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Leading the three-model Sportster series, the 1998 Harley-Davidson XL-1200C Sportster Custom featured exclusive anniversary styling. Check out additional photos of this iconic motorcycle.Similar to other 1998 Harley models, the XL-1200C Sportster offered special 95th anniversary paint and trim options to commemorate the brand's milestone.
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The Sportster's V-twin engine saw minimal changes until 1986, when it was upgraded with aluminum heads, cylinders, and hydraulic lifters. These enhancements earned it the "Evolution" designation, aligning it with the Big Twin models.
Initially available in 883-cc and 1100-cc configurations (the former matching the displacement of the original 1957 Sportster), the larger engine expanded to 1200 cc in 1988, equivalent to the 74 cubic inches of the pre-1978 overhead-valve Big Twins.
By 1998, the Sportster lineup featured standard models as well as Sport and Custom variants, with the Custom boasting a 16-inch slotted cast rear wheel and a 21-inch spoked front wheel.
As seen on this 1998 Harley-Davidson XL-1200C Sportster, the Custom model replaced the classic "eyebrow" headlight cover with a sleek chrome "bucket" headlight design.
Exclusively offered in a 1200-cc configuration for 1998 (an 883-cc version would follow later), the Sportster Custom was one of the models eligible for Harley-Davidson's special 95th anniversary trim package that year.
Like all other anniversary editions, it has since gained significant value as a sought-after collector's item.
Continue to the next page to explore additional images of the 1998 Harley-Davidson XL-1200C Sportster motorcycle.
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1998 Harley-Davidson XL-1200C Sportster Pictures
As Harley's lighter-weight series, the Sportster remains highly coveted, particularly when adorned in the exclusive 95th-anniversary trim.In 1998, the Harley-Davidson XL-1200C Sportster series featured a custom variant available with a special 95th-anniversary trim. Limited to just 3,000 units, these models have become highly prized by collectors.
In 1986, the V-twin engine was upgraded with aluminum heads and cylinders, marking its transition to the Evolution series.
The tank emblem tells the story: the Sportster's heritage dates back to 1957.
Only 3,000 XL Customs feature this engraved plaque, with this particular bike being number 1,409 out of the limited run.
The anniversary emblem was elegantly embroidered onto the optional passenger backrest.Explore more fantastic motorcycle articles and images by visiting:
- Classic Motorcycles
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- Harley-Davidson Motorcycles
