The 2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T is a more muscular, touring-oriented version of the SuperLow 883, with a pair of lockable saddlebags, a removable Switchback-style windshield, a more comfortable seat, as well as available antitheft alarm and keyless start. It revives an idea dropped more than 50 years ago: building a Sportster for light touring.

The clean looks of the 2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T will appeal to travel enthusiasts and devil-may-care riders alike. Dressed in Vivid Black, Candy Orange, or a Birch White/Midnight Pearl combination, it definitely captures attention and the imagination. A number of chrome accents add contrast while making this bike look more expensive than it really is.


Revised ergonomics shape the 2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T
Derived from the XL 1200 Custom, the new 2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T is a traditional cruiser with a wide handlebar that puts the rider's hands close to his or her chest, and a large 17L fuel tank that provides fairly decent wind protection.

The foot pegs are wider and 7cm farther up front than those on the SuperLow 883 (but not as far as on the XL 1200 Custom), ensuring good footing and keeping the legs relaxed. Meanwhile, the low seat height (702 mm) means all riders can easily put both feet on the ground at idle. Furthermore, the 2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T is 75kg lighter than a Road King to help inexperienced riders through low-speed manoeuvres, especially with a passenger and luggage on board.

Derived from the XL 1200 Custom, the new 2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T is a traditional cruiser. (Photo: France Ouellet)

Plenty of power for the 2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T
The 1,202cc OHV engine that powers the 2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T comes alive with a syncopated shake and typical Harley rumble that's a bit muffled by the stock exhaust. Changing gears produces a crisp sound in true American fashion, while the friendly clutch lever makes the operation easy.

Around town or on the highway, the V-twin is flexible enough to accelerate from low revs without screaming and easily push the touring bike up to the electronic rev limiter. It even plays along when you want to have fun on small, winding roads. The 2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T also achieves a surprising mix of agility and stability ― the sparks from the foot pegs will tell you when you've reached the limit in corners.

As expected, the upright windshield does a great job under 100 km/h, but taller riders will feel some turbulence around the head beyond that. Regardless, riding the 2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T over long distances is always a treat when mastered.

The 1,202cc OHV engine that powers the 2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T comes alive with a syncopated shake and typical Harley rumble that's a bit muffled by the stock exhaust. (Photo: France Ouellet)

ABS is key with the 2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T
A single 292mm front disc with dual-piston calliper combines with a 260mm rear disc to stop the 2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T in a satisfyingly short time. ABS proves fairly transparent and effective, which is very important on a touring motorcycle since you must sometimes ride under the rain and/or in unfamiliar surroundings.

Slammed cruisers often feel dry and harsh, but the 2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T has easily accessible preload settings so you can adjust the firmness of the suspension for solo or two-up riding. The better sculpted, more generously padded seat partly makes up for the lack of wheel travel.

A single 292mm front disc with dual-piston calliper combines with a 260mm rear disc to stop the 2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T in a satisfyingly short time. (Photo: France Ouellet)

Summing up the 2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T
Harley-Davidson has packed many big touring features into a small, lightweight, and easy-handling machine. And at $14,499, the 2014 Harley-Davidson SuperLow 1200T is a great way to travel in style without having to mortgage the house.

Pros

• Engine is perfectly suited to this type of bike
• Improved comfort all around
• Designed for small riders

Cons

• Turbulence around the head beyond 100 km/h
• Designed for small riders