In 1903, some enthusiastic people started making bikes in a backyard shop. Their first vehicle got an engine that had 2 hp. It couldn't climb a hill without pedaling. By 1920, this group of guys had become Harley-Davidson, the biggest motorcycle manufacturer in the world with dealers in 67 countries.
It was their "Wrecking Crew" racing team that propelled the brand to the top. Many years later, the engine sound is still a signature sign of the brand. The company even has its own University.
The Harley-Davidson Sportster is a motorcycle line that has been in production since 1957. These motorcycles are known for their narrow profile that allows them to ride through urban environments. The bike can easily handle lane splitting. Besides, it has the ability to pull ahead of other bikes when the traffic lights are turning green. Here are 15 things you didn't know about the 2019 Harley-Davidson Iron 1200.
15 1,202cc Fuel-Injected V-Twin Engine
The 2019 Harley-Davidson Iron 1200 is an exciting and iconic bike. It got the powerful 1,202cc air-cooled, fuel-injected V-twin engine and classic styling. It produces a total of 96 Nm of torque, which is 24.6 Nm more than the Iron 883. The bike offers more power for more rowdy fun.
14 Mini Ape Handle Bar
The 1 inch Mini Ape handlebar adds to the feeling of the garage-built bike. It offers 32-inch spread, 8.75-inch rise and 6.5-inch pullback that "opens the rider triangle with a fist-in-the-wind posture." The Café Solo Seat holds the rider in position when the torque kicks in.
13 Classic 3.3-Gallon Fuel Tank
If you're a fan of Sportsters, you will easily recognize the classic 3.3-gallon fuel tank with multi-colored graphics. The dark finish highlights the bright stripes. There are 3 color options for the fuel tank: Vivid Black, Twisted Cherry, and Billiard White. All 3 colors contrast with the black speed screen.
12 Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection
The electronic sequential port fuel injection system offers fast response time when you make a quick change. For other systems, it will be necessary for the engine to complete a revolution before the fuel to air ratio can be changed. This type of injection provides better fuel economy and produces lower emissions.
11 Security System
The security system monitors vehicle motion with adjustable sensitivity. It can detect disturbances and provide a warning. The system can be armed and disarmed with a remote key fob with a rolling code technology. Major disturbances start a loud and unbroken 30-second alarm, after which the system returns to monitoring.
10 H-D Anti-Lock Braking System
The anti-lock brake system prevents the wheels from locking during braking situations. The ABS gets information from wheel speed sensors and tries to maintain traction control. It helps to decrease stopping distances and maintain bike stability on wet surfaces. The H-D ABS is made by the brand based on the bike's size and weight.
9 Just Leave It In 3rd Gear
When you're out for something fun, just leave the bike in 3rd gear. If you want to feel raw power, you should rev it until 4 valves start vibrating on the cylinder head. However, you will burn the fuel without making much progress. The Iron 1200 is more enjoyable on long stretches.
8 Can Go Around Corners
The myth that Harleys can't go around corners is a thing of the past. The 2019 Harley-Davidson Iron 1200 feels very swift. The company changed the engine setup but didn't update the chassis, brakes or suspension. As they say, with these changes the price would go through the roof and they didn't want that.
7 5-Speed Gearbox
The engine is connected to the 5-speed gearbox that came from the 883 model. However, it features different gear ratios. With this bike, you can ride the mountain of torque it delivers through the corners. Of course, you can catapult out of the corners as well, the Iron 1200 is happy to oblige.
6 Only Basic Electronics
Fantastic handling matches the fun and power. Purists will love the fact that this model doesn't have any modern electronic systems except ABS and Traction Control. And the cluster has been reduced to necessities, giving you the most important information. Overall, the Iron 1200 is as much a highway cruiser as it's a city bike.
5 Be Gentle With The Throttle
The brakes and suspension are the same as in the 883, which are dual-piston calipers front and rear with a single disc. It means that you need to adjust your riding style and enjoy more foot-peg fun. Since there are no electronic controls to prevent wheels from slipping, you should be gentle with the throttle.
4 Reputation For Vibration
Harley-Davidson Sportsters have a reputation for vibration, but the Iron 1200 could turn it into an enjoyable experience. You should be connected to the bike and the machinery of it. Don't expect a finger-light clutch and smooth gear changes. Shifting is a mechanical affair and all the better for it.
3 Typical Sportster Riding Experience
The 2019 Harley-Davidson Iron 1200 offers a typical Sportster driving experience. Its slim fuel tank and the frame feel skinny between the legs. The right knee sits on the air filter. The engine is a torque fest that doesn't have any chugging. Everything about the bike screams old school, which appeals to Harley fans.
2 The Sweet Spot
The Iron 1200 feels the best at speeds between 80 and 100 km/hour. However, you can easily get to 160 km/hour and beyond. Handling manners are adjusted with a planted feel. The braking performance is perfect and the ABS keeps you safe. Still, you can scrape the pegs when going around at high speeds.
1 Yours For $10,449
The base price for the bike is $10 449. However, you can get a plethora of optional features. This includes Sportster Color-Matched Front Spoiler, Passenger Footpeg Mount Kit and Chrome Fuel Tank Trim Panel Kit. You can also get the Chrome Auxiliary Lighting Kit, Docking Hardware for Detachable Windshields and Electrical Accessory Adapter.