Harley Davidson is announcing the 2011 XR1200X, with upgrades to the XR1200 suspension and brakes to make the XR1200X the new performance bike of the Harley lineup.
Harley Davidson press release:
XR1200X™ TAKES SPORTSTER® PERFORMANCE TO A NEW LEVEL
Fully-Adjustable Premium Suspension and Full-Floating Front Brake Rotors
MILWAUKEE (June 3, 2010) – The XR1200X is Harley-Davidson® Sportster performance honed to its finest edge. Introduced in 2010 for export markets only, the XR1200X will be available through Harley-Davidson dealers in the United States as a 2011 model. Equipped with fully-adjustable Showa® front and rear suspension components, the 2011 XR1200X can be dialed in to match rider weight, riding style and road conditions. The XR1200X combines this premium suspension with enhanced front brakes and the responsive punch of a high-compression, 1200cc Evolution® V-Twin engine in a dynamic, street-performance motorcycle.
With a tank and tail section designed to evoke the legendary Harley-Davidson XR750 – the king of the gritty American flat-track scene – the XR1200X puts its mechanical character on display. Wide flat-track bars and rearset footpegs position an assertive rider for active control. The XR1200X has a blacked-out powertrain and exhaust, revised tank graphics, and black wheels with an orange rim pinstripe. The XR1200X will be offered in two colors: Black Denim and White Hot Denim.
Key XR1200X Features
* Showa Big Piston Front fork (BPF) eliminates many of the internal components used in a cartridge-type fork, resulting in lighter overall fork weight. The large-diameter of the BPF internal piston allows a reduction in damping pressure for outstanding feedback and smooth action. Rebound and compression damping may be fine tuned with adjuster screws located on top of the fork bolts. The spring pre-load is adjusted with a M5 hex screw on the axle holders.
* Showa rear shocks feature 36mm pistons with piggy-back nitrogen charged reservoirs. The compression damping may be adjusted with a knob on top of the reservoir. Rebound is adjusted with a thumb wheel on the lower clevis. Rear spring pre-load is also adjustable.
* Nissin® dual front brakes feature 292mm full-floating rotors and four-piston calipers.
* Isolation-mounted XL Evolution 1200 cc V-Twin engine with black powdercoat finish features downdraft Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI), high-performance camshafts, precision oil-cooled cylinder heads and a large-capacity oil cooler. Compression ratio is 10:1. The engine is rated at 74 ft. lbs. peak torque @ 4000 rpm (per SAE J1349).
* Upswept, high-volume 2-1-2 straight-shot exhaust system with satin black finish offers extra cornering clearance.
* Chassis features a high-performance designed tubular mild steel frame. The rigid, cast-aluminum swingarm is engineered to enhance handling.
* Dunlop® Qualifier D209 tires were designed specifically for the XR1200X.
* Three-spoke lightweight cast-aluminum wheels, 18-inch front / 17-inch rear, are finished in gloss black with an orange pinstripe on the rim.
* Wide, black dirt-track handlebar for enhanced steering leverage and comfort.
* Rearset foot pegs for additional cornering clearance.
* Compact instrument display with white-faced analog tachometer, digital speedometer, dual trip meter and clock.
* 3.5-gallon fuel tank with aircraft-style aluminum alloy fuel filler.
* 29.2-inch seat height with standard passenger pillion and foot pegs.
* Optional Harley-Davidson® Smart Security System.
Jesse says
Maybe I’m missing it; it looks just like the standard XR1200
Mule says
Showa suspension “To suit your riding style”? What is the riding style for a 570lb “Sportbike”?
Harley should have kept an 01 Buell Lightning, popped a rubber mount 04 Sportie motor in and just renamed it “XR1200”. It would have been 150lbs lighter with some credibility.
The bodywork design hurts my eyes!
chadd says
Functionally, it looks like an Ok bike, but the HD design crew cannot seem to get past the 1980’s. It’s just plain fugly.
Purple Victory says
It’s a step in the right direction. Granted, we’d all like to see a legit sport bike from HD -or Buell still be around- but this at least shows that someone at HD isn’t completely sold on the urban cowboy image. And as far as the 1980s design: Maybe I’m just too into retro stuff (I’m 22) but I like the design. Of course I wish my dad still had his ’86 Daytona and lust after a Buick GNX. Probably something wrong with me. 😛
Vinnie says
I am impressed that Harley decided to use “real” suspension; aka almost anything without a bar and shield on it.
BUTTTT……………….
It is still a porky pig.
This just shows Harley needs Buell more than ever……..
Scott Jeffers says
HD and company need to stick to what their customer base wants: Big, heavy, shiny bikes built for the lookit-me crowd. If you want something that can go around corners but you live by the mantra “Buy ‘Merican,” go get a nice Buell.
Oh wait…
kneeslider says
Whatever you think of Harley Davidson and whether they should have shut down or sold Buell, the simple fact is, Erik Buell is on his own and HD has their work cut out for them to survive, rebuild and grow. If they look at their one performance model and make some positive changes, it’s a step in the right direction. Maybe not a big step, maybe there’s still a lot they can do, but it’s something. That’s good.
HD obviously isn’t into taking big risks right now so with this much change, they’ll see what happens in the showroom. Combined with the new AMA XR1200 race series, this XR1200X might appeal to some riders who want to buy HD but want performance, too.
Scott says
I try to push the simmering hatred I have for Harley management to the back of my mind and look at it objectively . . . but I just can’t. They had the Barracuda ready to go and THIS is what they offer instead? They could have been racing World Superbike and instead they’re racing with their own pathetic spec. series (with lap times that will likely soon be getting spanked by the electric bikes).
