Harley-Davidson Sportster SuperLow 1200T 2014 — Specifications

Do you dream of road trips with the deep rumble of a Harley V-twin, but the imposing silhouette of an Electra Glide seems a bridge too far? Milwaukee may have your answer. The Sportster SuperLow 1200T, a hybrid proposition that attempts to marry the compact spirit of the Sportster range with the attributes of a tourer. A motorcycle of compromise, or the ideal entry point into touring for a specific audience?

Beneath its appearance, it’s a SuperLow 883 that’s taken hormones. The seat height remains ridiculously low, barely 702 mm, a major asset for beginners or those who appreciate ease when stopped. The dual cradle frame is familiar, but the footpegs are advanced for a more touring-oriented posture. The real change comes from the engine. We move from the 883 to 1202 cm³, an increase in displacement that translates to 67 horsepower and 96 Nm of torque. That’s enough to animate the machine with authority, especially with this torque available from 3750 rpm. The comparison with the big twin cam of the Touring models is, however, undeniable: here, we have liveliness, but not extravagance. The weight, at 271 kg fully fueled, remains much lighter than that of a Road King, an advantage in agility, but a disadvantage in terms of road presence.

Touring equipment is present, but in its minimal version. A removable windshield of modest size, two lockable saddlebags. It’s enough for a weekend, but you quickly feel the limits when facing a real trip. The cockpit is understated, with a discreet digital display offering essential information. Harley has integrated modern features: 300 mm front disc brake, ABS, keyless start. The belt drive and five-speed gearbox are safe bets for the brand. At around 12,290 euros at its launch, its price positioned this machine as an economical alternative to traditional Touring models.

So, target audience? The Sportster SuperLow 1200T doesn’t seek to compete with baggers. It aims rather at the Harley rider already initiated, perhaps owner of a Sportster, who wants to explore touring without massive investment, or the novice attracted by the touring aesthetics but intimidated by the sizes and prices. Its essence remains Sportster: more lively, lighter, less comfortable in the very long term. An interesting compromise for some, a product too hybrid for others. In the context of the Harley-Davidson Sportster SuperLow 1200T test, it appears as a transition machine, an invitation to escape with a lower commitment, but which, with every kilometer, reminds you that it was not born for endless interstates.