Harley-Davidson Sportster XR 1200 X review

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The sports eagle born under X

Bourbon Racer Cafe Pusher

Chrome, cruising, slow riding … the first impressions of the American brand hardly refer to sport. And yet … legends of the rings of Dirt Track US, the legendary XR 750 competition machines, have accumulated more victories in these events than any other competitor.. In 1983, a first production version, the XR 1000, which had been trickled down, paved the way for a more dynamic model … Harley style. If the engine gave voice, the cycle part did not compete with Japanese machines.

In an attempt to break into the European market in the roadster segment, the Milwaukee firm presented the XR 1200 at the start of 2008. This once again draws its lines from the brand’s sporting heritage but also uses new codes. more transgenic. Moderately received by the usual somewhat conservative clientele, it is also lost in the midst of a plethora of quality offerings. The XR is then quickly overhauled in part cycle, in order to claim, from 2010, to more than an esteemed success.

Harley-Davidson Sportster XR 1200 X

Discovery

At first glance, the XR 1200 X of course makes the genes speak, both sporty and historic. A Harley roadster remains above all a Davidson. Thus, its design is based on the front part of a steel frame of XL1200 Sportster. But … we quickly perceive a new style for a machine across the Atlantic. Compact, its casing adopts much more modern lines. We immediately perceive the vermilion touches of the ignition wires, the shock absorber springs and the edging of the cast aluminum rims, contrasting with the matte black finish of the engine..

Raised rear shell and grouped exhaust mufflers follow this dynamic. The profile of the machine, without being aggressive, imposes a feeling of movement. Especially since its general finesse makes it all the higher visually.

Harley-Davidson Sportster XR 1200 X from above

A sort of bourbon cafe racer, the design mixing tradition and modernity gives pride of place to elegant minimalism and numerous aesthetic gestures. Admire the unique and reduced round optic, overhung by a cap, inlaid between the triple trees of the new Showa inverted fork, 43 mm in diameter. Slender, the radiator is fixed vertically, on the left front of the cradle of the frame. The old-fashioned turn signals, suspended from the handlebars, respond to the reflectors placed on the front suspension sleeves, adjustable in compression and rebound.

On the right side, the tank is joined by a finely meshed air inlet where the filter can be seen. The rear buckle, specific, receives a double seat but no grab handle other than the regulatory strap. The two rear suspension units are attached to either side, easily adjustable in preload via a dial. These elements dampen the movements of the aesthetic cast aluminum swingarm. This attractive foundry piece receives the same matt surface treatment, applied to the aluminum elements of this model, such as the engine casings stamped with the name Sporster.

Harley-Davidson Sportster XR 1200 X Tank

The unmistakable twin-cylinder V at 45 °, rocked with 2 valves per cylinder and air-cooled imposes its recognizable plastic above all. Of the Evolution type, also known under the name of Blockhead and injected since 2007, the twin is mounted on rubber supports which now filter the dreaded vibrations of the block much better. Its fins with polished edges finely cut the dark mass of aluminum cylinders and heads, lightening its lines. This vast 1202 cm3 core develops a power of 91 hp at 7000 rpm (beginning of the red zone) but offers a maximum torque of 10.2 m.kg from 3,700 revolutions / minute. To contain these all-American mechanical effusions, the front braking is now based on two fixed 4-piston calipers and 292mm discs. Single piston rear element grips a 260mm wafer.

Harley-Davidson Sportster XR 1200 X engine

Stripped on the left side, the right flank is dressed in the meanders of the large collectors, flowing into two thin and long silencers. These, fixed to the frame by a strong steel bracket, overhang the traditional final transmission by toothed belt..

Harley-Davidson Sportster XR 1200 X engine

If there are a few rare pods still visible, the equipment and the plastics of the caches are rewarding. Sober but refined, the finish of the whole is of a high level, some elements displaying, in addition, a reassuring oversize.

In the saddle

If for a Harley Sporster the seat is high, for a roadster, the 742 mm at which the saddle peaks are rather pleasant. In addition, its comfort is very correct. On board, too, tradition competes with a more contemporary style. Aviation-type, the fuel cap does not lock with a key … The innovative and aesthetic oil level control system takes place under the right thigh.

The American is full of details specific to her Wisconsin genetics. Thus, the switch is always on the right, near the steering column. More usual, an electronic immobilizer detects the presence of the key ring by transponder. A second barrel allows the steering to be blocked. Refined detail, the frame also receives a slight recess to let the fingers pass…

Harley-Davidson Sportster XR 1200 X

The general position, very straight bust and little leg flexion, immediately reminds you that you ride more on a Milwaukee machine than on a Japanese standard. A wide handlebars with raised horns generously accommodates the arms of the pilot. Barely hiding the hydraulic adjustment systems of the fork, this handlebar is fixed to the upper triple tree by an aesthetic aluminum plate. As for the counter unit, its ergonomics are as indisputable as they are spartan. It consists of a remote digital tachometer on the left and a central tachometer with a white background, very readable, enclosing an LCD window. This screen, via a button on the back of the instruments, displays the time, two partials and an odometer. Simple and efficient.