Sure, it’s okay . . . for a Harley. But it needs that very specific qualifier in there. I really do hope Harley is able to make something of themselves, but current management gives me very little confidence that will happen. The company is run by accountants and marketing people rather than motorcycle guys and I just don’t see a future in that.
Hopefully Erik Buell will be selling street bikes soon. That’s my only real hope.
todd says
smoother suspension control = one step closer to a cruiser. I’m glad to hear H-D is improving at least one of their models and it’s still a fresh release. But, like it’s been said before, the people who know enough to care or notice the difference of this suspension are the least likely to buy this bike.
It’s funny how they note the max engine specs: 74 ft.lbs @ 4,000. That’s 56 HP, about the same as my 1973 R75 (which is 120# lighter). They’re better off stating their max HP if they want to brag.
-todd
steve says
Bollocks mate – 74lb is torque- actual HP is 91BHP. Yes I own one.
Scott says
Stolen from a Buell forum. A comparison between a 1996 Buell S1 and the new Harley:
Manufacturer: Buell Motorcycle Company
Model: S1 Lightning
Price: $9,995
Engine: Air-cooled OHV pushrod V-twin
Bore x Stroke: 88.8mm x 96.8
Displacement: 1203cc
Torque: 85 ft. lbs. @ 5200 rpm
HP: 91 hp @ 5800 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed, belt final drive
Fuel capacity: 4.0 gallons
Claimed dry weight: 425 lbs.
Manufacturer: Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Company
Model: XR1200X
Price: $11,089
Engine: Air-cooled OHV pushrod V-twin
Bore x Stroke: 88.8mm x 96.8
Displacement: 1203cc
Torque: 74 ft. lbs. @ 3700 rpm
HP: 90 hp @ 7000 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed, belt final drive
Fuel capacity: 3.5 gallons
Claimed dry weight: 562 lbs.
Boog says
Pretty nice!
Needs a new set of bars…stock ones mess up the lines on the top, as does the seat. The “flow” of visuals is a little bit choppy on top. Not bad for a “standard”, tho. Small stuff to change out for a different look. I could live with the seat.
LOSE those mufflers, they look like they were designed by a committee.
Overall, pretty good job of building a “standard” type bike for Harley. Seating position upright and pegs where they ought to be. This thing will probably appeal to those who want a commuter bike and like the upright seating position (like me).
Would I be interested in one? You betcha…unfortunately, it will be priced out of my range, as usual for Harley. I would like to ride one and see how it “feels” for more than 20 or 30 miles. I am not one of those guys who enjoys chasing the devil that lives in tight corners, so the ultimate in handling doesn’t interest me at this stage of my life. Broken bones and road rash take a long time to heal nowadays…but I am not quite ready for a Goldwing, either…
Devilish says
Too Little…too late.
Another overpriced bike with little appeal. Sorry, but there may be some out there who think its “all that” but face it, Harley is scrambling…profit before all else.
Nuff Said
DWolvin says
@ Scott; I swear my next project bike (after rebuilding the K100rs’s tranny) is going to be some type of Buell. I went on a large group ride last month, and bumped into a lightning owner that was curious enough to try my K1200r that he was willing to swap keys. But then he had to take off suddenly (phone call of doom)… I was so bummed that I am just saving for a transmission shift roll (ow!) and then it’s something with a perimeter brake. Dunno which one, I will let fate or timing figure out that one.
FREEMAN says
I would not be surprised in the least if Harley actually built a “serious” performance bike and people complained about it for whatever reason. Harley just seems to inspire folks to complain no matter what they do.
Tinman says
The XR1200X is a very appealing bike for a mature bike enthusiest. And Todd, 74 Lbs at 4000 may be only 56HP, But the engine, as Im sure you know revs to 7K thus the 90HP rating is true. Harley rates by Torque because that is what moves the Bike, HP figures are for racing, in a Rev range that is not often reached on the street. This was a nice bike in original tune, Bought by many enthusiests as a nice addition to their stable, this enhanced version will be more coveted due to the added value of the adjustable suspension. A surefire collectors edition despite the opinion of the Harley Haters. The only negative is that this model should be Orange to better reflect its heritage, Im sure the forthcoming Screaming Eagle CVO model will rectify this shortcoming.
hoyt says
Freeman – I disagree. HD’s RoadKing is as good as it gets for the intended bike. But your comment, “if Harley actually built a “serious†performance bike”, is the very problem that (justifiably) prompts these comments. That is a large “IF” that will not ever be realized with the current management. why?
Mule says
Freeman, I don’t think people that criticize this bike or any other model Harley makes should be termed Harley-haters. Harley’s attempts at “Performance bikes” have long since come and gone. The VR1000 roadracer was doomed. The V-Rod? The intended market for that one is a mystery. The XR1200? Not even close to anything “XR” even after a 6-pack at closing time! Buells were a different story, but they’re history now too.
The XR1200 is a “Sporty” Sportster. Just leave it at that and there’s no argument. The bodywork/styling is bizzare in a Buellish kinda way. The ones being modified and raced in Europe look awesome and they’re probably a bit lighter as well. But the world of performance bikes is in another world from anything Harley offers or has offered. I’m just stating the obvious and not speaking as a “Harley Hater”. A 570 lb/100hp sportbike made by any manufacturer will never be taken seriously by anybody that’s a sportbike enthusiast. Just a fact. And generally speaking, Harley isn’t all that concerned about the situation anyway. Now….the Buell 1125 was a serious sportbike.
