2008 Harley-Davidson Sportster
Only 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1985 | 1 |
| 1988 | 2 |
| 1992 | 1 |
| 1996 | 6 |
| 1997 | 1 |
| 1998 | 6 |
| 1999 | 6 |
| 2000 | 9 |
| 2001 | 6 |
| 2002 | 6 |
| 2003 | 8 |
| 2005 | 4 |
| 2007 | 1 |
| 2008 | 2 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 2 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
1 of 2 total reports mentions: wheels.
Show complaint excerpts
2008 HARLEY-DAVIDSON XL1200C MOTORCYCLE REAR WHEEL BEARING FAILED WHILE RIDING RESULTING IN EXTENSIVE REAR WHEEL DAMAGE AND A NEAR-ACCIDENT. RIDER WAS ABLE TO MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE MOTORCYCLE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20110603
1 of 2 total reports mentions: steering.
Show complaint excerpts
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 HARLEY DAVIDSON SPORTSTER MOTORCYCLE. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 40 MPH WHEN A NOISE EMITTED FROM THE FRONT FENDER. THE CONTACT NOTICED THE STEERING COLUMN HAD STRUCK THE FRAME OF THE VEHICLE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20110909
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2008 Harley-Davidson Sportster — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for wheels issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for steering issues (1 reports on file for this year).
FAQ
Is the 2008 Harley-Davidson Sportster reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2008 Harley-Davidson Sportster?
The most-reported component is wheels, accounting for 50% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2008 Harley-Davidson Sportster have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.