What category is the 1988 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1200?

The 1988 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1200 has a Category of Classic.

What is the engine size of the 1988 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1200?

The 1988 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1200 has a Capacity: of 1198.00 ccm (73.10 cubic inches).

What type of engine does the 1988 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1200 have?

The 1988 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1200 has a Engine type of V2, four-stroke.

What is the engine power of the 1988 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1200?

The 1988 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1200 has a Power of 58.00.

Is the 1988 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1200 air cooled or liquid cooled?

The 1988 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1200 has a Cooling system of Air.

How many gears does the 1988 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1200 have?

The 1988 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1200 has a Gearbox of 4-speed.

How much does the 1988 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1200 weigh?

The 1988 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1200 has a Weight incl. oil, gas, etc of 222.0 kg (489.4 pounds).

Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1200 - 1988 Specifications and Reviews

Name: 1988 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1200
Brand: Harley-Davidson

The 1988 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1200 is an air-cooled cruiser suited for riders seeking classic American styling with accessible performance. Known for its nimble handling and manageable 58 horsepower V-twin, this middleweight appeals to both new and experienced riders valuing authentic Harley character over sheer power.

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1988

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General information
Category	Classic
Year	1988
Model	Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1200

Engine and Transmission Specifications
Transmission type,final drive	Chain
Gearbox	4-speed
Cooling system	Air
Fuel control	OHV
Valves per cylinder	2
Bore x stroke	88.8 x 96.8 mm (3.5 x 3.8 inches)
Compression	9.0:1
Power	58.00
Engine type	V2, four-stroke
Capacity:	1198.00 ccm (73.10 cubic inches)
Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels
Rear brakes	Single disc
Front brakes	Single disc
Rear tyre dimensions	MT 90-16
Front tyre dimensions	MJ 90-19
Physical measures and capacities
Fuel capacity	8.50 litres (2.25 gallons)
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc	222.0 kg (489.4 pounds)

Other specs
Maintenance	Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

5.8s

0-60 mph (est.)

Best For

Track15%

City55%

Cornering40%

Daily Riding60%

Touring55%

Passenger50%

Rider Profile

Best For	Suited to riders with at least some experience handling a heavy, torque-driven cruiser at low speeds.
Purpose	Built for relaxed, torque-rich cruising and classic American V-twin styling rather than outright speed or agility.
Rider Fit	The low seat height and mid-weight cruiser stance make it manageable for most body sizes, though its heft demands some upper-body strength at a standstill.
Character	A soulful, torque-heavy air-cooled V-twin with classic Sportster charm, favoring rumble and presence over performance.
Not Ideal For	Not the right choice for riders seeking sharp cornering ability, high-speed touring comfort, or any off-road capability.

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