Harley has for years had the engineering capability, the re$ources, the dealer network, the loyal following to do just about anything in the motorcycle manufacturing world they desired. The company has always been run by “Doodle-Glide” pilots and now it’s in the hands of the accountants. If Eric Buell was running Harley, you’d probably see a very diverse line-up that appealed to many different markets, but he’s not and they don’t. It is what it is.
Mike says
Those rims look like they came straight off the 1984 Honda Sabre 700; my first street bike. Google it.
Carbon-arc says
As a minimum the cans have to go, they look as if the exist for emissions testing only – Keep and slide them back on for the yearly test, then slide them off again.
Nicolas says
this is a place for positive people, therefore I’ll not comment on this one …
Tim says
I dont hate it. They are $17k here in our south pacific paradise. For a new motorcycle they represent very good value for money. Thats about cow squeezing and the relative weakness of the USD and “strength” currently of our dollar. There are very few bikes you can buy new for that kind of money. They are doing runout Suzuki B-Kings for $15k, but if you think this is ugly, google image search a B King! Of course the motor and, what, 150hp? cant be argued with. I put it functionally equivalent to a Street Triple or Speed Triple. Except the Street is the same money ($500 more for the R) and the Speed is about $21k.
And this has a Harley badge. They’ll sell a bunch of them I bet.
In terms of tarted up sportsters, I like the Nightster better. But its no sportbike either.
Tim says
Oh yeah, they look way better in the Orange colour scheme rather than white.
The other Larry says
Anybody really have any sales figures for the XR over this past year? I thinking a lot must be sitting on dealers floors and wonder what kind of discounts can be had to move them. I just checked the hd site and see the 883 Low is listed at $6999. Make the XR under $9500 should be doable and I think a lot of us would at least go look.
ryde4ever says
I just test rode a 2010 version. I didn’t have any real complaints about the handling. For a heavy bike it isn’t bad. But as others have said, they should have used one of the Buell engines. A Ulysses would smoke this XR.
kevin says
I’ll just echo what’s been said previously. A small step in the right direction is better than no step at all. I will say that this is the type/style of bike HD should use to capture a younger market but they really need to make it lighter.
nortley says
It looks massively heavy and the teeny wheels complete the effect of a hog on tiptoes.
M. Rex says
It looks great. Harley has this and the new Forty Eight. They’re on a roll.
randy says
I think HD needs something or someone. Just not Buell, he had his chance.
Clawbrant says
You know for a company so obsessed with heritage and history, Harley seems to have forgotten a piece of theirs: the XLCR. The original is widely considered to be a styling triumph, one of Willy G’s best, and cafe racers are now more popular than ever. So when Harley finally decides it’s time to put some sport back in the Sportster what do they do? They build a street tracker! FAIL.
Tim says
all this needs to look XLCR-ish is an R90-esque fairing. maybe some different bars and an exhaust to complete the look It would go, stop and turn better than an XLCR too, I bet.
aichbe says
This XR 1200X must be the reason Harley killed the Buell, so as to negate any in-house competition. We all know how much Harley likes competition, right? Free market, and all that, blah blah, but a stacked deck is really what they prefer. I wouldn’t mind having the engine for a rigid bobber, but a 90’s Buell White Lightning X-1 91 to 101 hp motor would be preferable. It’s not an XR, by any stretch, anyway; XR’s have dual carbs and 2 front-exit exhausts. They also don’t weigh 575 lbs. They should maybe call it the XLCH, which was at least a street bike. A monoshock rear would be a nice touch, and would look right, too.
Why the V-Rod? Because it’s fast, reliable, has liquid cooling (for noise suppression and emission control), and is fairly versatile, even making a pretty decent bagger. It even handles pretty well, but is still too heavy, too expensive, and BUTT UGLY. Why are Harleys all getting heavier, when every other bike is getting lighter?
opops says
3.5 gallon tank? no cafe racing for this one, gas station racing more likely riding from one to the next….
Sportster Mike says
Most people that I’ve spoken to in England with this particular model say its the best Harley they have owned – 90 hp and revs to 7000 – but drinks fuel like a fish drinks water
I’ve heard people tell me that as Harley is shutting the race division and this is part of it the model will be withdrawn soon??.. as its not flying out of the doors as hoped
The sportsbike riders are saying its too slow and heavy and the already Harley riders are saying yes it goes round corners and doesn’t need tuning Wa Hay!!
SteveD says
This bike makes sense as part of the Harley line and it’s certainly their sportiest bike. However, that’s like being the most liberal Republican in the room. I’m a Sportster fan and I’d just like to see most of these features (suspension, engine performance) offered in one of the more standard “cruiser” configurations. That would make a better cruiser, instead of an XR-looking cruiser. They’ll still sell these, however. I wonder if anyone will be tempted to start with one of these and mod it to a cruiser as opposed to starting with the base cruiser and trying to improve the engine and suspension.
Of course, in a more sensible world, HD would have had Erik Buell design their production XR bike.
Scott says
I just re-read the release and noticed the colors: Black Denim and White Hot Denim.
If that doesn’t tell you everything you need to know about Harley Davidson then you aren’t paying attention. All sizzle, no steak.
Marco says
Wow. Negative alltogether all comments here!
I rode a XR1200 and I think it is fun. But I also like a Moto Guzzi Griso (comparable I would say).
Bikes like these are not “performance bikes” whatever the marketing department is stating. They are NOT.
They are just sheer fun. Uncomplicated. Nice sound. Big grin. Going around corners more easy than on yer typical cruiser. But more comfortable and relaxing than every performance bike.
The only factor of importance with these kind of machines is:
-After parking at the end of ride; do you A) have a big grin B) feel relaxed C) walk away and turn aroudn one time to look at your beauty?
