Harley Davidson 1200 Custom

The Harley-Davidson 1200 Custom is part of the Sportster lineup and stands out with its distinctive design and performance. It features a 1200 CC air-cooled Evolution engine that produces 96 Newton meters of torque, making it powerful and responsive. The bike has a relaxed seating position with a pullback handlebar and forward-set pegs, and despite a higher seat height of 725 mm, it remains relatively low and accessible. The 17-liter fuel tank and longer wheelbase make it more suited for highway cruising compared to some other Sportster models. However, the suspension is somewhat rudimentary, leading to a firm ride on rough roads, and the absence of ABS is a significant oversight. The bikes classic look, complete with a fat front tire and ample chrome, is undeniably appealing, but potential buyers need to weigh these aesthetic and performance benefits against the practical considerations of comfort and safety.

The Harley-Davidson 1200 Custom is a cruiser that embodies the classic American motorcycle spirit, but it comes with its share of pros and cons. On the positive side, it boasts a powerful 1200 CC air-cooled Evolution engine that delivers a robust 96 Newton meters of torque, making it easy to get going and enjoyable to ride, especially in the 100-120 kmh range. The bikes design, with its fat front tire, ample chrome, and staggered twin exhaust, is undeniably eye-catching and retro-chic. However, the ride can be firm and crashy on less-than-perfect roads, which is a significant concern in Indias varied road conditions. The absence of ABS is a notable drawback, especially considering the strong brakes that require careful handling. Despite these issues, the 1200 Custom offers a relaxed seating position and a larger 17-liter fuel tank, making it more highway-worthy than some of its counterparts. Overall, its a bike that will appeal to those who value its classic look and performance but may not be the best choice for those prioritizing comfort and safety features.

The Harley-Davidson 1200 Custom has seen a price hike in the Indian market, with the dual-tone color versions now priced at Rs. 11.25 lakh (ex-showroom India). This increase does not bring any changes to the motorcycles mechanicals. I think this price adjustment reflects the ongoing market dynamics and the demand for premium cruisers.

Harley-Davidson India announced the launch of the 2020 Harley-Davidson 1200 Custom BS6, priced at Rs. 10.77 lakh for the single-tone color and Rs. 10.89 lakh for the dual-tone color (ex-showroom India). The bike retains its classic design and mechanical specifications while complying with the new BS6 emission norms. I believe this update is a welcome move for those looking for a blend of style and compliance.

The Harley-Davidson 1200 Custom received a minor update in 2019, with no significant changes to its engine or design. However, the bike continued to attract enthusiasts with its timeless appeal and robust performance. I think the lack of major updates was a strategic move to maintain the bikes classic charm.

In 2018, Harley-Davidson India introduced the 1200 Custom with a few cosmetic tweaks, including new color schemes and minor design adjustments. The bikes mechanical specifications remained unchanged, focusing on its established performance and comfort. I believe these subtle changes helped keep the model fresh without altering its core appeal.

The Harley-Davidson 1200 Custom was launched in India in 2017, marking a significant entry into the premium cruiser segment. Priced at around Rs. 9 lakh (ex-showroom), it offered a powerful 1200cc engine and classic Harley-Davidson styling. I think this launch was a bold move by Harley-Davidson to capture the Indian markets attention.

The Harley-Davidson 1200 Custom, when it was introduced in India, was priced around 10.5 lakhs ex-showroom. However, prices can vary based on the state and local taxes, bringing the on-road price to approximately 12-13 lakhs. This pricing places it in a premium segment, reflecting its build quality, powerful engine, and the brands prestige. While it may seem steep, the price is justified by the bikes unique design, robust performance, and the overall Harley-Davidson experience. For those willing to invest in a classic cruiser with a strong presence on the road, the 1200 Customs price might be worth considering, but its certainly not for the budget-conscious buyer.

The mileage of the Harley-Davidson 1200 Custom in India is not particularly impressive, with an average fuel efficiency of around 15-20 kml. This is typical for a cruiser with a large engine, and it reflects the trade-off between power and fuel economy. For those concerned about running costs, this bike might not be the most economical choice, especially considering the rising fuel prices. However, for enthusiasts who prioritize the riding experience and the unique character of a Harley-Davidson, the mileage might be a secondary concern.