I watched this video before I bought this bike in 2019, i can't be more happier. excellent Sportster, i call it the mini RoadKing. It is plenty of power. Brake are strong for my standard but no scary and ABS are not intrusive. Yes it get 2 ABS front and back. I'm 5ft6 and i have a lot of buffeting from the wind shield, one can get an extender from eBay. however the windshield protect me from wind hitting my chest so I only ride it with windshield. one can wear ear plugs they are great and help with buffeting noise. This windshield have no key-lock and can be easily stollen, it is extremely expensive at HD, one need to buy a lock from HD at least one before going into touring. Finding neutral is so easy, i never miss it. however I tried a Sportster 48 and the neutral was impossible to find the dealer told that is normal. i don't think so. I'm 145 lb the suspension at Zero setting as HD suggest it is too soft and bottom up quickly when going over bumps at high speed. I set the suspension 3 turn or 6 clicks and the bike handel the bumps much better. one can stiff the suspension even harder to add more stability in the twisty. With 2up means with a passenger, you must set the suspension to the maximum. It is very nice ride 2up and engine is plenty of power. The breaks are strong and nice even with 2up no problems at all. The breaks are really safe to use and will stop you very fast so be careful. do not compare them to a light sport bike brakes. If you put very strong breaks at a cruiser it will have tendency to lean to the sides at stop and my crash. The front light at night is not that good or maybe mine is offset. I never ride at night anyways . It's fuel consumption is as Harley stated in the city and outside, but on the highway it will drink benzine like a mad crazy, i maxed on highway 116 mils before it runs completely of gaz. I got already a 2/3 gallon benzine ready for that test, Harley told e it is because the engine is still new and tight. in the city i do ride 160 miles/3 gallon before the low fuel indicator light up. The low fuel indicator, it comes on at 2,3 gallon fuel left almost all time. it is not that much accurate , but do the job fine. Cruising outside city no vibration and very cool feeling. however on the highway it vibrate a bit nothing crazy. at 5th gear and passed 3500rpm the bike will vibrate and one will feel the vibration everywhere. That what HD is for! The saddles bags: Right side heat up a lot from inside and any drinking liquide will be warm after a very short ride, better use the right one. Any polished item left inside the saddle bags will be completely fully of scratches. one need to warp anything before letting it sit inside the saddlebags . i always carry a small fabric and paper bag on both saddles. The saddles are rain proof , i tested them under a rain storm for 15 minutes. the small screws holding the saddlebag top cover comes all loose after 900 miles, they are so small and get quickly loose , need regular check. Original Battery, it is dead after 4 months hibernation winter season, i left it on tender for 4 months, even then it is dead, the tender is a 12v 1,25A. HD replaced the battery under warranty and without discussions, very cool. they told me I got a bad serie of battery. I like this bike a lot, i think in the far future i will get THE RoadKing and maybe i will keep this mini RoadKing. 😍 Hope my small review will help some one there.
Congratulation ! i wish you a lot of fun. I call this bike the Mini Road King. Pay attention to the saddle bag cover the small screws may come loose quickly you need to check them before too late. I added sissy bare for my wife, unfortunately COVID-19 ruined my trip, i will try to go on trip this year with my wife to Germany. Have fun and enjoy it !
Thanks for the review. I just bought a 2015 in March. It is utilitarian but still fun enough for me. I am 5'5" and it gives me the flat-footed confidence I can't get from a lot of others. I have lived in Seattle 19 years and am seeing more of the Pacific Northwest because of this bike. I love it.
My absolute favourite Sportster. The windshield is quick detach and is useless without an extension; but just some new bars and seat totally transforms the bike. It’s got very long peg feelers so the limited lean angle is in a way, just an illusion. The rear shock also has quite a lot of adjustment (almost 30 clicks IIRC). The big boy horn, 4.5gal tank, and ample chrome are all bonuses.
I loved this bike. However on highways the front end vibrates too much at 110kph to a point where I felt it was unsafe. It was not what I wanted to tour on as I found it inadequate for my riding on the highway traffic speed. So I regrettably sold it after owning the sportster 1200T only for two months.
I have the same H-D Compact windshield and I'm 5'6" tall. No buffeting at all for me. I've ridden with and without it. No way can I ride without it. It's only noticeable if you look for it. Mid-controls are perfect for my bad back. Cast wheels, hard bags and not too much bling. Perfect bike for me - the Sportster Bagger. Love it!!!!!
Just bought the same bike, had a two hour ride home to get acquainted with her.Found her very comfortable.She has forward footpegs so that takes getting used to.
