Harley-Davidson XL 1200 C Sportster Custom - 2004 Specifications and Reviews

The 2004 Harley-Davidson XL 1200 C Sportster Custom is a middleweight cruiser built for riders seeking classic American styling with manageable performance. Its 1202cc air-cooled V-twin delivers accessible power through a 5-speed belt drive, making it ideal for both experienced cruiser enthusiasts and those transitioning to larger bikes. Known for its aggressive custom aesthetics and nimble handling characteristics, it balances authentic Harley DNA with approachable rideability.

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General information

CategoryCustom / cruiser
Year2004
ModelHarley-Davidson XL 1200 C Sportster Custom
 
 

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Transmission type,final driveBelt
Gearbox5-speed
Cooling systemAir
Fuel systemCarburettor
Valves per cylinder2
Bore x stroke88.8 x 96.8 mm (3.5 x 3.8 inches)
Compression10.0:1
Torque93.00 Nm (9.5 kgf-m or 68.6 ft.lbs) @ 3300
Engine typeV2, four-stroke
Capacity:1202.00 ccm (73.35 cubic inches)

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

Rear brakes diameter292 mm (11.5 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc
Front brakes diameter292 mm (11.5 inches)
Front brakesSingle disc
Rear tyre dimensions150/80-16
Front tyre dimensions90/90-21
Trail119 mm (4.7 inches)
Rake (fork angle)30.1°

Physical measures and capacities

Reserve fuel capacity17.00 litres (4.49 gallons)
Wheelbase1,520 mm (59.8 inches)
Ground clearance112 mm (4.4 inches)
Overall length2,275 mm (89.6 inches)
Seat height668 mm (26.3 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Dry weight255.0 kg (562.2 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
Color optionsVivid black, brilliant silver, sierra red, impact blue, luxury blue, glacier white pearl, lava red sunglo, two-tone impact blue and vivid black, two-tone luxury teal and brilliant silver, two-tone sierra red and brilliant silver, two-tone smokey gold and

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

6.5s
0-60 mph (est.)

Best For

Track5%
City55%
Cornering35%
Daily Riding55%
Touring45%
Passenger40%

Rider Profile

Best ForSuits riders with at least some experience handling a heavy, low-slung cruiser, though the manageable size makes it approachable for confident newer riders too.
PurposeBuilt for laid-back boulevard cruising and style-focused short rides rather than outright speed or long-distance touring.
Rider FitThe low 673mm seat height and relaxed, feet-forward custom ergonomics suit shorter riders and those who prefer a low center of gravity over sport-bike lean.
CharacterA classic air-cooled V-twin cruiser with punchy low-end torque, a raw mechanical exhaust note, and unmistakable custom Sportster styling.
Not Ideal ForNot the right choice for riders wanting sharp cornering agility, 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.

Rider Fit Visualizer

2004 Harley-Davidson XL 1200 C Sportster Custom 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 2004 Harley-Davidson XL 1200 C Sportster Custom, 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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