I am certain my heartrate would DROP when riding this bike. When riding my speed triple it will certainly go up!
I like it., Really. And I am European and give sjit about “american iron” 🙂
P.S. Buell’s S1 maybe lighter and faster but it breaks down a lot to say the least!
Marco says
OW. Sorry. I forgot the Triumph Bonneville. It is also a spot-on competitor for the XR.
I like it too!
randy says
A more “sensible” HD would do their own production street XR, not Erik Buell. For crying out loud they designed the XR750 in the first place. I think Erik would goof it up. A smart HD would hire Mule or another person that has the Eye to provide the vision necessary to create a bike that will have the magic.
FREEMAN says
@ Mule:
Well, I wasn’t calling anyone a Harley hater or implying it. I was merely reflecting on the overall general opinion that seems to surface every time there is a post that has anything to do with HD or their products or engines. That is all.
FREEMAN says
@ hoyt:
Maybe we shouldn’t expect HD to build motorcycles that they don’t build.
Jay Allen says
Where are the negative comment police today?
todd says
All I’m saying is that if their performance claim is 74 ft.lbs @4000 RPM for this 1200 that just tells me it can be matched by someone on a 40 year old 750cc BMW… with his wife on the back. Now if they cut to the chase and said it makes 91 HP then I’d know I’d need at least a 20 year old 600 to keep up… with my wife on the back.
I don’t hate Harley, I just wish they made the sort of decisions (and marketing) that appealed to a broader range of riders like they used to so many years ago. There’s so much potential for Harley to be a truly great company with a great range of products.
-todd
hoyt says
@ Freeman – why are ‘we’ not allowed to expect more from a company that calls themselves “The Motor Company” ? Anyway, you made the comment that prompted models that are not made by them. Regardless, it is more than reasonable for anyone to expect HD to produce more variety. It is an opinion. Should we expect Ford and GM to go back to complacent SUV sales while their R&D for hybrids lagged behind?
maybe HD shouldn’t ask for bailout money just years after realizing hundreds of MILLIONS in net income PER YEAR for over a decade straight, while calling themselves the “The Motor Company”. Just maybe they should diversify
marco says
Why should Harley compete with other makes as they can have their own market segment?
And the average age of bikers tends to go up quite fast (in Holland at least).
All those old guys do not want to crack their backs and arms on performance bikes. They want something remembering them of their youth.
Picture this; sunny morning. You and your mates meet. You fill up your XR1200, they their MT01, Guzzi griso and Triumph Thruxton.
Of you go. You have no clue where to go. You just relax. Enjoy the trip.
Doesn’t that sound fantastic?
Couple of weeks ago I rode a Thriumph Thruxton, the man in front of me drove a daytona 675. After 30 minutes he walked away pissed off, I had a smile. Every corner I could stick with him and accelerate faster (first meters that is).
Just 70 Hp. 1 single disc in the front. No slipperclutch. No monoshock. But completely illegal Triumph open racecans! What a joy. What a fun.
This was a turning point for me. I measure the performance of a bike in “smiles/hour” instead of kms/hour.
But then I am an old geek. re-living my 20’s 🙂
And still I love the XR1200.
Spouler says
As a linguistics major I can’t help but find irony in the statement “Rearset foot pegs for additional cornering clearance” for a Harley ad 😛
bblix says
All this complaining about H-D…*sigh*…well, it strikes me like someone complaining that their Mexican girlfriend isn’t Vietnamese.
Meaning, if you don’t like what you’ve got, or you want something else, there’s a world of options out there–Go get it. Why gripe to your girlfriend that she’s something she’s not.
Tinman says
Harley is a Great Company, with a wide range of products. HDs products are the most widely copied products in the M/C world. DUH. Just because HD chooses not to build Boy Racer bikes does not make them a BAD company. They build Cruisers, and 1 Sporty Sporty, and they do very well. The world does not need another crotch rocket, and probably half the Rocketeers will grow into a Harley as they age, this is how its always been, people grow into Harleys. This is the reason the Asian Companys have been dumping their cruisers into our market, The Rocket makers are losing their base as they grow out of racer bikes. Dont tell me that you guys dont know many guys who have done just that, as income goes up and the need for 160MPH M/Cs receads people move to BMWs or Harleys or even the Gold Wing.
Mule says
Tinman, I find something fundamentally wrong with a company dictating what people will buy instead of moving with the markets. The buyers are getting younger and the bikes are of a design that appeals to the weekend dress up crowd. Long term, the gap between buyer’s desires and available models from Harley will grow to the point where they may no longer be making record profits quarter after quarter. In fact, they could even get into finacial trouble with profits falling off as much as 85%. They may even close some plants and lay people off. At that point they may start listening to what the buyers want. Something American made thats NOT a cruiser. It could happen.
CT says
These are cool bikes! I have test ridden the XR1200 and XR1200X many times and love the torque and sound. The suspension is fine on the standard one and better on the X. I am amazed at the haters……go and ride one and then comment. I like them for the retro look, great torque when riding and yep, they sound pretty cool.
Ray says
At last…suspension and better brakes. Now it needs to go on a diet and take some lessons in beauty from some of the other excellent street trackers featured on this site.
Still–better than most everything else in Harley’s current lineup.
Mule says
Whats needed is an American company (maybe Harley), to build a motorcycle version of a Viper or Cobra or Hemi Cuda’ instead of a 570 lb cruiser with lipstick, the XR1200. Something to blow everything in the weeds. BMW just did it, so it IS possible. It CAN be done. The Japanese CAN be beaten at their own game. Hell, a VR1000 street bike would do the trick! Has Harley sold MV off yet? Stop the sale, bring in the Italians, throw money at it, make it happen!!!
