2012 Harley-Davidson Sportster, Touring and Trike – First Look Review

Harley-Davidson has begun delivery of all 15 models in the 2012 Touring, Trike and Sportster lines to its U.S. dealers. These motorcycles will be available for sale immediately. Additional 2012 models will be announced in July.

2012 Harley-Davidson XL1200
2012 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom

The six 2012 Harley-Davidson Sportster models range from the affordable Dark Custom roadster posture of the Iron 883 to the track-inspired performance of the XR1200X. Back for its first full year of production is the Sportster 1200 Custom, the motorcycle that introduced the web-based H-D1 Bike Builder factory customization process. All 2012 Sportster models will have exclusive Michelin Scorcher tires. Fifteen Sportster paint options include seven new color choices for 2012. Side covers will be finished in either gloss black or denim black to match other bodywork. The Forty-Eight model will have a new tank graphic.

2012 Harley-Davidson FLHTK
2012 Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Ultra Limited

The eight 2012 Harley-Davidson Touring models are powered by the Twin Cam 103 engine with Automatic Compression Release and an integrated oil cooler, generating a claimed 102 lb-ft of torque. All Touring models also feature the 6-Speed Cruise Drive transmission, air-adjustable rear shocks and an Isolated Drive System for smooth power delivery. The single-spar, rigid backbone frame and two-piece swingarm is strong and responsive. All Touring models except the Ultra Limited will offer a new “tubeless” Chrome Lace Aluminum Wheel option. Six new colors or color combinations are among the 12 paint options offered.

2012 Harley-Davidson FLHTCU
2012 Harley-Davidson Tri Glide Ultra Classic

The 2012 Harley-Davidson Tri Glide Ultra Classic brings original-equipment design, quality and service to the trike segment, with chassis structure and geometry engineered to handle the steering forces and weight of a three-wheel vehicle. With a deluxe Tour-Pak carrier and integrated trunk, a four-speaker/ 80-watt Harman/Kardon Advanced Audio System, electronic cruise control and electric reverse drive, the Tri Glide Ultra Classic is well-equipped for touring and available in three color combinations: Vivid Black; Big Blue Pearl / Vivid Black; or Ember Red Sunglo / Merlot Sunglo.

 

3 COMMENTS

  1. About five years ago, I was contipladeing on buying a ultr glide, this was going to be my retiering trip. I had planed to go tp Fairbanks Alaska, doing the upper states to complit my fifty states, and the third region of canada, when I took ill, and became wheel chair dependent.
    tho I have recoverd some mobility to my hands, the doctors say there is no hope for my legss. Whwn I saw the lates HD, I could only dream.

  2. Hi, More of a query than a comment. I’m just 5′ 5″ with just a 29″ leg and a reach of 25″. Now i am new to riding but would really like to purchase and ride a Harley. Being 50 yrs young i’m not after a sporty number,more something to cruise on. Could you recommend a Harley Model to suit ? Would really appreciate your advice.

    Many thanks

    Danny

    • Harley-Davidson specializes in cruisers with low, low seat heights. Just about anything in the Sportster line would be a good bike to start out on, though personally I would opt for a model with the most cornering clearance. —Ed

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