Harley-Davidson XL 1200L Sportster 1200 Low - 2011 Specifications and Reviews

The 2011 Harley-Davidson XL 1200L Sportster 1200 Low is a classic cruiser built for riders seeking authentic, stripped-down motorcycle culture with a low-slung riding position. Powered by the legendary 1201cc Evolution V-twin engine producing 107 Nm of torque, it delivers reliable performance and iconic Harley character. Known for its accessible handling, customizable platform, and timeless appeal to both cruiser enthusiasts and younger riders entering the Harley lifestyle.

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General information

CategoryCustom / cruiser
Year2011
ModelHarley-Davidson XL 1200L Sportster 1200 Low

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Exhaust systemChrome, staggered shorty exhaust with dual mufflers
Greenhouse gases110.2 CO
Fuel consumption4.75 litres/100 km (21.1 km/l or 49.52 mpg)
DrivelinePrimary Drive Chain, 57/38 ratio. Final Drive Belt, 68/29 ratio.
ClutchMulti-plate, wet
Transmission type,final driveBelt
Gearbox5-speed
Cooling systemAir
Lubrication systemDry-sump
Fuel controlOHV
Fuel systemInjection. Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Valves per cylinder2
Bore x stroke88.9 x 96.8 mm (3.5 x 3.8 inches)
Compression9.7:1
Torque107.00 Nm (10.9 kgf-m or 78.9 ft.lbs) @ 4000
Engine detailsEvolution engine. Pushrod-operated, overhead valves with hydraulic, self-adjusting lifters.
Engine typeV2, four-stroke
Capacity:1201.25 ccm (73.30 cubic inches)
 
 

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

WheelsBlack, 13-Spoke Cast Aluminum
Rear brakes diameter260 mm (10.2 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc. Patented, uniform expansion rotors. Single-piston.
Front brakes diameter292 mm (11.5 inches)
Front brakesSingle disc. Patented, uniform expansion rotors. Dual-piston.
Rear tyre dimensions150/80-16
Front tyre dimensions100/90-19
Rear suspension travel105 mm (4.1 inches)
Rear suspensionCoil-over, preload dual-adjustable
Front suspension travel105 mm (4.1 inches)
Front suspension39 mm fork
Trail145 mm (5.7 inches)
Rake (fork angle)30.4°
Frame typeMild steel, tubular frame; circular sections; cast junctions.
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Oil capacity2.80 litres (0.18 quarts)
Fuel capacity17.03 litres (4.50 gallons)
Wheelbase1,527 mm (60.1 inches)
Ground clearance112 mm (4.4 inches)
Overall width894 mm (35.2 inches)
Overall length2,263 mm (89.1 inches)
Overall height1,189 mm (46.8 inches)
Seat height668 mm (26.3 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc263.5 kg (581.0 pounds)
Dry weight252.7 kg (557.0 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
Color optionsVivid Black, Cool Blue Pearl, Merlot Sunglo
Factory warranty24 months, unlimited mileage. (US)
ElectricalSealed lead acid, maintenance-free batery, 12V, 12 amp/hour, 200 cca. 30-amp, permanent magnet, single-phase alternator with solid-state regulator.
Light55-watt low beam, 60-watt high beam
InstrumentsHandlebar-mounted electronic speedometer with odometer, time-of-day clock odometer, dual tripmeter, low fuel warning light, low oil pressure light, engine diagnostics readout, LED indicator lightsHandlebar-mounted electronic speedometer with odometer, tim
StarterElectric

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

5.8s
0-60 mph (est.)

Best For

Track10%
City60%
Cornering35%
Daily Riding60%
Touring40%
Passenger40%

Rider Profile

Best ForSuited to riders from novice to intermediate who want a low, easy-to-manage cruiser without steep learning curves.
PurposeBuilt for relaxed cruising, boulevard riding, and short-to-medium trips rather than outright speed or long-distance touring.
Rider FitThe very low seat height and low center of gravity make it easy for shorter riders or those wanting confident flat-footed stops.
CharacterA classic torque-driven V-twin cruiser that delivers laid-back, thumping power with strong low-end pull rather than high-rev excitement.
Not Ideal ForNot a good fit for riders seeking sharp cornering agility, off-road capability, or serious high-speed touring performance.

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

Rider Fit Visualizer

2011 Harley-Davidson XL 1200L Sportster 1200 Low Rider Ergonomics Assessment

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

Feet:

At 668mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2011 Harley-Davidson XL 1200L Sportster 1200 Low, with a cramped knee angle of around 70 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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