2008 Harley-Davidson XL 1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster

You are here: HomeNew 2008 Models — 2008 Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Models

2008 Harley-Davidson XL 1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster
Back to 2008 Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Index Page

Click photos to enlarge.
They make great desktop images.

2008 Harley-Davidson 2008 XL 1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster
2008 Harley-Davidson XL 1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster

2008 Harley-Davidson 2008 XL 1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster
2008 Harley-Davidson XL 1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster

2008 Harley-Davidson 2008 XL 1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster
2008 Harley-Davidson XL 1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster

2008 Harley-Davidson 2008 XL 1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster
2008 Harley-Davidson XL 1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster

2008 Harley-Davidson 2008 XL 1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster
2008 Harley-Davidson XL 1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster

2008 Harley-Davidson 2008 XL 1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster
2008 Harley-Davidson XL 1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster

– 2008 Harley-Davidson XL 1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster

2008 Harley-Davidson XL 1200N Sportster 1200 Nightster

Stripped down and gritty, the Nightster reinterprets the Sportster legend with rugged, retro-rod styling. A solo seat and lowered suspension puts the rider just 25.3 inches above the pavement. Clipped front and rear fenders expose chunky tires. Wheel rims and hubs, forks and handlebars, hand and foot controls are finished in basic black. Fork gaiters and a bullet-hole belt guard come from the old-school book of style. Combination rear turn indicators/tail/stop lights and a side-mount license plate clean up the rear fender. The classic 3.3-gallon fuel tank is topped with a simple silver-satin cap. Muscular 1200 Evolution engine barks through new slash-cut chrome Staggered mufflers.

 

New on Sportster for 2008

New Graphics: New tank graphics are featured on the XL 883, XL 883 Low, XL 883C Custom, XL 1200R Roadster and XL 1200C Custom.


105th Anniversary Edition: A limited-edition, serialized XL 1200C Custom 105th Anniversary Edition and XL 1200L Low 105th Anniversary Edition will be available in 2008 (see separate release for details on the 105th Anniversary package).


FEATURES:

The XL 1200N Nightster features:


Rubber-mounted XL Evolution 1200cc engine
Medium Gray powder-coated engine with polished covers
Black laced steel wheels, 19-inch front / 16-inch rear
Black low-rise handlebar
Sportster Classic solo seat
Chrome Slash Cut Staggered Shorty Dual exhaust
Black mid-mount foot controls
Lowest-Profile rear shocks
Lowest-Profile front forks
Classic 3.3-gallon fuel tank
Black front forks with gaiters
Bullet hole belt guard and front fender supports
Side-mount license plate holder
Combination rear brake/tail/turn lights
Lowered front and rear suspension
Optional Smart Security System



SPECIFICATIONS:

2008 harley-davidson® specifications1 sportster® XL 1200N Sportster® 1200 Nightster™

DIMENSIONS
Length 85.80 in. (2179.32 mm)
Overall Width 36.40 in. (924.56 mm)
Overall Height 43.60 in. (1107.44 mm)
Seat Height:
– Laden2 25.30 in. (642.62 mm)
– Unladen 26.30 in. (668.02 mm)
Ground Clearance 3.90 in. (99.06 mm)
Rake (steering head) 29.6°
Fork Angle 29.6°
Trail 4.60 in. (116.84 mm)
Wheelbase 60 in. (1524 mm)
Tires (Dunlop® Harley-Davidson® Series, blackwall):
– Front – D401F 100/90-19 57H
– Rear – D401 150/80B16 71H
Fuel Capacity (warning light at approximately 0.80 gal.) 3.3 gal. (12.49 L)
Oil Capacity (w/filter) 3.60 qts. (3.41 L)
Transmission Capacity 1 qts. (0.95 L)
Weight:
– As Shipped 545 lbs. (247.21 kg)
– In Running Order 562 lbs. (254.92 kg)
– Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 1000 lbs. (453.59 kg)
Gross Axle Weight Rating:
– Front 335 lbs. (151.95 kg)
– Rear 665 lbs. (301.64 kg)

ENGINE
Engine3 Air-cooled, Evolution®
Valves Pushrod-operated, overhead valves with hydraulic,
self-adjusting lifters; two valves per cylinder
Bore x Stroke 3.50 in. (88.90 mm) x 3.81 in. (96.77 mm)
Displacement3 73.20 cu. in. (1200 cu. cm)
Compression Ratio 9.7:1
Fuel System4 Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Air Cleaner Paper cartridge type
Lubrication System Dry-sump