Speedometer Harley-Davidson Sportster XR 1200 X

Particularly well designed, the commodos offer an unusual indicator interface with a dedicated command for each. Automatic, the recall is also done by pressing again the button used. The circuit breaker is adjacent to the starter motor and may take on a more conspicuous tint to be more recognizable. Discreet and refined, hydraulic brake and mirror jars complete a first-rate on-board presentation. However, mirrors only partially reflect the environment, failing to vibrate.

In the city

It is time to fold up the long crutch, necessarily typed, of the XR 1200 X. This lateral is almost wedged under the engine, not simplifying its redeployment. The weight is immediately noticeable but placed quite low. Combined with an acceptable turning radius, the 260 kilos in running order can however be maneuvered without difficulty, engine off.

Harley-Davidson Sportster XR 1200 X in town

The big twin is quickly awakened by the deep cough of the starter. Compliant with European standards, the sound escaping from the flutes is much more muffled than what the brand can claim. Ditto for the vibrations, finally little marked since the adoption of silent block. In fact, we can now hear the mechanical noises of engine parts. Lightened, they ring more clearly. However, traditions are saved, the front wheel still twitching to the discordant rhythm of the ignition..

The "agricultural" universe catches up with the pilot when the first is triggered. Manly and sound, the box requires a good ankle. Starting off smoothly, the American plays the discreet star between the vehicles, squeezing naturally despite the somewhat wide handlebars. The turn signal controls are less effective than their German counterparts. Too high on the commodos, they require a difficult wrist gymkhana, particularly to hold the throttle grip.

Harley-Davidson Sportster XR 1200 X

Despite long gears, the consequence of a 5-speed gearbox, the twin is pleasantly flexible even in the last gears, at less than 2,000 rpm. The XR 1200 X is an attractive toy, proving to be a good girl in these urban spaces. We take full advantage of a pleasant driving position and a smooth and available engine architecture. The eagle, however, deserves to spread its wings over wider spaces, consistent with its origins.

Motorway and expressways

A slight inertia, quite legendary, does not prevent this XR 1200 X from quickly reaching the legal cruising pace. The mechanics then gently hammer the space at 4,500 rpm. With, unfortunately for some and with happiness for others, vibrations propagating in the footrests and the handlebars. On long journeys, they could prove to be annoying in the long run, for who would agree to play the star-spangled banners. Gearing up in the wind, arms outstretched, limits incursions on expressways and at higher speeds. Able to hang 200 km / h at the top of the tachometer, the machine quickly becomes tiring before that.

Harley-Davidson Sportster XR 1200 X

But the excellent health of the Milwaukee block keeps the crew happy with every twist of the throttle, throughout the available rev range. Box 5 finds here a remarkable approval. Without being dazzling, the acceleration is frank from 3,000 laps, or 90 km / h on the last report. And beyond, the machine pulls firmly and continuously up to the red zone.

The complete lack of protection to the air flow will quickly direct our beauty from Wisconsin to the secondary network. His genes invite him just as much as the aerodynamic laws.

Departmental

Riding the myth then takes on its full meaning. Although slightly Europeanized in style, the Sport Harley retains the unmistakable charm of its sisters. Ignoring the standards, the US roadster does not impose a geometry that conforms to that of the segment. Its finesse is surprising, forcing you to squeeze your legs more than usual to hold it. No tilting forward, the rider feels a pronounced liveliness when pressing on the footrests, combined with those applied to the handlebars. It’s time to check out the dynamic abilities of this XR when driven at the right pace.

Harley-Davidson Sportster XR 1200 X

The Sporster XR1200X then reveals its true false villain personality. The legend of the Oval Speed ​​Across the Atlantic does not like being rough, nor do the rough lines. Pilotage must be sunk. Otherwise, the 1200 X betrays a blurred direction on the angle and shows a perfectible basic adjustment of its new suspensions. The latter, moreover, perfectly filter the roughness of the roads but the rear combined retain a dry reaction on large compressions. Slowed down in hydraulics, the XR is then more precise but remains below the Sino-European competition because of its geometry. The caster angle of 28.9 °, more conducive to stability than liveliness, and a high-perched column signify a cycle part closer to family components.

We wind at a good pace on the handlebars of a legend with limited sportiness but very decent dynamic performance. This will see its character transcended by the different preparations offered by the brand. Thus, switching to Stage 1 or 2 makes it possible to modify a certain number of components such as the air filter, the mapping of the EFI or the exhausts with a completely new and particularly profitable breath..

