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1947
Board of Directors’ records mention discussion of a bike in the design stage called the “Deluxe Sport Model,” which was to have an “entirely new 61 cubic inch overhead valve V-Twin engine,” and was to be 150 to 200 pounds less than the Big Twins of the time.

1952
The K model is introduced, a 750cc side-valve, V-Twin driven model. The K model is the direct ancestor of the XL Sportster.

1957
The XL Sportster
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Packing plenty of power and just the right mix of chrome, the Sportster 1200 Custom stays true to its name. With a new lighter-weight chrome Slotted Disc Cast Aluminum rear wheel, chrome Laced Steel 21-inch front wheel with new fender, chrome engine highlights, chrome handlebar and headlight, and a polished fuel tank console, the 1200 Custom shimmers with style. Forward controls and a pull-back handlebar riser give the rider a cool-for-cruising position in the saddle.
The evolution of the Harley-Davidson ..read more
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