DRIVETRAIN
Primary Drive Chain, 57/38 ratio
Final Drive Belt, 68/29 ratio
Clutch 9-plate, wet
Transmission 5-speed
Gear Ratios (overall): U.S. HDI JPN
1st 9.315 9.004 9.004
2nd 6.653 6.432 6.432
3rd 4.948 4.783 4.783
4th 4.102 3.965 3.965
5th 3.517 3.400 3.400

CHASIS
Frame Mild steel, tubular frame; circular sections; cast junctions
Swing Arm Mild steel, rectangular tube sections, stamped junctions; MIG welded
Front Forks 35 mm
Rear Shocks Coil-over; preload dual-adjustable
Wheels5:
– Front Black, Laced Steel
19 in. x 2.50 in. (482.60 mm x 63.50 mm)
– Rear Black, Laced Steel
16 in. x 3 in. (406.40 mm x 76.20 mm)
Brakes:
– Caliper Type Dual-piston front, single-piston rear
– Rotor Type (diameter x width): Patented, uniform expansion rotors
– Front 11.50 in. x .20 in. (292.10 mm x 5.08 mm)
– Rear 11.50 in. x .23 in. (292.10 mm x 5.84 mm)
Suspension Travel:
– Front Wheel 3.62 in. (91.95 mm)
– Rear Wheel 1.63 in. (41.40 mm)

PERFORMANCE
Engine Torque6 (per SAE J1349):
– North America 79 ft. lbs. @ 4000 rpm (107.12 NM @ 4000 rpm)
– World 75 ft. lbs. @ 3500 rpm (101.70 NM @ 3500 rpm)
– Japan 66 ft. lbs. @ 3500 rpm (89.50 NM @ 3500 rpm)
Lean Angle (per SAE J1168): Right: 29° Left: 30°
Fuel Economy7(EPA urban/highway test): 42/57 mpg (5.60/4.13 L /100 km)

ELECTRIC
Battery Sealed, maintenance-free, 12V, 12-amp/hour, 200 cca
(per Battery Council International Rating)
Charging Single-phase, 30-amp system
(357W @ 13.5V, 2000 rpm, 405W max power @ 13.5V)
Starting 1.2 kW electric with solenoid shift starter motor engagement
Lights (as per country regulation):
– Headlamp (quartz halogen) 55-watt low beam, 60-watt high beam
– Tail/Stop Lights 8W/28W per lamp
– Turn Signal Lights 28W self-canceling
– Indicator Lamps High beam, neutral, low oil pressure, turn signals,
engine diagnostics, low fuel warnings,
security system8 (optional)

STYLING/CONVENIENCE
Engine Trim Medium gray, with polished treatment
Exhaust System Chrome, slash-cut exhaust with dual mufflers
Fenders and Supports
– Front Chopped, with black brackets/lightning holes
– Rear Chopped, with black supports
Foot Supports and Controls
– Rider Mid-mounted footpegs with brake & shift levers
Handlebar Style Black, low-rise
Seat Type and Style One-piece, solo Sportster® classic
Fork Lock Common with ignition key
Hazard Warning Integrated into turn signal controls
Smart Security System Next-generation hands-free security fob;
operates based on proximity to vehicle

COLORS10
Vivid Black, Suede Blue Pearl/Vivid Black, Olive Pearl Denim/ Black Denim (new),
Brilliant Silver Denim/Black Denim, Mirage Orange Pearl/Vivid Black

WARANTY
Warranty9 24 months (unlimited mileage)
Service Interval First 1,000 miles (1,600 km), every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) thereafter
1 Vehicles depicted may differ from vehicles manufactured and delivered. Specifications and prices listed may differ from specifications and prices of vehicles manufactured and delivered. All product descriptions (including depictions, specifications, dimensions, measurements, ratings and competitive comparisons) are based on available information at the time of publication. Although such descriptions are believed correct, errors and hanges can occur and
complete accuracy cannot be guaranteed. Harley-Davidson may make changes at any time to prices and specifications, and may change or discontinue models, without notice and without incurring any obligation.

Attention: Vehicles in the configurations shown and many of the accessories described in this catalog may not be available for sale or use in some locations. Please check with your dealer for complete product details and the latest information. All models feature 6-speed transmission (VRSC™ models and Sportster® models are 5-speed) and carbon
fiber belt final drive; multi-plate clutch with diaphragm spring in oil bath; and 2-year unlimited mileage warranty.
2 Measurement reflects 180 lb. (81.7 kg) operator weight.
3 Recommended 91 octane or higher fuel (R+M)/2.
4 Standard and optional fuel systems may vary by country and region.
5 Standard and optional wheels may vary by country and region. Standard 105th Anniversary wheel for FLHTCU, FXDL, XL1200L, FLTR and FLHX models is Gloss Black Painted Cast Aluminum.
6 Values shown are nominal. Performance may vary by country and region.
7 Estimated from fuel economy tests on a sample motorcycle from the corresponding family conducted by Harley-Davidson under ideal laboratory conditions. Not all motorcycle models undergo fuel economy testing. Fuel economy and mileage may vary among motorcycle models within a family. Your mileage may vary depending on your personal riding habits, weather conditions, trip length, vehicle condition and vehicle configuration and other conditions. Break-in mileage may vary.
8 North America security system includes immobilizer; outside North America the security system includes immobilizer and siren.
9 See motorcycle owner’s manual for complete details.
10 Availability of colors may vary from dealer to dealer, and is subject to change without notice.


