Adrenaline Machine: 2020 XL 1200 Roadster
Harley-Davidson's latest Roadster is an XL 1200 torque machine with a fastback style.
Performance Package
The Roadster XL 1200CX is the sportiest Sportster in Harley-Davidson's 2020 lineup. As a factory-optioned performance package, it is loaded with the most torque of any Sportster, an inverted front fork, dual-disc front brakes, and adjustable rear suspension. With race-proven heritage, the Motor Company is inviting riders to turn one loose at the nearest green light.
Roadster Changes
Inspired by the legendary XR-750 dirt track racer, the Roadster was introduced to the Sportster line-up in 2002. It was reissued as the XL 1200R in 2004, complete with a new frame and rubber-mounted engine. In 2009, the Roadster took a five-year domestic hiatus and was only available internationally. Reappearing in 2016 as the redesigned XL 1200CX, the Roadster has remained virtually unchanged for 2020.
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Enduring Unit
The 1200cc Evolution engine is the Roadster's best asset, but also its Achilles heel. The Sportster's 'unit' engine was first introduced with the 1952 K Model, as a side-valve 750cc Flathead. The basic design is still in use today. In 1986, the Evolution engine replaced the Ironhead overhead-valve version that had been in use since 1957. The enduring motor is now facing its possible demise due to tightening European emissions standards.
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Stylish Torque
The 2020 Roadster breathes through a set of dual chrome exhaust with stylish slotted black heat shields. Even in its stock form, moto-journalists have extolled the Roadster's “boatload of torque.” Unlike almost any other engine in production today, the Evolution uses one gear-driven cam per overhead valve. While antiquated, the configuration easily accepts high-output cams, and performance modifications are within the reach of most owners.
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Bump Stop
All Roadsters have dual-disc front brakes with floating rotors for more than ample stopping power. Front and rear dual-piston Brembos are located on Black Offset five-spoke cast aluminum rims. While the high-performance brake system is standard, ABS is an option at $795. Complementing the brake package and soaking up the bumps is a 43mm inverted fork with cartridge damping.
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Race Motif
Performance Orange makes a reappearance for 2020. Also called Race Orange, the color has been absent since the early-2000s, and is a direct homage to Harley-Davidson's dirt track racing glory. The checkered flag motif on the gas tank is also a throwback to the early Roadster. Other color options include Stone Washed White Pearl, a gray-ish Black Denim, and the standard, Vivid Black.
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Adrenaline Options
Custom options abound for the 2020 Roadster. According to Ben McGinley, Harley-Davidson's Senior Industrial Designer, the Roadster is an urban-minded machine that takes cues from early performance models and brings them into the present. Already brutish looking, adrenaline-inducing style options for the XL 1200CX include a color-matched Café Tail Section, Screamin’ Eagle Street Cannon Slip-On Mufflers and drag bars for an aggressive look and riding stance.
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Mashup Machine
Styling aside, the new 2020 Roadster is one the best handling Sportsters to date. Brad Richards, Harley-Davidson Director of Styling, spoke about the relaunched XL 1200CX in 2016. He said, “The Roadster is a mash-up of styling genres, but the intent was to build a rider’s motorcycle, a Sportster that’s lean and powerful and connects the rider to the road.”
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