In order to comply with Euro 3 standards, a 2007 vintage Harley-Davidson operates with a very lean mixture (14.7: 1) at idle and at cruising speeds (around 3000 rpm) which, among other things, heats up the vehicle enormously. Milwaukee V-Twin. Experts agree that such an engine works best with air / fuel ratios between 13 and 13.5: 1 without significantly increasing fuel consumption but significantly lowering engine temperature. Almost “compulsory”, the Americans call this modification: “Harley tax”. Stage 1 does not require any modification to the engine. The goal is simply to get the air-fuel mixture in more and more quickly and to eliminate the exhaust gases produced by combustion more quickly..
We gain through this a few additional horses and torque but above all a much more authentic sound. Originally, the 10.2 m.kg of torque, available from 3,700 rpm, however, gives ample satisfaction, effectively boosting the crew when exiting a curve.

Harley-Davidson Sportster XR 1200 X

From tight turns to faster turns, the charm kicks in and you test the limits of a much less traditional ground clearance. The XR 1200 X takes a lot more angle than its siblings, to our delight. Equipped with Dunlop Sportmax Qualifier tires, but bearing the name of the American firm, its handling is also safe. Another factor of joy, the front calipers offer particularly powerful braking. Gradual, it will still be necessary to be careful on wet roads. A pressure of the lever barely more marked then brings an almost unknown bite in the range.

Harley-Davidson Sportster XR 1200 X

Part-cycle

Less marked than that of the rest of the range, the general cycle part of the XR is still largely derived. However, new triple trees, quality suspensions and better ground clearance give it much greater dynamic capabilities. Once set, the damping is effective, both in terms of comfort and dynamics.

Harley-Davidson Sportster XR 1200 X

Braking

The thick levers seem to warn of the performance of on-board equipment. The measured attack of the calipers should not obscure the great deceleration power that may surprise regulars of the brand. The mass transfer remains contained given the profile of the machine.

Harley-Davidson Sportster XR 1200 X

Comfort / Duo

A Sporster, especially the XR, is a rebel motorcycle. Profile that does not adapt well to the company of a passenger. If you doubt it, Miss X will remind you. Exclusive, it will charge dearly for the recklessness of a possible attendant insisting on landing on the square of foam, adorning the end of the rear hull. This folding seat hides a small empty pocket just as anecdotal as the duo is on this machine. Too bad, the passenger footrests are positioned at an acceptable height.

Seat and comfort Harley-Davidson Sportster XR 1200 X

Consumption

6.7 liters per 100 and a 13.5-liter tank (including 3.5 reserve) … The steps will be brief before going to the saloon. This also applies to the pilot who will be able to admire his mount. The XR 1200 X being a pleasure machine and not a road, we easily forgive this need to take its time.

Harley-Davidson Sportster XR 1200 X

Conclusion

Like its two-world design, the XR blends codes while remaining a true Harley. Surprisingly charming and endowed with a devastating look, it successfully combines stylistic minimalism and abundance of amenities. Stripped but offering essential qualities, the Sporster X has retained the original character of the Milwaukee beauties while enhancing its dynamic qualities. Pleasant on a daily basis, we will reproach him with a little too marked contempt for this use: no place to take a U-shaped lock, indecent space under the saddle, absence of fuel gauge, tank cap without hinge … little would be enough to improve its reception.

Bitter, available for € 12,390, has little rival in this niche of vintage-sport and authentic modern flavor. This category of machine is aimed at lovers of fine mechanics and careful construction. The quality of manufacture, equipment and finish of the XR 1200 X explains the high price.

We can only oppose it with two machines: the classic English Triumph Thruxton 900, so smart, at € 9,740 and the Italian Moto Guzzi Griso, offered at € 12,490 in its special SE version (€ 11,990 as standard). The Transalpine is, in fact, its closest competitor, in terms of price, displacement and style. However, its chassis is much sharper and its twin-cylinder facing the road more efficient..

But it is above all legend, history and philosophy that we are talking about when we talk about these hundred-year-old builders. Buying a Harley, more than any other, is not about reason but about passion. It is the adhesion to an image and to a culture that then seals the choice. The glorious heritage of the XR here gives birth to a truly spellbinding machine. Since its evolution classified X, it now offers braking and cycle parts supporting the qualitative comparison with market standards. One more reason to become part of the legend and write your own record on its handlebars.

Strong points

  • Outstanding style
  • Motorization available
  • Powerful braking
  • Quality of cycle parts
  • Manufacturing quality and finish

Weak points

  • Perfectible geometry for the category
  • Lack of daily equipment

available in black, silver and orange

The Sportster XR1200X Datasheet

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