2012 Harley-Davidson Sportster range now available

Six models comprise the Harley-Davidson Sportster range for 2012, four of which are available locally.The range includes the accessible SuperLow™, the newly redesigned XL1200 Custom and the Dark Custom Roadsters like the Iron 883™ and Forty-Eight™. Engine and driveline components remain unchanged for 2012, but a number of detail, paint and graphic changes have been added.

After its local debut last year, the XL883L Super Low returns for 2012 with an even lower 648mm seat height. New black sidecovers and different paint/graphic options distinguish the 2012 models.

The Iron 883 returns with new black side covers matching the distinctive blacked-out engine components. Tank graphics are altered for 2012 and three different paint colours are offered: Big Blue Pearl; Ember Red Sunglo; and Black Denim.

The most interesting of the local Sportster offerings is arguably the XL1200C Custom. With its chunky front tyre and distinctive five-spoke cast aluminium wheels, the 1200C sits in between a regular Sportster and the retro-styled Forty Eight in appearance. Like the rest of the 2012 Sportster range, the 1200C featuresblack sidecovers, revised tank graphics and a variety of colours. The 1200C also features a classic-style Sportser "eyebrow" over the headlight, wider fork spacing, blacked-out engine components, and retuned front suspension. The Brilliant Silver Pearl is one of three solid colours available, in addition to an Ember Red/Merlot Sunlgo two-tone option.

The XL1200X Forty Eight returns for 2012, with a large but subtle'Forty Eight' script across the tank being the most obvious visual change. The bobbed front guard, wire-spoke wheels, blacked-out engine components and classic 'peanut' fuel tank remain. One of Harley's more popular offerings, the Forty Eight is sure to be a hit again in 2012.

Available colours and options are still to be confirmed. Pricing starts at $14,250 rideaway for the XL883L Super Low and XL883N Iron 883. The XL1200C Custom will retail for $17,995, with the XL1200X Forty Eight the preium Sportster offering for 2012 at $17,250. Confirm pricing and stock availability with your local Harley-Davidson dealer.

Available later this year will be the new Dyna® Switchback custom tourer, followed by the Road Glide® Custom, one of the four Touring models being introduced across Australia over the coming months.

Further details on all the new 2012 models will be released over the coming weeks.