DAYTONA BEACH, Fla.
Size (and weight) matters.
It really does. Especially if you’re in the market for a touring motorcycle.
For many riders who haven’t been genetically blessed with long limbs or Thor/Wonder Woman-like strength, getting on two wheels to take you long distances can be limiting.
Province columnist Alexandra Straub riding the new SuperLow 1200T just outside of Daytona Beach, Florida.
Photo: Riles and Nelson,
You want something that isn’t so heavy that it makes you nervous during low-speed riding, but something planted enough not to be shaken by the elements while on the open road.
For 2014, Harley-Davidson brings to life the SuperLow 1200T (T meaning Touring) to give those who are in the market to go places but without all the extra weight.
“This bike was really about the customer that was inspired by our touring bikes,” says Jennifer Gersch, Harley-Davidson product planning manager-SuperLow 1200T.
She adds that it’s for the customer who would, “Look at the Heritage Softail, and look at the Switchback, and say I want that, but it’s too big.”
Their solution? A bike that delivers the touring amenities riders are looking for but still keeps the Harley-Davidson style and heritage.
Enter the all-new SuperLow 1200T.
“We looked at the Sportster family and said, which chassis should we start with?” Gersch says.
The SuperLow 1200T has a seat height of 26.1 inches and 272 kg (599 lbs.)
Photo: Riles and Nelson,
By using the SuperLow chassis in the Sportster family, the team was able to make the bike 118 pounds sprightlier than the Harley’s lightest Big Twin touring motorcycle, making it much more approachable for those who wanted a more svelte touring bike — particularly when it comes to low-speed manoeuvrability. After a long days’ journey, the last thing you want to have to worry about is that heavy mass underneath you and making sure it doesn’t end up on the ground.
Furthermore, this specific chassis was chosen because of its tight rake angle and a lightweight cast aluminum front wheel. It also has three more degrees of turning radius and a low centre of gravity.
In comparison to the non “T” model, this Sportster has had some suspension tuning done. The changes were made because the bike was designed to accommodate a touring payload, as well as two passengers.
The result, I found, was a much more favourable setup. Having ridden the SuperLow model a couple of seasons ago, I found that its stiff suspension wasn’t my cup of tea. Granted, road imperfections are still felt, but not nearly as drastically as I had previously experienced.
Along the lines of touring features, the 1200T comes standard with what a lot of people would normally accessorize their bikes with if they are primarily used for long hauls.
Province columnist Alexandra Straub riding the new SuperLow 1200T just outside of Daytona Beach, Florida.
Photo: Riles and Nelson,
Locking saddlebags, a detachable 14-inch polycarbonate windshield, mini footboards (yes, they’re both cute and functional) and more are part of the package.
Dimensionally, the 1200T has a seat height of 26.1 inches and tips the scale with a ready to ride weight of 272 kilograms (599 pounds).
Additionally, it has a 17L fuel capacity.
Powering this Sportster is the familiar Evolution 1200 V-Twin (1,202 cc), which comes with a five-speed transmission. Here’s a fun Harley-Davidson factoid: It’s the first time the Evolution engine has been married to a SuperLow chassis.
Now that we’ve addressed function, let’s talk about style.
To give it its own styling flavour, the 1200T comes with machine-highlighted black and silver wheels, and of course, chrome, chrome, chrome. A Harley without chrome is like going to the movie theatre and not ordering popcorn with extra butter. It’s just wrong.
There’s a chrome speedometer, headlight brow, a black and chrome air cleaner insert cover and more.
Furthermore, the lights were moved down on the chrome front forks to give the bike a beefier look.
How does it ride?
As mentioned, the suspension is much more forgiving than I remember, creating a suitable riding environment.
Thank goodness for the windshield because it helps keep my body from completely freezing on a test ride in and around Daytona Beach, Fla.
Contrary to popular belief, it’s not always bright and hot in the Sunshine State.
Power delivery, as usual, is linear and easy to work with.
The 71 lb-ft. of torque seemed adequate for a solo rider along with a few personal items.
After a day of riding, my body still felt good (aside from the bitter cold).
General ergonomics of the 1200T worked well with my physique
— after all, the bike was designed to allow an ideal triangulation for individuals between the heights of 5-foot-1 and 5-foot-7.
I’d certainly embrace another chance to take this new model for an even longer test ride, even if Mother Nature isn’t co-operating.
The 2014 Sportster SuperLow 1200T has a starting MSRP of $14,499.
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