Yeti says
Yeah, I’ll stick to my ’08 Lightning.
'37 Indian says
I like it. It’s probably one of the only Harleys I would consider buying, although I can live without it. What they need to do is come out with a bike that I CAN’T live without. (The 883 Sportster that went for $3995 in the mid-80’s was tempting). It’s refreshing that it’s NOT a cruiser. The footpegs are where they belong, and it looks like it would be fun to ride. The wheels also instantly reminded me of my old ’84 Honda Sabre 700, but that’s ok, they were neat wheels. 3 1/2 gallons is MUCH better than my buddy’s 2 gallon Sportster tank. I’m hoping that buyers of this bike don’t instantly take the mufflers off and install fishtails, apehangers, batwing windshields, footboards, sissybars, hardbags and all the other “cool” Harley stuff. Just leave it alone and ride it!
Harley has to do something different, as the market they’re competing with is USED Harleys! Take a look on Craigslist and see what a one or two year old Harley is being nearly GIVEN AWAY for because of the glut, and lots of them aren’t selling. I’m not in the market for a Road King, but if I was, I’d buy a clean, low mileage used one and save nearly half the cost of new. Of course, then I’d have to search Ebay for a set of stock mufflers…….
tim says
I saw an orange and black one today that had some really nice pipes on it. Didnt see what they were. but it sounded great. Guy had put one of those clear plastic (EZ on EZoff givi windshields on it (its winter here….)) and it looked cool I have to say, and sounded better. Id like to take one for a strop sometime. He was an older dude (older than me anyhow, so 50’s?) and he appeared to be very happy with his choice of bike. Still not loving it in white though (unlike say a Ducati 848 which is ultra sexy in white)
Rick says
Whenever I look at forums it never fails to amaze me how many people know exactly what type of motorcycle Harley should make that would “fly off the showroom floors.” To date I calculate that Harley needs to make 79,826 models in 1,245,000 colors with 876,543 options. Oh, and they have to sell for under $6000. I have always been curious to know the extensive market research and focus groups used to come to these conclusions. I am guessing it involves, “me and my buddies sittin’ around talkin’.” Despite the economy and a lot of necessary fat trimming Harley still sold more motorcycles than any other manufacturer last year. Getting into an already over flowing sport bike market makes absolutely no sense at all. I love my Buell but my love doesn’t translate into a profitable company. More Road Kings sold in one month than the entire Buell line in one year. The profit from one line of CVO Harleys made more money than the entire Buell plant.
The XR is a Harley. It isn’t meant to be anything other than that. Like many Harleys it is a low production bike designed to fit into a nitch of an already developed market and hopefully expand the spot a little. It’s purpose isn’t to turn the heads of a group of people who have no intention of buying a Harley anyway.
I would continue but I have to go over to the Mac Truck Forum and tell them if they just would make a sports car better than a Ferrari for $5000 they would fly off the showroom floors.
David/cigarrz says
Is this styling the result of meeting government regulations or incompetence? The front fender is a ugly, surely a little bit of thought could have created something more compatible with those forks and wheel. Am I the only one that thinks this black out treatment is too much? The colors are incredibly stupid as is the tail light license bracket. The pipes speak for themselves, unfortunately it’s a language nobody understands. I would bet what remains of my retirement funds that Mule could make a perfectly street legal bike out of this that looked good and weighed a 100lbs less in a month of spare time. I just cant defend the motor co. with this example of screwing up a perfectly reasonable design objective.
Hoyt says
Good analogy w/Mack & Ferrari, but we’re not just talking about strict racebike models as being the source of variety. RK’s are spot on. We’re also not saying change that success. Here’s how HD invested millions in their last 2 new engine platforms…
One (developed with Porsche) was made heavier than the original intent then put into yet another cruiser chassis that didn’t meet sales expectations. The other million dollar + engine investment was tossed less than 2 years on the market, yet it had proven track success plus potential to power other diverse models at relatively little cost. Tell me you’re happy with that money spent with those results & don’t think that justifies questions
Mule says
@Rick
The reason you always see so many opinions of what Harley should build on the forums is because there are so many buyers out there that would like nothing more than to buy an American motorcycle product, but that Industry has pigeon holed itself into your “Mack Truck” nitch. So what does Harley do? Instead of providing a more diverse product line, they put their money into marketing a product that they already have a stranglehold on. It worked for 20 years. No argument there. Will it work for the next 5, 10 or 20? Indications are that it won’t. Is the XR1200 a half-hearted step in the right direction? Of course it is.
I’ll go on record as saying that I would rather buy a Harley than any other brand of bike made in the world……if and when they build a suitable bike that doesn’t weigh a jillion lbs, has competitive performance an in no way resembles a chopper. Until they do, I will continue to build my own stuff using an engine unit of theirs and nothing more.
When I built my first streetracker based on a Sportster motor and it appeared in Cycle World, Oct 1995, I proceeded to get over 400 phone calls in a 2 month period. And thousands more over the next 15 years (actually they evolved into emails). Same comment from almost every caller. “If Harley would just build some sort of lightweight version of the XR, I would buy a Harley. Why don’t they?” I still have all the names and phone numbers on a huge list. So what I’m saying is not just based on some anonymous ravings from a million different people wanting a million different models with a million different paintjobs. This is very specific! I get your point and it’s well taken. However, all the other motorcycle companies listen to all these diverse wants and needs and come up with all sorts of different models and sell the crap out of them. So your logic doesn’t hold true with every other company, just Harley, which doesn’t listen to anyone as far as I can see. If they did a market survey to people outside of the traditional “BigTwin” Harley customers and proposed the XR1200 model, how many people do you think would have asked for what they ended up bringing to market? I think there has always been a huge market for what they don’t make, but the chances of the “Accountant, non-motorcycle rider” that’s currently running the company, exploring these oppurtunities are zero. So we end up with the XR1200 as it is.
