clutch | Multi-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath |
| Transmission type,final drive | Belt |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Cooling system | Air |
| Lubrication system | Dry-sump |
| Fuel system | Injection. Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) |
| Bore x stroke | 88.9 x 96.8 mm (3.5 x 3.8 inches) |
| Compression | 9.7:1 |
| Torque | 107.12 Nm (10.9 kgf-m or 79.0 ft.lbs) @ 4000 |
| Engine details | Air-cooled, Evolution Pushrod-operated, overhead valves with hydraulic, self-adjusting lifters; two valves per cylinder |
| Engine type | V2, four-stroke |
| Capacity: | 1201.25 ccm (73.30 cubic inches) |
| | |
Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels | |
| Wheels | Chrome, 5-Spoke Cast Aluminum |
| Rear brakes diameter | 260 mm (10.2 inches) |
| Rear brakes | Single disc. Single-piston |
| Front brakes diameter | 292 mm (11.5 inches) |
| Front brakes | Single disc. Dual-piston |
| Rear tyre dimensions | 150/80-B16 |
| Front tyre dimensions | 130/90-B16 |
| Rear suspension travel | 54 mm (2.1 inches) |
| Rear suspension | Mild steel, rectangular tube section, stamped junctions, MIG welded swing-arm. Coil-over; preload dual-adjustable shocks. |
| Front suspension travel | 105 mm (4.1 inches) |
| Front suspension | 39 mm |
| Trail | 107 mm (4.2 inches) |
| Rake (fork angle) | 29.9° |
| Frame type | Mild steel, tubular frame; circular sections; cast junctions |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Oil capacity | 2.60 litres (0.17 quarts) |
| Fuel capacity | 17.03 litres (4.50 gallons) |
| Wheelbase | 1,521 mm (59.9 inches) |
| Ground clearance | 112 mm (4.4 inches) |
| Overall length | 2,220 mm (87.4 inches) |
| Seat height | 676 mm (26.6 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Weight incl. oil, gas, etc | 264.0 kg (582.0 pounds) |
| Dry weight | 250.8 kg (553.0 pounds) |
| | |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Color options | Vivid Black, Big Blue Pearl, Brilliant Silver Pearl, Two-Tone Ember Red Sunglo/Merlot Sunglo |
| Factory warranty | 24 months, unlimited mileage. |
| Seat | Two-up seat is standard with 26.5 inch laden seat height |
| Electrical | Sealed lead acid battery, maintenance-free, 12V, 12 amp/hour, 200 cca. |
| Instruments | Handlebar-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 |
| Starter | Electric |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
5.8s
0-60 mph (est.)
Best For
Track10%
City55%
Cornering30%
Daily Riding55%
Touring45%
Passenger55%
Rider Profile
| Best For | Suited to riders who already have basic experience with heavy, torque-driven cruisers rather than complete beginners. |
| Purpose | Built for laid-back boulevard cruising and style-focused short rides rather than outright speed or long-distance touring. |
| Rider Fit | The low seat height and relaxed forward-control ergonomics make it accessible, but its substantial weight demands confident low-speed handling. |
| Character | A classic, torque-rich custom cruiser that rewards a relaxed throttle hand and a taste for V-twin rumble and chrome styling over aggressive performance. |
| Not Ideal For | Not a good fit for riders seeking sharp cornering ability, off-road capability, or high-speed performance. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
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