Thanks, looking to buy these bags for my custom. Yours was the first video out of 20 that actually opened the bag!!! All I wanted to see was the inside. Excited to get these. A set of bags without multiple latches to forget
Hi mate, I took a demo on the 1200 T after having a 48 a few years ago, I really liked it, didn't like the mid pegs so getting forward controls, I'm looking forward to doing a few miles on my new 1200 T it's got Cobra slip ons as well sounds sweet, Great Review 👍
Definitely not the best looking Sportster but there's something cool about it. Like you said, it's a mini sport tourer which I like. Great review, I'm going to check one out!
I havent rode the sportster T model but would love for my wife to get one she loves sportsters! She is riding a street 500 at the moment but I am sure by next year she will be wanting something else
Spot on review, Exactly like mine. I'm 6!1" and I have the forward pegs and the wind doesn't bother me. Changed the silencers for Cobras and it sounds proper now. Had it from new 2018. next job taller handlebars. Would like to ask what's the best way to clean the aluminium wheels?
Normally like my bikes pretty naked, but this has caught my fancy.....remove the windshield and the engine guards and you have a v cool base to build on. Nice review Mark, ride safe. Sportster Sickness Ireland.
The Original Retro Bike Look !!! ;-) I have a 2015 Harley Super Low T and love it for what it is. It is currently in the shop being repaired from an accident I had this past May 2nd when a Pickup Truck ran into me traveling at 40mph. Nice video by the way. My bike is the same color as the one in your video. I also own a 2016 Motto Guzzi V7II that is also in the shop for electrical problems or such. Two Bikes and both have left me riderless, sigh ... Oh Well ...
thanks for the review. This bike really looks great. However, would you recommend it for a guy that has 0 motorcycle experience? I am already 48 years old, so I know from myself that I can controle myself very well. The main reason I would think about getting this bike is because I just love Harley Davidson, the bike is very low (I am short) and it gives me the opportunity to travel. First I will need to follow some basic courses of course
I have the 2009 version of this Harley great motorcycle I’m 5’11 and it’s kinda small for me but it’s like a toy. I own a deluxe too both awesome motorcycles don’t regret nothing. 1200 super low weights 500lbs The deluxe weights 800lbs .
Great review Mark.not really fussed on this model it just looks a little old fashioned to me no wow factor.how is the new iron coming along .you've got me thinking of trading in my street bob for the 48 special love it with the cherry tank.cheers can't wait to see the iron.
Had one , great except the speed limit here is 80. Needs a 6th gear. Also I make 440 mile trips in one day to see parents. Fine one way, thought I would surely die on way back. New low rider no problems same distance, just tired hip flexors. Low rider actually got 53 mpg at 80. Superlow 51.
As someone that is very short and likes to ride from morning to night to see where the road can take me, this would be a great bike. 1200cc would make it more than decent for a few hours of interstate as well.
Another great review...love to watch your videos! I have the 2016 model of the 1200T and have a lot of fun with it. But it was my understanding that Harley stopped production of the 1200T after the 2017 model year. Is the 2018 model only available outside the United States, or am I just misinformed?
Nice review! I know the lean angle is short but personally, how's the u-turn capabilities? Can you still u-turn it within 2 parking spaces just like the other sportsters? 🤔 thanks ahead for the reply 🙂
Great review, how does it compare to the Indian Scout, maybe after something like this light low and with touring capability, I know a scout dress is 14k
Hi. Thanks for great reviews. How do you think, which motorcycle is more comfortable to cruising ( long distance riding): 1200t superlow or softail slim?
Found a 2015 near me that is a great price for me right now. The more of these videos I find though I’m strongly second guessing it. I’m 6’3” 290lbs and I guarantee I’ll look completely absurd on this bike. Damn shame.
nice review about a mini tourer, definitely too much chrome to clean.Have you done a review of the sportster 1200 custom if so when as I would love to hear your review of it,
i got mine this year and is great for my first harley davidson very happy only thing is not ok is the soud not best one but very great drive and torque i love the torque for pass the cars grettings from Portugal
Greetings from Mexico , I like your channel and reviews, i would like a review about 1200 custom, what's is your opinion about this motorcycle, thank you so much and keep going whit this amazing videos
Yeah not my cup of tea the windshield. I get why they have one though. Scraping the pegs, you’re riding her to hard! You should have popped a wheelie on the highway, really put her through her paces 😂😂 Yeah I’m a bit Chromophobic myself! Nice review man 👌
Great review, thank you buddy, I just bought a 2009 XL1200 Sportster with 4200 mile on it really clean infact like brand new,
I watched this video before I bought this bike in 2019, i can't be more happier. excellent Sportster, i call it the mini RoadKing.
