Motorcycle Consumer News tested the XR1200 in their March, 2009 issue. Here's some of their good comments: "...vastly more sporty in concept than any previous Sportster..., 22 HP more than the XL1200 Nightster tested in 2007, ...our best stop was an impressive 109.5', a 40% stiffer and 3.3 pound lighter swingarm, pulls strongly from 1,500 rpm and power continues strongly to redline (7,000) without tapering off, and we were very impressed with the bike's handling and suspension compliance."
And the bad: "finding neutral at a stop can take forever, 580 pounds fully fueled, we weren't fond of the optional anti-theft system, the footpegs place the rider's feet considerably rearward, and cornering clearance could be improved."
And they summed it up: "It stops shorter than any Buell we tested", and "it sticks like glue on fast sweepers so you can close on unsuspecting sportbikes", and "The XR1200 is a fun bike to ride on twisty roads, and in the hands of a fast rider will give a good account of itself in the company of other sportbikes."
Sounds like a Harley that I would actually like to own.
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