Harley-Davidson XL 1200N Nightster - 2011 Specifications and Reviews

The 2011 Harley-Davidson XL 1200N Nightster is a stripped-down custom cruiser built for riders seeking an authentic, minimalist riding experience. Powered by the legendary air-cooled 1201cc Evolution V-twin engine delivering robust mid-range torque, this bike excels at delivering classic cruiser character with straightforward performance. Known for its raw simplicity, agile handling for its class, and iconic Harley styling, the Nightster appeals to purists who value form and function over complexity.

2011
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General information

CategoryCustom / cruiser
Year2011
ModelHarley-Davidson XL 1200N Nightster

Engine and Transmission Specifications

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 detailsAir-cooled Evolution 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, Laced Steel
Rear brakesSingle disc. Single-piston.
Front brakesSingle disc. Dual-piston.
Rear tyre dimensions100/90-19
Rear suspension travel41 mm (1.6 inches)
Rear suspensionCoil-over
Front suspension travel92 mm (3.6 inches)
Front suspension39 mm
Trail117 mm (4.6 inches)
Rake (fork angle)30.4°
Frame typeMild steel, tubular frame; circular
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Oil capacity2.80 litres (0.18 quarts)
Fuel capacity12.49 litres (3.30 gallons)
Wheelbase1,519 mm (59.8 inches)
Ground clearance99 mm (3.9 inches)
Overall width925 mm (36.4 inches)
Overall length2,179 mm (85.8 inches)
Overall height1,107 mm (43.6 inches)
Seat height653 mm (25.7 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc254.9 kg (562.0 pounds)
Dry weight247.2 kg (545.0 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
Color optionsVivid Black, Cool Blue Pearl, Scarlet Red/Vivid Black, Psychedelic Purple/Vivid Black, Apple Green/Vivid Black
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 on odometer, dual tripmeter, low fuel warning light, low oil pressure light, engine diagnostics readout, LED indicator lightsHandlebar-mounted electronic speedometer with odometer,
StarterElectric

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

5s
0-60 mph (est.)

Best For

Track10%
City55%
Cornering40%
Daily Riding55%
Touring30%
Passenger25%

Rider Profile

Best ForSuits riders from intermediate upward who want an accessible, torquey V-twin cruiser without a steep learning curve.
PurposeBuilt for stylish, low-slung urban and weekend cruising rather than outright speed or long-distance touring.
Rider FitThe very low seat height and manageable weight make it approachable for shorter or less experienced riders, though limited suspension travel means bumps are felt more directly.
CharacterA raw, minimalist Nightster with punchy low-end torque, classic Evolution V-twin thump, and stripped-down custom styling that rewards relaxed, laid-back riding.
Not Ideal ForNot the right choice for riders seeking sport-bike agility, off-road capability, or comfortable long-haul two-up touring.

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

Rider Fit Visualizer

2011 Harley-Davidson XL 1200N Nightster Rider Ergonomics Assessment

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

Feet:

At 653mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2011 Harley-Davidson XL 1200N Nightster, 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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