DoubleDB says
As much as I want to like the xr1200, I think a cheaper xr883 would be the better option for most. The 1200cc might be a bit much in terms of size and weight. If they were to bring it closer to 883 iron prices and stick that 883 engine in there, people would flock to it as a cheap cafe racer to compete with Triumph’s Thruxton.
Vinnie says
The problem with Harley Davidson is that they have lost their way.
They used to build competitive motorcycles through the 1960’s, and somewere along the way they got way too comfortable defining the cruiser market.
If William Harley and Arthur Davidson (the founders of HD) were alive to see their company today, they would be disgusted…………….and probally ride Ducati’s.
Where’s Harleys competitive spirit, if William and Arthur were running the company. I bet there would be a Harley on the grid at the next World Superbike Race.
For goodness sake their NYSE name is HOG….blahhhhh
LASOVAN says
Vinnie, you are” wrong”. They would probably ride Buells……………….sooooo sad!
Vinnie says
@LASOVAN
But they would want new bikes, and they wouldnt be able to find any new Buells.
zipidachimp says
why is HD doing nothing with the one modern engine they’ve kept?
more versions of the old dinosaur engine are surely not what the market is asking for.
but what do I know, I won’t buy anything over 750cc.
Ray says
I finally had the pleasure of test riding an XR1200 (leftover ’09 with Vance & Hines exhaust). I was pleasantly surprised by how fun the bike was to ride. I found myself grinning non-stop from the moment I got it above 35 mph. It was fun in twisty stuff, comfortable, easy to ride, easy to stop and full of character.
I am NOT a Harley rider. I’ve owned a couple of Ducatis, two Triumphs, an MV Agusta and a couple of Hondas (before I got bitten by the euro-bike bug). The XR was just plain fun to ride–and isn’t that what it’s all about anyway?
todd says
A Yamaha TW200 is fun to ride too.
-todd
Tinman says
All bikes are fun to ride, Can we agree on that? All bikes have their place in the market and riders have different wants and needs. Its a Big World out there and there is room for everyone and every kind of bike. From Trail Bikes to Sport Bikes and even Harleys, the most Imitated bike in the World. Ride what you like and be Happy!!
Cowpieapex says
I remember my first look at the XLCR in Pop’s Playboy Magazine. It may yet be the sexiest thing to ever grace their pages. When a few years later I rode my Ducati GT750 out to test one my heart was broken by lackluster power and heavy handling. I’m sure a Playmate would have treated me likewise.
Next week I intend to ride my beloved, personally built, Thunderbolt S3T over to the dealership and testride the XR1200. I hope there is at least a moment of passion in this little tryst but my hopes are tempered.
I hope HD is listening and these XRs are just the first stirrings of a new line. Yes a new XLCR would suit just fine. Maybe this time one thats more of an athlete than a model.
Cal H says
I rode an XR1200 a couple of weeks ago at a local dealers demo ride and was very disappointed. At 570 pounds or so with gas and oil this thing is a pig no matter how much lipstick you put on it. It is way slower than my Buell tt, doesn’t handle nearly as well and weighs around 120 pounds more. Oh yeah, I almost forgot it’s also 2 grand more expensive than a new Buell XB12 was. I’m not being a Harley hater, those are just the facts. This bike is unlikely to appeal to anyone that wasn’t already interested in owning a Harley. I’ve given up on trying to understand what Harley’s management is thinking but I don’t think that marketing can overcome a lack of engineering long term. Unlike Tinman I do not see the majority of motorcyclists “growing” into Harley owners as they get older. There are too many, much more functional choices available.
hoyt says
not only are there too many, much more functional choices available, but future 50+ year old riders will have grown up riding much better bikes from a functional perspective*. So, going to a cruiser when these riders get older is not necessarily as big of an option as it was in the early 90s for the returning baby boom generation.
*handling, braking, reasonable light weight.
jim says
53 years of Sportsters and this is the best H-D can do? Look at what Honda has done in the same time. Interesting that more parts on this bike are Japanese to make it work better. Maybe if they tried putting in a Japanese engine, they’d have something. All kidding aside, I’m baffled as to why there are no American manufacturers turning out great bikes of all kinds. Now Buell is gone, we’re stuck with overweight, overpriced, overrated cruisers and road bikes that appeal to a narrowing market segment. If we want a hot sport bike, all-around rider or small-displacement commuter, we have to look all over the globe. Why is that?
Mule says
Hey! Are you a Harley hater? You must be if you want something other than their usual offerings! At least thats what I heard.
brian says
i think its a pretty cool looking bike. For people who have said that “it is outside what the normal Harley customer wants”, this does not make sense, harley has a number of styles that appeal to different parts of its “base”. This is just one more option for the harley person who does not want a beefy hog. I think that the stock harley exhaust actually look pretty good. Also, I think that the bars look good on the bike. I will say that it looks better in with the black paint.
Richard Gozinya says
@jim, While it would be great if Harley would update its line up, they should never try to be another Honda. It just wouldn’t work for them. As for why there’s no American sportbike maker anymore, look what happened to Buell. They just didn’t sell that well, no matter how good they got. For many sportbike riders, it’s got to be from one of the Japanese brands, it has to have a water cooled inline four, it has to look a certain way.
