Harley-Davidson XL 1200 T Superlow 2020 — Specifications

What if your American road trip dream started with a Sportster rather than a Touring behemoth? The Harley-Davidson XL 1200 T Superlow, particularly in its 2015 version, poses this question with a certain audacity. One rarely imagines a Sportster equipped with a windscreen and saddlebags, but that is precisely the gamble of this model. With a seat height of only 705 mm, it first appeals to those seeking accessibility, perhaps beginners or riders of modest stature, but also to any globetrotter wanting a lighter and more maneuverable vehicle for adventure.

Its engine, a 1202 cc V-twin, delivers 68 horsepower and a torque of 96 Nm from 3500 rpm. This is where the choice of the 1200 over the 883 makes all the sense. To tow saddlebags and tackle long roads, this extra power is necessary, even if it remains modest compared to the large Twin Cam blocks of the Touring range. The motorcycle weighs 274 kg fully fueled, a reasonable weight that makes it less intimidating than a Road King, but you must accept that performance will be relaxed, with a top speed of around 160 km/h. Belt drive and a five-speed transmission are typical of the Harley universe, offering that supple and characteristic propulsion feel.

Braking, with a 300 mm disc at the front and a 260 mm disc at the rear, is assisted by standard ABS, a significant point for a touring vehicle. The suspensions have been revised on versions like the Harley-Davidson XL 1200 T Superlow 2015, with an adjustable fork and adjustable rear shocks, improving comfort somewhat without radically transforming the handling, often basic on Sportsters. The 17-liter tank requires regular stops, but that is the price of a compact silhouette.

Ultimately, this machine is a compromise. It does not rival the specialists in touring for stability or comfort, but it offers a less expensive and lighter entry into the world of Harley road trips. For 12790 euros, it will appeal to those who want the Touring aesthetics and spirit without the size and investment of an Electra Glide. It is a transition motorcycle, ideal for a novice eager to travel or for an enthusiast seeking a second machine dedicated to carefree getaways. It gets the job done without excessive showiness, but don’t expect the versatility or performance of a European competitor.