2013 Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two Specifications

Custom / cruiser • Specs last verified 13 July 2026

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2013 Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two Overview

The 2013 Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two is a custom / cruiser motorcycle built around 1201.25 cc of displacement. Under the tank sits a V2, four-stroke engine running Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC) valve actuation, a compression ratio of 9.7:1. The bore and stroke measures 88.9 x 96.8 mm. 2013 Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two delivers 98.99 Nm @ 3500 of torque. The factory-quoted top speed stands at 45 km/h, making it a capable performer in its class. From a practical standpoint, the 2013 Sportster Seventy-Two tips the scales at 251.7 kg, carries a 7.95-litre fuel tank, offers a seat height of 676 mm and spans a 1,524 mm wheelbase. That's roughly 48.9 kg lighter than the average custom / cruiser motorcycle in our database. Scroll down for the complete 2013 Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two spec sheet covering every technical detail from suspension travel to tyre sizes.

2013 Sportster Seventy-Two - Pros & Cons

Strengths

  • Fuel injection: The fuel injection system delivers crisp throttle response and reliable cold starts regardless of altitude or temperature.
  • Accessible seat height: At 676 mm, the seat height is approachable for a wide range of rider heights and builds confidence in low-speed manoeuvring.
  • Low-maintenance final drive: Belt final drive means no chain to clean, lube or adjust - meaningfully less routine maintenance than a chain-driven equivalent.

Considerations

  • Modest fuel capacity: The 7.95-litre tank means more frequent fuel stops on longer rides, which is worth planning around on touring routes.

Wear Points & Servicing Notes

Fuelling & injector care

Fuelling comes from fuel injection. Systems like this are largely maintenance-free beyond keeping fuel quality decent and injectors clear - a fuel-system cleaner every service interval is cheap insurance.

Valve clearance checks

Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC) valve actuation on the Sportster Seventy-Two means clearances should be checked at the manufacturer's specified interval - they can tighten as mileage accumulates, and a light top-end tick is usually the first sign.

Brake disc and pad wear

The Single disc. Dual-piston front brake gives strong, progressive stopping power. Disc thickness and pad depth are worth checking at every tyre change, since worn pads can score the disc surface.

Suspension condition on used examples

Up front, the Sportster Seventy-Two runs Independent coil springs and hydraulic dampers and Independent coil springs and hydraulic dampers at the rear. On a used example, check fork seals for weeping oil and test the rear linkage for play - seals are a relatively cheap fix but useful when negotiating price.

Final drive maintenance

Final drive is by belt - lower maintenance than chain with no lubrication needed, but tension and tooth wear should still be checked at service intervals.

Handling the weight at a standstill

At 251.7 kg, the Sportster Seventy-Two is a substantial machine - low-speed manoeuvring in car parks takes more physical effort than on a lighter bike, though the weight disappears once rolling.

Sportster Seventy-Two - Buying & Maintenance Guide

What to check before buying

When inspecting a used 2013 Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two, start with the basics: check the service book for oil change frequency, inspect the chain and sprockets for wear, and look for oil seepage around the engine casings and rocker covers. A cold start test is invaluable - a well-maintained Sportster Seventy-Two should fire up cleanly and settle to a smooth idle within a few seconds.

Oil and filter changes

Regular oil changes are the single most important maintenance task on any Sportster Seventy-Two. Stick to the manufacturer's interval - typically every 6,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first. The sump holds 2.60 litres, so budget for that volume of quality motorcycle-specific engine oil. Always use the correct viscosity grade as specified in the owner's manual.

Fuel system care

The Sportster Seventy-Two's fuel injection system is durable but benefits from quality fuel and the occasional use of a fuel-system cleaner additive. If the bike has been stored for more than three months, drain and replace the fuel to prevent varnish deposits in the injectors.

Valve clearance service

Check that valve clearances have been adjusted at the correct intervals on any used Sportster Seventy-Two. A bike with clearances out of spec doesn't always feel obviously wrong - but tight clearances accelerate valve seat wear. Ask for service documentation proving it's been done.

2013 Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two - Frequently Asked Questions

What engine does the 2013 Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two have?
The 2013 Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two uses a V2, four-stroke engine with 1201.25 cc of displacement.
What is the top speed of the 2013 Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two?
The 2013 Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two has a factory-quoted top speed of 45 km/h. Real-world speeds vary depending on rider weight, conditions and state of tune.
How much does the 2013 Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two weigh?
The 2013 Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two weighs 251.7 kg. This is the manufacturer's wet figure.
How much power does the 2013 Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two make?
The 2013 Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two produces 98.99 Nm @ 3500 of torque.
What is the fuel tank capacity of the 2013 Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two?
The 2013 Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two has a 7.95-litre fuel tank. At around 5-6 litres per 100 km, that is roughly 132-159 km between stops.
Is the 2013 Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two suitable for shorter riders?
The 2013 Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two has a seat height of 676 mm. This is a comfortable, accessible height for most riders.
What brakes does the 2013 Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two have?
The 2013 Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two uses Single disc. Dual-piston at the front and Single disc. Single-piston at the rear.
What tyre sizes does the 2013 Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two use?
The 2013 Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two runs MH90-21 front and 150/80-B16 rear tyres. A good selection of sport, touring and all-weather rubber is available in these sizes.
How much oil does the 2013 Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two take?
The 2013 Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two takes 2.60 litres of engine oil at a full oil and filter change. Always verify against the dipstick or sight glass after filling.

Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two Spec Evolution

The Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two was produced across 4 model years (2013-2016). The table below highlights the key specifications that changed across the production run - useful whether you are comparing years or tracking down a specific variant.

Specification 2013 2014 2015 2016
Wet Weight 251.7 kg / 555.0 lbs 251.7 kg / 555.0 lbs 251.7 kg / 555.0 lbs 257.0 kg / 566.6 lbs
Dry Weight 247.2 kg / 545.0 lbs 247.2 kg / 545.0 lbs 247.2 kg / 545.0 lbs 251 kg / 553.4 lbs
Engine Detail Air-cooled, Evolution® Air-cooled, Evolution® Air-cooled, Evolution® Evolution® engine, rubber-mounted. Aluminum heads and cylinders.
Seat Height 676 mm / 26.6 in. 676 mm / 26.6 in. 676 mm / 26.6 in. 730 mm / 28.7 in.
Fuel Capacity 7.95 litres / 2.10 gallons 7.95 litres / 2.10 gallons 7.95 litres / 2.10 gallons 7.90 litres / 2.09 gallons
CO2 113.7 CO 113.7 CO 113.7 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission) 113.7 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Ground Clearance (in.) 4.7 inches 4.7 inches 4.7 inches 5.1 inches
Ground Clearance (mm) 119 mm 119 mm 119 mm 130 mm

Key Specifications

Engine

V2, four-stroke

Power

Not published by manufacturer

Torque

98.99 Nm (10.1 kgf-m or 73.0 ft.lbs) @ 3500

Top Speed

45.0 km/h / 28.0 mph

Weight

251.7 kg / 555.0 lbs

Fuel Capacity

7.95 litres / 2.10 gallons

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Full 2013 Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two Specifications

Comments North America security system includes immobilizer; outside North America the security system includes immobilizer and siren.
Colours Hard Candy Lucky Green Flake, Hard Candy Coloma Gold Flake, Hard Candy Big Red Flake, Chrome Yellow Pearl, Big Blue Pearl, Black Denim.
Ground Clearance (mm) 119 mm
Ground Clearance (in.) 4.7 inches
Seat Height 676 mm / 26.6 in.
Wheelbase 1,524 mm / 60.0 in.
Height 1,400 mm / 55.1 in.
Length 2,271 mm / 89.4 in.
Width 1,600 mm / 63.0 in.
Oil Capacity (Quarts) 0.17 quarts
Oil Capacity (l) 2.60 litres
Dry Weight 247.2 kg / 545.0 lbs
Fuel Capacity 7.95 litres / 2.10 gallons
Wet Weight 251.7 kg / 555.0 lbs
Top Speed 45.0 km/h / 28.0 mph
Max Torque 98.99 Nm (10.1 kgf-m or 73.0 ft.lbs) @ 3500
Fuel Control Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
Engine Type V2, four-stroke
Displacement (ci) 73.30 cubic inches
Displacement (cc) 1201.25 cc
Bore x Stroke (in,) 3.5 x 3.8 inches
Bore x Stroke (mm) 88.9 x 96.8 mm
CO2 113.7 CO
Engine Detail Air-cooled, Evolution®
Fuel System Injection. Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Compression Ratio 9.7:1
Engine Lubrication Dry sump
Exhaust Chrome, staggered exhaust with slash-cut mufflers
Fuel Consumption 4.90 litres/100 km (20.4 km/l or 48.00 mpg)
Starter Electric
Valve System 4
Clutch Multi-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath
Final Drive Belt
Gearbox 6-speed
Primary Drive Primary chain, 57/38 ratio
Suspension - Front Independent coil springs and hydraulic dampers
Suspension - Rear Independent coil springs and hydraulic dampers
Rake 30.1°
Trail 135 mm / 5.3 in.
Instrumentation Handlebar-mounted electronic speedometer with odometer, time-of-day clock, dual tripmeter, low fuel warning light, low oil pressure light, engine diagnostics readout, LED indicator lights
Lighting system High beam, neutral, low oil pressure, turn signals, engine diagnostics, low fuel warning, low battery, security system (optional)
Brakes - Front Single disc. Dual-piston
Brakes - Rear Single disc. Single-piston
Rims Chrome Steel Laced
Tyres - Front MH90-21
Tyres - Rear 150/80-B16

Specifications are compiled from manufacturer documentation and cross-referenced technical sources, and corrected on an ongoing basis. Spot an error? Let us know.

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Harley-Davidson Sportster Seventy-Two - other years