It is plenty of power.
Brake are strong for my standard but no scary and ABS are not intrusive. Yes it get 2 ABS front and back.
I'm 5ft6 and i have a lot of buffeting from the wind shield, one can get an extender from eBay. however the windshield protect me from wind hitting my chest so I only ride it with windshield. one can wear ear plugs they are great and help with buffeting noise.
This windshield have no key-lock and can be easily stollen, it is extremely expensive at HD, one need to buy a lock from HD at least one before going into touring.
Finding neutral is so easy, i never miss it. however I tried a Sportster 48 and the neutral was impossible to find the dealer told that is normal. i don't think so.
I'm 145 lb the suspension at Zero setting as HD suggest it is too soft and bottom up quickly when going over bumps at high speed. I set the suspension 3 turn or 6 clicks and the bike handel the bumps much better. one can stiff the suspension even harder to add more stability in the twisty.
With 2up means with a passenger, you must set the suspension to the maximum. It is very nice ride 2up and engine is plenty of power.
The breaks are strong and nice even with 2up no problems at all. The breaks are really safe to use and will stop you very fast so be careful. do not compare them to a light sport bike brakes. If you put very strong breaks at a cruiser it will have tendency to lean to the sides at stop and my crash.
The front light at night is not that good or maybe mine is offset. I never ride at night anyways .
It's fuel consumption is as Harley stated in the city and outside, but on the highway it will drink benzine like a mad crazy, i maxed on highway 116 mils before it runs completely of gaz. I got already a 2/3 gallon benzine ready for that test, Harley told e it is because the engine is still new and tight. in the city i do ride 160 miles/3 gallon before the low fuel indicator light up.
The low fuel indicator, it comes on at 2,3 gallon fuel left almost all time. it is not that much accurate , but do the job fine.
Cruising outside city no vibration and very cool feeling. however on the highway it vibrate a bit nothing crazy. at 5th gear and passed 3500rpm the bike will vibrate and one will feel the vibration everywhere. That what HD is for!
The saddles bags: Right side heat up a lot from inside and any drinking liquide will be warm after a very short ride, better use the right one.
Any polished item left inside the saddle bags will be completely fully of scratches. one need to warp anything before letting it sit inside the saddlebags . i always carry a small fabric and paper bag on both saddles.
The saddles are rain proof , i tested them under a rain storm for 15 minutes.
the small screws holding the saddlebag top cover comes all loose after 900 miles, they are so small and get quickly loose , need regular check.
Original Battery, it is dead after 4 months hibernation winter season, i left it on tender for 4 months, even then it is dead, the tender is a 12v 1,25A. HD replaced the battery under warranty and without discussions, very cool. they told me I got a bad serie of battery.
I like this bike a lot, i think in the far future i will get THE RoadKing and maybe i will keep this mini RoadKing. 😍
Hope my small review will help some one there.
I was so impressed, I bought a XL1200T Superlow. Thank you
Congratulation ! i wish you a lot of fun. I call this bike the Mini Road King.
Pay attention to the saddle bag cover the small screws may come loose quickly you need to check them before too late.
I added sissy bare for my wife, unfortunately COVID-19 ruined my trip, i will try to go on trip this year with my wife to Germany.
Have fun and enjoy it !
Thanks for the review. I just bought a 2015 in March. It is utilitarian but still fun enough for me. I am 5'5" and it gives me the flat-footed confidence I can't get from a lot of others. I have lived in Seattle 19 years and am seeing more of the Pacific Northwest because of this bike. I love it.
Deb Dettman awesome mate, great feedback from a rider that owns one 👍
My absolute favourite Sportster. The windshield is quick detach and is useless without an extension; but just some new bars and seat totally transforms the bike. It’s got very long peg feelers so the limited lean angle is in a way, just an illusion. The rear shock also has quite a lot of adjustment (almost 30 clicks IIRC). The big boy horn, 4.5gal tank, and ample chrome are all bonuses.
best review by far, why doesn't everyone do this, you took the windshield of went round the storage, spoke about upgrades for exhaust.. nice.
I loved this bike. However on highways the front end vibrates too much at 110kph to a point where I felt it was unsafe. It was not what I wanted to tour on as I found it inadequate for my riding on the highway traffic speed. So I regrettably sold it after owning the sportster 1200T only for two months.
I recently bought a 2017 model with stage 1 tune and vance and hines straight shots. Sounds great and goes well too.
I have the same H-D Compact windshield and I'm 5'6" tall. No buffeting at all for me. I've ridden with and without it. No way can I ride without it. It's only noticeable if you look for it. Mid-controls are perfect for my bad back. Cast wheels, hard bags and not too much bling. Perfect bike for me - the Sportster Bagger. Love it!!!!!