I can see Harley perhaps taking the approach Ford took with the 5th generation Mustangs, or Moto Guzzi with the V11s, modernize but maintain a retro vibe, a link to their tradition, beyond that, they really have to tread cautiously.
Cal H says
The comment that Buells never sold well is not really accurate. Buell sold 13k bikes in 2008, about the same as Triumph in the US market and was essentially break even or at a slight profit. Also Buell had a much greater growth rate than most of the rest of the industry. It would have been much cheaper for Harley to keep Buell than the 125 million dollar writedown they took to close the company. Essentially Harley chose to double down on their present strategy of favoring marketing over engineering expertise. I think the XR1200 is emblematic of this. Harley is betting that a restyled, overweight sportster can be sold as a performance bike. It can’t. Look for the model to be gone in a couple of years.
Harley management is really starting to look like GM’s and we all know how that story turned out. Or for another perspective go read Bert Hopwood’s book “Whatever Happened To The British Motorcycle Industry?”. Harley’s product line gets more outdated every year as its demograpic becomes ever older. This is an unsustainable business model. The fact that Harley has been (at least until recently) hugely profitable is irrelevant. The mid to late 1960s were very profitable for the British motorcycle industry, by 1975 it was gone.
Fred W. says
Total waste of money. When is Harley Davidson going to get smart and really design a new bike. I am tired of HD with there “New Model”. This is just a re bagged sportster and to call this thing a sport bike is just plain stupid. I can really understand why HD is in so much trouble. Your typical Harley dealer will not even want to sell this bike in the first place. They would rather sell a cruiser with all the hi dollar ad on’s which is what Harley is all about anyway. 1940’s technology at today’s prices……
Tinman says
Fred, are you aware that HD was the 1st to go with disk brakes,and hydralic lifters? My HD has Electronic Fuel Injection as they all do, Belt drive that HD pioneered, Electronic Ignition and fit and finish that is unsurpassed in a mass market bike. Add in ABS brakes, throttle by wire, air suspension that is adjustable on the Fly and Your 1940s tech must be more advanced than things were on this Planet!!
todd says
um, it’s well known that Honda had the first production motorcycle with disc brakes, the CB750 in 1969. Harley added a disc to the XL in ’73 with the infusion of cash from AMF. The 1867 Michaux – Perreaux Steam Velocipede had a belt drive…
-todd
Mike L. says
This looks like an AMF product, complete with ’70’s styling
Cowpieapex says
I finally went to my dealer and took that test ride. I took the XR1200 to a nearby twisted (and buckled) mountain road.
This is not a cruiser.
It is not a restyled sportster.
The motor integrates the best upgrades that Buell developed for oiling and power delivery. I didn’t thrash the new 140 mile motor but power was smooth and quite progressive. The belt drive with idler was shaft like, with no lash. Cornering clearance was impeccable allowing you to carry speed through tight corners with rock solid stability.
At this weight it is not a flickable supermoto, but the handling dynamics allow a skilled rider to explore limits far beyond anything else made in America at this time.
The upgraded suspension of the X should make it possible to match the qualities I’ve built into My Buell, but the XR1200 I rode was a bit stiff over broken surfaces. This will be a wonderful bike for embarrasing boy racers on overpowered superbikes on real roads. This bike has a superb balance of handling, power and stability that allows the skilled rider to achieve high levels of real world performance.
A pig? No more so than any other large high performance twin. Including BMW Ducati or Moto Guzzi. I think you are going to nearly double your purchase price before you are going to step cleanly away with any other bike in this class.
Shifty says
I think there are too many critical bikers out there. I test rode an XR1200 and had a ball. I don’t need a super performance sportbike that I’m laying down on uncomfortably nor need to get killed going too fast in a twisty. Thumbs up for the XR!
Mike says
I enjoyed reading all of these comments and although I am comfortable riding a dyna I too think Harley’s profitable years are behind them if they don’t adapt quicker than in years past. I don’t think I would buy this bike, but then I’ve not been too fond of sportys. Funny cause I got a lot of enjoyment out of my ’68 Bonnie and think I’d go for a Duati if that was my riding intention. I am getting older and although bagger may be in my future the thought of wrestling with a heavy full dresser isn’t too appealing…bring back the FXRT at least it was a lighter, (arguably) better handling big bike and a bike who’s time has come. Mike.
Zyalatr says
I don’t get it… Have any of you that are critiking the XR1200X ever ridden an XR 1000???
I bought one in 1983 and they were the torque monsters back then (uphill on Hwy 9 from Saratoga to Hwy 35 and then to Alices…) Yankee Enginuity in San Jose tuned it ! I ate the Jap stuff up…..I have numorous bikes but that was the best..It was an animal ..Never knew what it was gonna do next!!! I have a XR1200X on its way …As for Sport bikes ,I also own a Triumph Daytona Super III .. NO Not a Rocket III (for you novices ) and a 1974 Triumph Trident (Norman Hyde Kit and Dunstall’s) . The Super III is also very rare( Cosworth engineered motor) and heavy but it has top of the line suspension ..The rear can be adjusted while you ride !
I’m 53 and have been riding in Germany and also did the Dragon !
Zyalatr says
BTW .. I have seen the same 1200 motor pump out almost 140 hp on a Buell at the back wheel ! I think that Harley will still be in business decades from now !
mcmalibu says
Took my boys to look at motorcycles on Mulholland yesterday … at a certain food stop we walked the line up. I noticed a xr1200 … my boys at 5 and 7 didn’t. The denim and overpatched Harley guy (my 7 year old said reminded him of his cub scout shirt) said it was a Honda with Harley badging and said riding it was akin to a TSA pat down (Harley guys have good humor imho). A Ducati guy in Italinan biker bondage leather commented that the xr is about as sporting as shuffle board (not as humorous). My 7 year old liked the 20k worth of carbon fiber on the 20k Aprilla … my 5 year old said the blue flamed fat boy was the fastest motorcycle in the world and anything with flames is always faster. Go figure!
