Harley-Davidson XR1200
With its wide bars, small gas tank and single seat, the XR roadster did a good job of impersonating the style of the all-conquering XR750. Paintwork in Milwaukee factory orange- and-black was more authentic than the alternative silver.
Harley-Davidson disappointed some fans in its home country when the firm ■ announced that the XR1200, a street-legal V-twin inspired by the legendary XR750 flat-tracker, would not initially be sold in the United States. The lean and stylish XR1200 was built for Europe, where sporty bikes were more popular than they are in the States, and was the first ever Milwaukee model created specifically for export.
The XR was heavily based on Harley’s Sportster 1200. Its air-cooled powerplant had identical I202cc capacity and dimensions, and was tuned with a new intake system, hot camshaft, increased compression ratio and lighter flywheel. Peak output was 90bhp at 7000rpm. a gain of 20bhp. Chassis changes included a new rear subframe, more rigid
The XR was too heavy to handle like a true sports bike, but its uprated suspension, stijfer swingarm and lighter wheels meant it coped with hard cornering much better than a standard Sportster. In several countries Harley organized one-make XR1200 road-race series, in which hordes of near identical V-twins produced some close and spectacular action. swingarm, firmer suspension, new cast wheels and four-piston Nissin front brake calipers.
By most manufacturers’ standards the XR was no sports bike, but it was great fun to ride. It rumbled to over 125mph (201km/h), handled and stopped efficiently, and did a good job of bringing the flat-track XR's style and character to the street. The XR1200 was competitively priced, too, which helped make it popular in Europe - and led to its belated arrival in the US market a year later.
- Engine Air-cooled ohv pushrod four-valve 45-degree V-twin
- Capaciy 1202cc (88.8 x 96.8mm)
- Maximum power 90bhp @ 7000rpm
- Transmission Five-speed, belt final drivE
- Frame Tubular steel
- Suspension Telescopic front; monoshock rear
- Brakes Twin discs front; disc rear
- Weight 550lb (250kg)
- Top speed 130mph (209km/h)
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