I am getting into cycling after a 30 year layoff. Back when I was into cycling before (my Honda days) a "roll bar" was a popular accessory. This gave a nice "feet up" position for the open road and protected the bike if it went down. Are these practical for an XL1200T or am I dating myself as a 1980s guy?

 

You can find them listed in the Harley Parts & Accessories Catalog or from several aftermarket companies.
They are commonly called "Crash Bars", but the correct technical name, probably for liability reasons, is "Engine Guard".

You'll find half of the Sporty owners either hate, or don't like the looks of them, and the other half that likes them. Basically, there's the form over function group vs. the function over form side.

I have the HD guard on mine. (below)

 

They are widely available in a variety of styles and brands. I have conventional round H-D ones on my 883 SuperLow, which with its windshield and bags looks remarkably like a 1200T. Browse the H-D website, under the 'Shop' tab. You can also get forward footrests, if you want somewhere to stretch out, all coool like!

 

Thanks grbrown. Ordered a setup like that; goes on the bike Friday.