Just bought the same bike, had a two hour ride home to get acquainted with her.Found her very comfortable.She has forward footpegs so that takes getting used to.
Thanks, looking to buy these bags for my custom. Yours was the first video out of 20 that actually opened the bag!!! All I wanted to see was the inside. Excited to get these. A set of bags without multiple latches to forget
Hi mate, I took a demo on the 1200 T after having a 48 a few years ago, I really liked it, didn't like the mid pegs so getting forward controls, I'm looking forward to doing a few miles on my new 1200 T it's got Cobra slip ons as well sounds sweet, Great Review 👍
I like that spoke config.
Definitely not the best looking Sportster but there's something cool about it. Like you said, it's a mini sport tourer which I like. Great review, I'm going to check one out!
Jim Mansi I agree fella.
Love the 1200 superlow wheels! They are quite sexy, and the 17 inch rear wheel allows for some really nice sport bike tires!
I personally love it. I’m 5’10 but I got it for my 16th birthday. And it’s a lot better than my Yamaha Virago
great vid just what I was looking for. Im 5' 2", ive booked a test ride on a 2014 model but will be looking to buy a later one. Thanks
I havent rode the sportster T model but would love for my wife to get one she loves sportsters! She is riding a street 500 at the moment but I am sure by next year she will be wanting something else
Rennie Smith i think she will as well! There is always a progression when you start the harley journey.
Motonewbrider i agree I have had 2 sportsters 2 dynas a heritage a road king and now a street glide and maybe a road glide soon?
Spot on review, Exactly like mine. I'm 6!1" and I have the forward pegs and the wind doesn't bother me. Changed the silencers for Cobras and it sounds proper now. Had it from new 2018. next job taller handlebars. Would like to ask what's the best way to clean the aluminium wheels?
Degreaser, a wheel brush, some soapy water and a wash mit will have your wheels looking nice and clean. Just don't let the degreaser sit too long.
Get better soon!
C Trone cheers 👍
Normally like my bikes pretty naked, but this has caught my fancy.....remove the windshield and the engine guards and you have a v cool base to build on. Nice review Mark, ride safe. Sportster Sickness Ireland.
Bernard Connery thanks fella 👍
The Original Retro Bike Look !!! ;-) I have a 2015 Harley Super Low T and love it for what it is. It is currently in the shop being repaired from an accident I had this past May 2nd when a Pickup Truck ran into me traveling at 40mph. Nice video by the way. My bike is the same color as the one in your video. I also own a 2016 Motto Guzzi V7II that is also in the shop for electrical problems or such. Two Bikes and both have left me riderless, sigh ... Oh Well ...
thanks for the review. This bike really looks great. However, would you recommend it for a guy that has 0 motorcycle experience? I am already 48 years old, so I know from myself that I can controle myself very well. The main reason I would think about getting this bike is because I just love Harley Davidson, the bike is very low (I am short) and it gives me the opportunity to travel. First I will need to follow some basic courses of course
The bike would be perfect for someone starting out that can control themselves!
Good to see you man!!!
mike essary cheers buddy! Just been busy with “real life” 👍
Motonewbrider I hope all is well and Dr Mike prescribes motorcycle therapy for most of my patients!! Peace bro
I have the 2009 version of this Harley great motorcycle I’m 5’11 and it’s kinda small for me but it’s like a toy. I own a deluxe too both awesome motorcycles don’t regret nothing.
1200 super low weights 500lbs
The deluxe weights 800lbs .
Great review Mark.not really fussed on this model it just looks a little old fashioned to me no wow factor.how is the new iron coming along .you've got me thinking of trading in my street bob for the 48 special love it with the cherry tank.cheers can't wait to see the iron.
Steven Edwards lol, flipping reviews mate they always have you thinking about other bikes 👍😂.
Really helpful review Mark, I will be considering this as my next bike, thanks for the review
Had one , great except the speed limit here is 80. Needs a 6th gear. Also I make 440 mile trips in one day to see parents. Fine one way, thought I would surely die on way back. New low rider no problems same distance, just tired hip flexors. Low rider actually got 53 mpg at 80. Superlow 51.
Hi...sorry speed cruising is 80 ? I think is enough. ...top speed could be 110 for a 1200cc
Need a 6 gear I agree you're right
HD did not offer this model in the states for 2018.
As someone that is very short and likes to ride from morning to night to see where the road can take me, this would be a great bike. 1200cc would make it more than decent for a few hours of interstate as well.
Damm, that looks so good I might break down and wash mine !
