The Harley-Davidson Sportster Iron was first introduced nine years ago and was a big play in Harley’s Dark Custom push. The main allure of the Iron was the all-black engine covers, but the downside for some was that it was only available with the 883cc motor, and not the 1,200cc. So people had a decision to make; get the Iron’s all-blacked-out engine or opt for the higher-displacement 1,200cc Nightster with the gray engine.

This mid-2018 release put an end to that dilemma, which serves up the Iron in 883cc form, as well as the new Iron 1200, which throws out a bit of a different styling from its 883 predecessor. Along with the 1200cc motor, the Iron 1200 offers “throwback” styling, which basically means the paint graphics on the tank are retro. Of course you could get the all-black engine covers as well as exhaust heat shields, and it comes with mini apes and a small quarter fairing. With a MSRP of $9,999 the Iron 1200 is only a thousand dollars more than the Iron 883

The 2018 Sportster Iron 1200 in Vivid Black is one sharp-looking ride.

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The tank graphics are meant to be a throwback design, and we’d say they totally nailed the retro feel.

Jon McDevitt

The all-black engine is finally available in the 1,200cc displacement after nine years of being available only in the 883cc.

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Another unique feature on the Iron 1200 is the mini-fairing meant to help block a bit of wind, but it’s mostly for added style.

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We are digging the diamond stitching pattern on the solo seat.

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A nice touch of design in the air cleaner cover with the stamped in bar and shield logo.

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Specifications

MSRP:	Starting at $9,999
Color Options:	Vivid Black, Twisted Cherry, Billiard White
Engine:	Air-cooled 1,200cc Evolution
Transmission:	5-speed
Bore x Stroke:	3.5 in. x 3.8 in
Displacement:	1,202cc (73.4ci)
Compression Ratio:	10.0:1
Fuel Capacity:	3.3 gal.
Ground Clearance:	5.5 in.
Seat Height, Unladen:	28.9 in.