Zyalatr says
Well, I guess that most of the “Harley D Haters” have never ridden a TORQUE driven m/c..I just don’t understand the logic of people that spew !!. Horsepower is great but we are in the USA and not on the Autobahn ….. I have an Autohahn bike( The Super III) It loves the 100mph and for long term.. The Harley is pure beast to 100 mph..Folks.. now tell mee where the fun is ??? We are in a speed limited country !
Zyalatr says
I just picked mine up today…20 degrees and snow..can’t wait till about 40 degrees to slide around on the salty roads in MN
Roger says
It makes for a better cruiser, except for the space for bags on a trip which could be easily corrected. All sportsters should have this engine as an option, and all Harley’s should have the Buell belt tensioner and the Buell drive belt for a longer lasting belt drive. Harley doesn’t claim that is is a true sport bike, and they should just sell it as an improved sportster that can be taken more places. They could sell it as an adventure bike if they added hard bags, a single shock and a few other options. They also need an XR Scg model like Buell had to fit more people who would buy it if they could touch both feet flat on the ground. I know that if I was in charge of marketing this bike I could sell a lot of them with just these few extra options that would fit the desires of a much broader base of people. However this is a very low maintenance bike that with a few options for hard bags and weather protection would make a great commuter bike as well as adventure bike which would compete well with the BMW 1200 series. Harley is on the right path with this bike, but they just have to add the few options mentioned and sell them properly to make it a seller to the riders who now ride the BMW 1200 series and pay a lot more for their bikes as well as more for maintenance.
Jeff B says
Well well I see there are a lot of doubters out there as to what the XR1200 is capable of. Like any Harley owner who wants a cookie cutter. I have had mine for 2 yrs now with 40 modifications. What nobody seems to understand the XR is not great at any one thing its good at all of them. As far as fat yes she is or was, I’ll have mine below 500lbs wet next week. HD builds there bikes (over engineered) for the lowest common denominator of a person. My bike has been flaw free so far and is fun to ride. Will it be a super bike I think not however as far as HP is concerned 92BHP is the current number. I have seen XR’s pushing 100BHP and I’m sure you could build one with 140hp at a very large cost and have a time bomb on your hands. It is true that it is torque that moves us. Boys you cant ride a dyno sheet. I love the bike, hey your either in or out, I’m in. Has Harley built a perfect bike I say nope thats why I have modified mine and many of the mods are custom one off parts I made myself without ruining the classic style. Will it beat the competition bikes out there on the road driven by pie faced kids,sure it can with the right rider because at the end of every straight away there is a turn and coming out of that turn is where the torque is needed most. I have been down at the dragon and the bike handles exceptionally well even in the rain, you do however need to work the weigh. Its a fun bike to ride, it wheelies just fine and it will do 132mph when needed. At 50yrs old I’m not scared. Like one person I know who owns one says “when you turn your bike on does it repay the favor” mine does
steve says
Jeff I would be interested in what modifications you have done.
Steve
Richard says
Let’s face it the facts here. With the technology that HD incorporate into their engines and frames, they will never be building a true performance sport bike. As Looks go, I actually think the XR1200R looks very nice. I once had a Honda 550 with a Tracy Fiberglass one piece body that looked similar. I built that back in 1979. I have always like clean lines like this one has. No chrome, like this one has. But I also demand performance on tap at all times for the bikes I ride. I have worked for three different HD dealerships in the Pacific NW, and now how the engines are built. It’s still basically a 1935 design. Sure some things have improved, but the basic design is a big bore, long stroke, pushrod 60 degree V-Twin. This just isn’t where performance can breed and grow. Ducatti with it’s 90 degree v-twin and desi heads are far more performance based engines, and any Japanese inline 600cc 4 sport bike will produce more HP, and do it at 13,000 rpm too.
Nope, if HD ever want to make a true performance bike, they will have to bring in new designers, scrap the V-Twin idea, learn how to weld and fabricate a proper performance Chromoly or aluminum boxed chasis, with real performace oriented suspension, and make an inline tripple or four cylinder super bike, and SHOCK the world with it. HD needs to break free of the V-Twin if they ever want to tap into the performance market. Keep the big V-twins for that staunch HD American market that they have owned ever since the James Dean days, but never try to pass them off as Performance anything. They aren’t. And Buell?, they were the ungliest bikes on the Planet, but had some performance. Still, any Japanese 600 CC sport bike wold eave them in the dust. There was a reason that Super bikes were 1,000cc inline 4s, because that’s where the performance was, until Ducatti and Aprila caught up with their V-twns.
Anyway. I still like the looks of the bike, but it should not weight any more than 425lbs Tops. There is no reason for it be that heavy. If there was an American Made inline 4, and Harley sold it, AND had good performance AND reliability, they would sell faster than $1 tickets to a Bikini Contest in Ft. Lauderdale during spring break !!
Of course this IS…just my opinion. A 51 year old, 40 year motorcycle riding, building, and performance enthusiast. Every bike has it’s place…Road kings, sport bikes, crotch rockets, cruisers, V-twins, inline 3,4, and 6’s, and flat opposed 4 and 6’s. even singles.. They are ALL FUN, and have their place. Just don’t confuse them.