Sportster XR1200 Test Ride

[falconati]

So, over the Tgives weekend, the weather got nice (57 F, in Iowa) and I decided to test ride a bike that I've been fawning over for awhile.  I arrived at the dealership, and in less than 10 minutes was riding off on the bike.  The no-hassle approach of the local dealership was amazing - maybe this is part of why Harley riders are so loyal.

Engine: The air-cooled Evolution engine made a good amount of power for the weight of the bike (I'm 150 lbs, 6' tall).  It won't pull like a sportbike, but it's not really that style of motorcycle.  The bottom end is really nice, and the torque will bring you up to 60 mph very quickly (probably a second or so slower than a 600 cc sport bike).  After that, the power fades and passing becomes somewhat of a chore.  Based on the footpegs, it would be difficult to burn your legs on any of the hot parts, and I never felt any engine heat riding up on me.  In warmer weather, that might be different; however I had absolutely no heat from under the seat.  Overall I'd give the engine a 7/10.  Points docked for lack of top end power, responsiveness, and cooling technology.

Transmission: Good, positive shifts.  Finding neutral became easy after about 2 attempts.  The bike also had rather smooth engagement, which was a pleasant surprise.  Gearing was absolutely perfect for the application (I did light city traffic, and then some highway).  I'd give it an 8/10 - losing points for having only 5 gears (personal preference)

Suspension: This is where I have my beef with the cycle.  Even small bumps were unbearable.  This particular Harley has a very rough ride.  If you purchase one, you will likely need to put in new suspension (front and rear).  The rear is adjustable from stock, but I wasn't able to find any comfortable setting.  If you're coming from anything besides a racebike, you'll find the ride unacceptable. 3/10 - get your shit together on this one, guys!

Handling: I liked the way the XR handled.  I found it to be rather flickable, given the 580 lb wet weight.  The weight is quite noticeable at low speeds, but once you're above 30 mph, the bike becomes easy to handle.  The weight of the front end could be lower - Harley should take notes from Triumph's Bonneville, and Moto Guzzi's Classic.  7/10 - good, but room for improvement at lower speeds.

Overall I thought the machine was good.  Unfortunately, I couldn't bring myself to buy one given the price.  At $10,799 (starting) plus new suspension, there are other motorcycles that fit the bill.  However if you're looking for timeless American styling, the Harley growl, or just to make gift giving easier for your friends and family (just think of all those bandannas and shirts they can buy you...), you should give this bike the once over.

[kevin_stevens]

Did you notice that rear master cylinder getting in the way of your right foot at all?

KeS

[falconati]

Nope.  My right knee touched the engine guard a few times, but I got used to where the guard was and positioned my knee about a quarter inch away from it to avoid hitting it.

[kevin_stevens]

Sorry, not the engine cylinder, the master cylinder for the rear brake.  It's kind of hung out in the breeze there behind the right rider peg.  I guess that means you didn't notice it, which answers my question.  

KeS

[falconati]

Sorry, not the engine cylinder, the master cylinder for the rear brake.  It's kind of hung out in the breeze there behind the right rider peg.  I guess that means you didn't notice it, which answers my question.  

KeS

Haha, yeah - I didn't have any issues.  For reference, my shoe size is 13 - so unless you have larger feet than that, it probably wouldn't be an issue.

[1KPerDay]

Thanks for the report.

[chornbe]

Good write up.  

[bomber]

thanks for the review -- it matches my experiences, including your comments on the suspension (which is only slightly remarkable in that I'm carryin a 50 pounds more, and the suspension is STILL unacceptably) --

I'd be drooling over this bike, big time, if I didn't have a tuber Buell in the motorpool.

[Rincewind]

Nice write-up Falconati, thank you.  

I recently saw a home-made version of the XR, in 883R guise, with some nice suspension bits.  Cool bikes.

[stromgal]

I rode the XR in September, and my take on it was similar. Loved the free-reving (for an H-D) nature of the engine. I thought the flat-track styled bars were too wide for the bike. It was very flickable (for an H-D)- I was going through some marked 25-30mph left-right-left-left rights at 60+ and enjoyed the stability. The suspension was brutal however.  If it wasn't so much money I'd enjoy having one.

[falconati]

Nice write-up Falconati, thank you.  

I recently saw a home-made version of the XR, in 883R guise, with some nice suspension bits.  Cool bikes.

Wow, that looks awesome

[olderigetfasteriam]

Haha, yeah - I didn't have any issues.  For reference, my shoe size is 13 - so unless you have larger feet than that, it probably wouldn't be an issue.

You know what they say about guys with big feet, big shoes.

Thanks for the write up.