1988 Harley Davidson Sportster 1200 Manual

The 1988 Harley Davidson Sportster 1200 is a classic American motorcycle featuring a 1200cc Evolution V-twin engine, 4-speed transmission, belt final drive, and iconic cruiser styling. This manual covers maintenance procedures, specifications, troubleshooting, and operational guidelines for proper care and operation of your Sportster 1200. Below are key sections for safety, features, maintenance, specifications, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Maintenance Schedule 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Basic Maintenance Procedures 7. Troubleshooting 8. Storage Guidelines 9. Warranty Information 10. Contact Information

Features at a Glance

Key components: Evolution 1200cc V-twin engine, 4-speed transmission, belt drive system, front and rear suspension, braking system, electrical system.

FeatureDescription
Engine1200cc Evolution V-twin, air-cooled
Transmission4-speed constant mesh
Final DriveBelt drive system
FrameSteel tubular frame
SuspensionFront telescopic fork, rear dual shocks
BrakesSingle disc front, drum rear
Fuel SystemCarburetor with manual choke
IgnitionElectronic ignition system
WeightApproximately 495 lbs (wet)
Seat Height27.5 inches

Safety Information

Always wear proper protective gear and follow safety guidelines.

  1. Wear DOT-approved helmet, eye protection, gloves, and protective clothing.
  2. Perform pre-ride inspection: tires, brakes, lights, controls, fluid levels.
  3. Never operate under influence of alcohol or drugs.
  4. Follow all traffic laws and ride defensively.

WARNING! Motorcycles are inherently dangerous; proper training and caution are essential. Always inspect your motorcycle before riding.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Daily: Check tire pressure, fuel level, brake operation, lights.
  2. Every 500 miles: Check chain/belt tension, lubricate if needed.
  3. Every 2,500 miles: Change engine oil and filter.
  4. Every 5,000 miles: Inspect brakes, check battery, adjust clutch.
  5. Every 10,000 miles: Replace spark plugs, check valve clearance.

CAUTION! Use only Harley Davidson approved parts and fluids. Follow torque specifications precisely.

Specifications

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with all controls before riding.

Left Handlebar: Clutch lever, turn signals, horn, high/low beam switch.

Right Handlebar: Front brake lever, throttle, engine kill switch, starter button.

Foot Controls: Gear shift lever (left), rear brake pedal (right).

Instrument Cluster: Speedometer, odometer, neutral indicator, high beam indicator, turn signal indicators.

Starting Procedure: Turn ignition on, ensure in neutral, pull choke (cold starts), press starter button.

Basic Maintenance Procedures

Essential maintenance tasks for proper motorcycle care.

  1. Oil Change: Warm engine, drain oil, replace filter, refill with 20W50 motorcycle oil.
  2. Tire Pressure: Check cold - front 30 psi, rear 36 psi (rider only).
  3. Chain/Belt Adjustment: Maintain 1/2" to 3/4" free play.
  4. Brake Inspection: Check pad wear, fluid level, lever/pedal operation.
  5. Battery Maintenance: Check terminals, clean corrosion, maintain fluid level.

Tip: Keep service records and follow maintenance schedule strictly.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startBattery, fuel, sparkCheck battery charge, fuel level, spark plugs, kill switch position
Poor performanceCarburetor, air filterClean carburetor, replace air filter, check ignition timing
Oil leakageGaskets, sealsInspect and replace faulty gaskets or seals
Brake issuesPads, fluid, cablesCheck pad wear, fluid level, cable adjustment
Electrical problemsBattery, connectionsTest battery, check all electrical connections

Emergency: Always carry basic tools and know how to perform roadside repairs.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents damage during extended non-use.

  1. Clean motorcycle thoroughly
  2. Change oil and filter
  3. Fill fuel tank and add fuel stabilizer
  4. Remove battery and store on tender
  5. Inflate tires to proper pressure
  6. Cover with breathable motorcycle cover

CAUTION! Store in dry, temperature-stable environment. Avoid direct sunlight on tires.

Warranty Information

Original 1988 Harley Davidson warranty: 12 months unlimited mileage. Limited warranty on parts and workmanship. Does not cover normal wear, improper maintenance, or accidents. Keep all service records for warranty validation.

Contact Information

For technical support, parts, or service inquiries:

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