Harley-Davidson 2006 XL Sportster 1200L Brings It All

New Model Combines Low Seat Height and Refined Ergonomics with Sportster Style

MILWAUKEE, Nov. 3 -- Harley-Davidson brings the best of its long heritage of street motorcycle design to the new 2006 XL Sportster 1200L model. Blending a low seat height and mid-mount controls with the powerful torque of the rubber-mounted Evolution V-Twin engine, the XL Sportster 1200L adds another exciting option to the Sportster family.

"The XL Sportster 1200L combines specific features and value that our customers requested," said Bill Davidson, Harley-Davidson Director of Motorcycle Product Development. "This motorcycle is powered by a smooth-riding 1200cc black and chrome treated engine with a lower profile design that stays true to the Sportster heritage of narrow, agile styling."

The XL Sportster 1200L has a seat height of 26.25 inches, which is 1.8 inches lower than the XL Sportster 1200R Roadster. In addition, the handlebar grips are moved back an inch further than any other Sportster model and a new two-up Badlander style seat provides a comfortable ride. That lower profile seat height, merged with the ergonomics of the new pullback handlebar and mid- mount controls, is sure to accommodate a broad range of riders.

Featuring a black powder-coated 1200cc XL Evolution engine with chrome treatment, the XL Sportster 1200L performs with 79 ft. lbs. of torque. All 2006 XL Sportster models feature a new transmission and all 1200cc models feature a clutch that reduces lever effort by 12 percent. Overall shift effort is significantly reduced due to thin steel "dog rings" that slide to cause gear changes. The new transmission is integrated with the XL Evolution powertrain and shares a die-cast case with the engine. New helical-cut gears mesh more quietly than the straight-cut gears used in the previous transmission.

The 4.5 gallon fuel tank allows the XL Sportster 1200L an extended driving range of more than 200 miles per tank. Standard black 13-spoke cast aluminum wheels with machined silver highlights put a racing spin on Sportster style and steel laced wheels are optional.

The XL Sportster is the original Harley-Davidson hot rod motorcycle, with a design refined from the racetrack to the street, offering premier performance and classic style.

The XL Sportster 1200L is offered in eight color options, including three unique two-tone paint schemes, all with a new 3-D fuel tank graphic.

  The XL Sportster 1200L features:
    Rubber-mounted 1200cc XL Evolution engine
    Black powder-coated engine with chrome treatment
    High-compression, high-flow cylinder heads
    High-performance cams
    Smoother, quieter transmission
    Reduced clutch lever effort
    26.25-inch, two-up seat
    Low front and rear suspension
    Pulled back polished handlebar
    Mid-mount foot controls
    4.5 gallon fuel tank
    Black 13-spoke cast aluminum wheels
    Chrome staggered shorty dual exhaust

Harley-Davidson, Inc. is the parent company for the group of companies doing business as Harley-Davidson Motor Company, Buell Motorcycle Company and Harley-Davidson Financial Services. Harley-Davidson Motor Company produces heavyweight street, custom and touring motorcycles and offers a complete line of motorcycle parts, accessories, apparel and general merchandise. Buell Motorcycle Company produces sport motorcycles in addition to motorcycle parts, accessories and apparel. Harley-Davidson Financial Services, Inc. provides wholesale and retail financing and insurance programs to Harley-Davidson/Buell dealers and customers.