 

Media Press Release:

MILWAUKEE (July 9, 2007) – For 2008, Harley-Davidson offers its most diverse line of Sportster models in the 51-year history of legendary XL platform. From the minimalist, retro-chic styling of the XL 1200N Nightster to the affordable performance of the XL 883 Sportster 883 and the glamorous power of the XL 1200C Sportster 1200 Custom, there’s a model to match the desires of any rider.

As the original American hot-rod motorcycle, the 1957 Sportster brought raw-boned aggression from the flat track to the street with an irresistible combination of power and agility. Over more than a half-century, the Sportster has evolved technologically while staying true to its roots, offering riders no-nonsense V-Twin performance and nimble handling in a motorcycle that’s always a cool, fun ride.

All Sportster models are powered by the Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) XL Evolution V-Twin powertrain, rubber-mounted in the frame to reduce vibration and tuned to deliver a broad powerband for outstanding street performance. The transmission and engine share a common die-cast case. Final drive is via a clean, quiet and durable belt reinforced with carbon fiber. The Harley-Davidson Smart Security System is an available option on all Sportster models.

 

New on Sportster for 2008

New Graphics: New tank graphics are featured on the XL 883, XL 883 Low, XL 883C Custom, XL 1200R Roadster and XL 1200C Custom.


105th Anniversary Edition: A limited-edition, serialized XL 1200C Custom 105th Anniversary Edition and XL 1200L Low 105th Anniversary Edition will be available in 2008 (see separate release for details on the 105th Anniversary package).

 

XL 1200N Nightster
Stripped down and gritty, the Nightster reinterprets the Sportster legend with rugged, retro-rod styling. A solo seat and lowered suspension puts the rider just 25.3 inches above the pavement. Clipped front and rear fenders expose chunky tires. Wheel rims and hubs, forks and handlebars, hand and foot controls are finished in basic black. Fork gaiters and a bullet-hole belt guard come from the old-school book of style. Combination rear turn indicators/tail/stop lights and a side-mount license plate clean up the rear fender. The classic 3.3-gallon fuel tank is topped with a simple silver-satin cap. Muscular 1200 Evolution engine barks through new slash-cut chrome Staggered mufflers.

XL 1200N Nightster features:


Rubber-mounted XL Evolution 1200cc engine
Medium Gray powder-coated engine with polished covers
Black laced steel wheels, 19-inch front / 16-inch rear
Black low-rise handlebar
Sportster Classic solo seat
Chrome Slash Cut Staggered Shorty Dual exhaust
Black mid-mount foot controls
Lowest-Profile rear shocks
Lowest-Profile front forks
Classic 3.3-gallon fuel tank
Black front forks with gaiters
Bullet hole belt guard and front fender supports
Side-mount license plate holder
Combination rear brake/tail/turn lights
Lowered front and rear suspension
Optional Smart Security System
XL 883 Sportster 883
This most-affordable Harley-Davidson model offers the distinctive sound and performance of American V-Twin power in a package that’s narrow and easy to handle. From the classic “peanut” fuel tank to the chrome Staggered Shorty Dual exhaust, the XL 883 maintains Sportster tradition.

XL 883 Sportster 883 features:


Rubber-mounted XL Evolution 883cc engine
Silver powder-coated engine with polished treatment
NEW tank graphics
Silver 13-Spoke Cast Aluminum wheels, 19-inch front / 16-inch rear
Low-rise handlebar
Sportster Classic solo seat
Chrome Staggered Shorty Dual exhaust
Mid-mount foot controls
Classic 3.3-gallon fuel tank
Optional Smart Security System
XL 883L Sportster 883 Low
The 883 Low features a seat height of just 25.3 inches and an ergonomic package that offers precise handling for smaller riders, or anyone who enjoys a narrow and agile motorcycle with classic Sportster style and Evolution V-Twin performance.