Hi. Very nice review. I am 5 ft 6 In. Do you think the superlow is suited for me?
I'm pretty sure I watched another video that said that the screen was adjustable. Is it?
Yeah the screen has quick release clamps on the forks
Liam Gale adjustable in height he means i think....and it's too adjustable..only a handle move to put a bit up
Another great review...love to watch your videos! I have the 2016 model of the 1200T and have a lot of fun with it. But it was my understanding that Harley stopped production of the 1200T after the 2017 model year. Is the 2018 model only available outside the United States, or am I just misinformed?
Slow Ride thanks buddy. They still produce them for the uk 🇬🇧 market mate.
Oh ok...good deal, I didn't realize that. Thanks for the reply!
Nice review! I know the lean angle is short but personally, how's the u-turn capabilities? Can you still u-turn it within 2 parking spaces just like the other sportsters? 🤔 thanks ahead for the reply 🙂
Great review, how does it compare to the Indian Scout, maybe after something like this light low and with touring capability, I know a scout dress is 14k
Wayne Dilworth I’d prefer to have this bike for touring capabilities. But the scout definitely has more looks in my eyes.
Thank you.
Hi. Thanks for great reviews. How do you think, which motorcycle is more comfortable to cruising ( long distance riding): 1200t superlow or softail slim?
Found a 2015 near me that is a great price for me right now. The more of these videos I find though I’m strongly second guessing it. I’m 6’3” 290lbs and I guarantee I’ll look completely absurd on this bike. Damn shame.
what camera do you use?
You had mentioned the rear suspension was stiff. Did you ever soften the shocks?
If so how did it ride?
Thanks
Toujours bien tes revues !!! Continue. Sous titres en français peut être ????
which is better superlow or iron ?
Really nice video 👍
should i be worried of overheating the engine since it is air cooled ?
No worries, the engine is very easy and is not tuned to high performances
Another cloudy day in the UK? Shoulda thunk it? Haha. Nice review man
Ryan's V-Twin Vlogs always 😂😂😂😂😂
nice review about a mini tourer, definitely too much chrome to clean.Have you done a review of the sportster 1200 custom if so when as I would love to hear your review of it,
Geoffrey Page will try and get my hands on one mate 👍
Thanks for the review.
Thank you for the test. It's very usefull for me.
Cool review!! Thanks for doing it :)
I reckon removing the windshield is the extent of your spannering capabilities
Liam Francomb I’m starting to realise this in the comments section.
Liam Francomb removing the windshield has nothing to do with a spanner 🔧.
Motonewbrider
My point exactly
Liam Francomb lol 😂.
i got mine this year and is great for my first harley davidson very happy only thing is not ok is the soud not best one but very great drive and torque i love the torque for pass the cars grettings from Portugal
I’ve always hated the wheels they put on 1200 customs
I thought they stopped making the SuperLow 1200T in 2017?
Brian Grimm still produce this in the uk 🇬🇧 mate.
Motonewbrider Right on! My wife has a 2016 1200T, she loves it, but she’s ready to upgrade to the Sport Glide.✌🏼
Greetings from Mexico , I like your channel and reviews, i would like a review about 1200 custom, what's is your opinion about this motorcycle, thank you so much and keep going whit this amazing videos
Excellent review buddy 👊
What name of the foot pegs? They look wider
Stock
you should start an apparel line mate, id take a 'Chrome free zone' tee lol
Al Crabby mate you have given me an idea 👍
Motonewbrider full of ideas me mate. (50/50 split for my IP 😉 lol)
I like those wheels
To bad it was cut from the line, it really is a awesome bike...
The stock sound is more than enough for me..
you should First Ride a new ROAD KING CLASSIC.
Почему американцы говорят без остановки? Я тут помедитировать зашел, а он говорит без остановки.
Nice little bike that . You need to get some descent gloves
Mark Fraser admittedly they are not protective enough. Thanks for watching
Yeah not my cup of tea the windshield. I get why they have one though. Scraping the pegs, you’re riding her to hard! You should have popped a wheelie on the highway, really put her through her paces 😂😂 Yeah I’m a bit Chromophobic myself! Nice review man 👌
StreetBobberVlogger thanks buddy - it’s a particular taste in the sportster range - but we’ve got to have equal rights for the chromosexual’s
En Français svp
I find this bike a bit bland....BTW bought new bike...and guess what not a Harley....I couldn't afford $50,000 for a Softail Slim...
The quieter the better.
Shame about the ABS!
I’m not a fan of the wheels
That ridiculously humongous license plate is begging to be snapped in half by a foot.
Harleys not for cry babys