Introduction

The XR1200 is Harley-Davidson's new 'hot rod' standard motorcycle. Developed for Europe and first launched in European markets in April 2008, the XR1200 is now available stateside. Inspired by the XR-750—the American dirt track racing motorcycle that dominates AMA flat-track competition—the new XR1200 features design elements that provide up-to-date street handling and performance along with the classic look, sound and feel that Harley-Davidson fans have come to expect.

I had a chance to take a ride on the new 2009 Harley-Davidson XR1200 Sportster, so I jumped at the opportunity to ride this modern take on an American classic.

It's been a while since I've ridden a Sportster—I've been riding mostly sportbikes and sport-tourers lately, so I wasn't quite sure what to expect. I have to admit I was pleasantly surprised by the power, handling, appearance and overall quality of the XR1200.

Appearance

Whether you like the looks or not, the 2009 Harley-Davidson XR1200 Sportster is an amazing attention-getter. All along our ride people stopped to ask about the bike and other motorcyclists did quick U-turns to check out the bike and ask questions while we were shooting photos.

Fair warning: this bike isn't subtle, so you aren't very stealthy while tooling around town. You might want to keep that in mind before you do anything 'unexpected' with the XR1200.