XL Sportster 883L features:


Rubber-mounted XL 883cc Evolution engine
Silver powder-coated engine with polished treatment
Lowered front and rear suspension
NEW tank graphics
Silver 13-spoke Cast Aluminum wheels, 19-inch front / 16-inch rear
Wide reduced-reach polished handlebar
Reduced-reach solo seat
Chrome Staggered Shorty Dual exhaust
Mid-mount foot controls
Lowest-Profile rear shocks
Lowest-Profile front forks
Easy Reach sidestand
Classic 3.3-gallon fuel tank
Optional Chrome Laced Steel wheels
Optional Smart Security System
XL 883C Sportster 883 Custom
Forward foot controls and a 21-inch laced front wheel, a 4.5-gallon fuel tank, two-up seat, and pullback handlebar give the 883 Custom laid-back style. It’s an affordable custom with authentic American V-Twin performance.

XL 883C Sportster 883 Custom features:


Rubber-mounted XL Evolution 883cc engine
Silver powder-coated engine and with polished treatment
NEW tank graphics
Chrome Laced Steel 21-inch front wheel
Silver Solid Disc Cast Aluminum 16-inch rear wheel
Chrome low-rise handlebar on pullback riser
One-piece, two-up Sportster Classic seat
Chrome Staggered Shorty Dual exhaust
Low-Profile rear shocks
Forward foot controls
4.5-gallon fuel tank
Optional Smart Security System
XL 1200R Sportster 1200 Roadster
Built to rule the road, the 1200 Roadster features triple disc brakes and a high-mount tachometer. Dirt-track handlebar and mid-mount foot controls put the rider in firm control of the 1200cc Evolution V-Twin engine with wrinkle-black details.

XL 1200R Sportster 1200 Roadster features:


Rubber-mounted XL Evolution 1200cc engine
Black powder-coated engine and wrinkle-black treatment
NEW tank graphics
Black 13-spoke Cast Aluminum wheels, 19-inch front / 16-inch rear
Dirt Track polished handlebar
One-piece, two-up Sportster Classic seat
Chrome Staggered Shorty Dual exhaust
Mid-mount foot controls
Triple-disc brakes
High-mount tachometer
4.5-gallon fuel tank
Optional Smart Security System
XL 1200L Sportster 1200 Low
The 1200 Low offers all of the performance of a fuel-injected 1200cc Evolution V-Twin, with pull-back handlebar and a low 26.3 seat height for comfortable ergonomics and a 4.5-gallon fuel tank for increased range. Black 13-spoke Cast Aluminum 19-inch front wheel is only available on this Sportster model.

XL 1200L Sportster 1200 Low features:


Rubber-mounted XL Evolution 1200cc engine
Black powder-coated engine with chrome treatment
Black 13-spoke Cast Aluminum wheels, 19-inch front / 16-inch rear
Wide handlebar on pull-back risers
One-piece, two-up Sportster Classic seat
Chrome Staggered Shorty Dual exhaust
Low-Profile rear shocks
Low-Profile front forks
Mid-mount foot controls
Integrated chrome gauge housing and handlebar clamp
Black fender strut covers
4.5-gallon fuel tank
Optional Steel Laced wheels
Optional Smart Security System
XL 1200C Sportster 1200 Custom
Sparkling chrome sets the 1200 Custom apart from other Sportster models. A chrome Laced 21-inch front and chrome Slotted Disc Cast Aluminum rear wheel, chrome engine highlights, chrome handlebar and headlight, and a polished fuel tank console give this model a custom gleam. Forward controls and a pull-back handlebar riser put the rider in a laid-back position that’s perfect for cruising.

XL 1200C Sportster 1200 Custom features:


Rubber-mounted XL Evolution 1200cc engine
Black powder-coated engine with chrome treatment
NEW tank decoration and cloisonné
Chrome Laced Steel 21-inch front wheel
Chrome Slotted Disc Cast Aluminum 16-inch rear wheel
Wide polished handlebar on chrome pull-back risers
One-piece, two-up Sportster Classic seat
Chrome Staggered Shorty Dual exhaust
Low-Profile rear shocks
Forward foot controls
Chrome bullet headlight
Polished fuel tank console
4.5-gallon fuel tank
Optional Chrome Aluminum Profile Laced wheels
Optional Smart Security System
Harley-Davidson Motor Company, the only major U.S.-based motorcycle manufacturer, produces heavyweight motorcycles and a complete line of motorcycle parts, accessories and general merchandise. For more information, visit Harley-Davidson’s Web site at www.harley-davidson.com.

About Michael Le Pard 10234 Articles
"Mr. Totalmotorcycle". Owner and Founder of Total Motorcycle, the World’s Largest Motorcycle Site with over 425 million readers since 1999. Total Motorcycle is my pride and joy and being able to reach 425 million people has been incredible and I could not have done it without the support of my visitors, readers and members...thank you so much! We are all making a difference to millions of riders worldwide.

Be the first to comment

Leave a Reply