Faults:

Fuel-injected systems often suffer from unstable idling or engine stalling. This occurs because the IAC (Idle Air Control) sensor becomes dirty or stuck, preventing the engine from properly regulating airflow during acceleration or when coming to a stop.

The engine mounts (silent blocks) and swingarm bushings tend to wear out or fail. This causes the rear wheel to become misaligned and the belt to rub against the tire, creating an annoying sensation of instability when riding on the road.

With its five-speed transmission, the engine tends to run at high RPMs on the highway, which can lead to fatigue. Additionally, the drive belt requires careful adjustment; if a stone gets lodged between the belt and the pulley, it can cause severe damage.

General Comments:

The XL Sportster 1200 R is the sportiest model in the lineup, and you can feel it when you ride it (and it’s a pure thrill).

The compact dimensions of the XL 1200R Sportster inspire confidence in riders of all sizes, although the weight of the engine—positioned low in the chassis—is noticeable when the bike is stationary. The low seat height (76 cm) makes it easy for me to reach the ground, while the bike's narrow profile and the short reach to the handlebars provide good control for maneuvering it from side to side.

The bike is equipped with an optional smart security system—a hands-free device linked to the ignition. If the remote control is more than 2.4 meters away from the bike, it won't start; instead, it flashes all the turn signals in a display reminiscent of 1970s discos. If you lose the remote, you can also deactivate the alarm by entering a code using the turn signal buttons.

Passive security system is easy to understand, and luckily I always carry the remote fob with me (because I had no idea what the security code was!). Upon startup, the Sportster’s 1200cc Evolution engine comes to life with an impeccable purr—thanks to the new electronic fuel injection—and I can feel that signature Harley-Davidson rumble beneath my feet.

Out on the road, my intuition tells me the 1,200cc engine had plenty of power to get me out of any tight spot. All that power is delivered through a smooth-shifting five-speed transmission with a belt final drive.

Trying to ride one at speeds above 110 km/h is an experience that makes your teeth rattle, as the pulses from the V-twin engine are intense, to say the least. But with the switch to rubber mounts, the new Sportster felt very smooth at startup and even smoother at highway speeds. Well done, Harley!

During my time with the new Sportster, I covered a lot of highway miles. Highway riding on the Sportster is very easy, as the handlebars and foot controls aren't positioned too far forward. To give you an idea, at 6'0" tall, I found the riding position very comfortable. The compliant suspension absorbs road imperfections and provides a smooth ride. I didn't realize just how bad a particular stretch of road was until I saw my shadow and noticed how much the front wheel was bouncing. As with most motorcycles lacking a windshield, wind buffeting becomes an issue at speeds above 110 km/h, though I found that slightly tucking my head down helped reduce neck strain. If needed, you can purchase a windshield and saddlebags from your Harley-Davidson dealer.

Navigating through traffic is easy thanks to the Sportster's narrow proportions, which make weaving between lanes a breeze. My only complaint about the bike (and this applies to all Harley-Davidson models) is the turn signal switches on the handlebars.

All in all, despite being a heavy bike, it is incredibly agile and fast, easy to ride, and suitable for all kinds of roads. Even for a Harley, I don't find the fuel consumption high, and mechanically, it doesn't give you any major headaches.

It is an expensive bike, but it is worth it. One for the true enthusiast.

Faults:

Rocker cover leaks at 15K and 30K (covered under warranty/extended warranty); oil pressure LED died (covered - extended warranty); clutch inner springs came apart inside clutch basket at 25K (replaced fiber plates and removed scoring on clutch basket).

OTOH, burns no oil, never left me stranded, gets 50 MPG taking it easy, and 40+ when hammering on it.

General Comments:

Bought the specific model for its dual disc brake, tach, and higher ground clearance. If you accept it as an old design, and don't expect it to be sporty in the modern way, it's a wonderful bike. I've taken it for 650-mile days. It sounds great, and handles OK. At 70 it's smooth as glass.

It has a place in the family forever, even though I have also acquired a Concours 14 that is different (not better, different).