Just when you thought the Sportster’s days were numbered, Harley-Davidson have brought out their most radical Roadster to date: the XL1200CX. Yes, the XR took things further but Harley were very keen to point out that it was an XR not an XL. This is every inch an XL … and then some.
Anticipating that the market might have matured since last time they fitted trick suspension to the XL1200S, the new Roadster comes with 43mm USD cartridge forks in revised steering geometry up front and new rear tri-rate suspension using ‘Emulsion Technology’ with a threaded pre-load adjustment, and more suspension travel than anything else in the range.
Add twin front discs, a new speedo head with an analogue tacho round the dial and an inset digital speedo, relatively rearset footrests and low-rise handlebars, and new intricate lightweight cast wheels inspired by classic laced wheels and you’ve got a thoroughly modern Sportster that plays to the model’s strengths.
Obviously, we won’t get the ultra-stumpy cropped version with the minimal rear mudguard that accompanies the American-market model with its side-mount plate, but I expect that dealers will do a roaring trade in that simple modification.
Harley-Davidson Roadster highlights
- 1200cc Evolution engine
- Premium emulsion technology rear suspension with screw-style pre-load adjustment
- 43mm inverted front forks with premium cartridge dampening technology and triple clamp design
- Dual disc front brakes with ABS
- Optimised steering geometry for a responsive, confidence-inspiring ride
- Two-up seat with ribbed detail and minimalist styling
- Lightweight offset-split 5-spoke Cast Aluminium wheels – 19in front, 18in rear
- Mid-mount footpeg controls
- Chopped front and rear fenders
- Low rise handlebar
- Finned cast timer cover
- Custom tank graphics
Prices in the UK start at £9,695 for Vivid Black, £9,895 for colour and £10,145 for two tone.
#HarleyDavidson #Roadster #LiveYourLegend #XL1200CX
