Tasmanian Thrasher from Down Under

Packed Approach

If the Harley-Davidson Scrambler trend is reaching its apex, then Purpose Built Moto's latest build is a high watermark. The Australian outfit has a proven track record, replete with expert fabrication and innovative solutions. They confidently phrase their approach as “in your face design backed by real-world experience.” This sharp-looking 1998 XL1200S is indeed packed with dirt-worthy credentials.

Photos courtesy of Brandan Trudinger

Inspired Visit

The Scrambler was a customer-initiated project, inspired by a prior build slated for the documentary film Wide of the Mark. Tom Gilroy of Purpose Built Moto elaborated in a recent Bike EXIF article, “During the build process for the first Sportster, the customer visited the shop. He saw it on the bench and he told me I had to build him one.”

Scenery Bikes

Released in 2021, Wide of the Mark follows six riders who thrash their hand-built adventure bikes through Tasmania's rough terrain. Pipeburn praised the film's spirit with, “amongst the breath-taking scenery roars six bikes that weren’t exactly designed for the job. What could go wrong? Plenty, and it’s here that Wide Of The Mark succeeds where so many films of the genre fail.”

Hotter Setup

Purpose Built Moto returned from the Australian island state with a list of improvements for their next 'big dirt basher.' The shop chose a XL1200S or Sportster Sport for the new build. First released in 1996, the 1200S came with factory adjustable suspension, twin front discs, and a hotter cam. A dual spark plug per head setup was introduced in 1998.

Weight Result

Gilroy had a clear goal in mind with the Sport. He stated, “I wanted to push a little further in terms of the design on this one, creating a distinctive motocross feel across the whole build.” Weight was a key factor in getting the Milwaukee-Scrambler to perform as good as it looks, with the end result tipping the scales at just under 450 pounds.

Fine Setup

Off road adventures demand good suspension. In an all-business move, Purpose Built Moto fitted a mid-2000s KTM 1190 Adventure frontend, paired with a Haan hub and a 19'' Excel rim. The rear received a set of Öhlins piggyback shocks bolted to a Trac Dynamics swingarm that houses a 17'' wheel. Local Gold Coast company Costanzo Racing fine-tuned the new setup.

Intake Differences

Outback-mulching power was kept relatively stock, but a full engine rebuild was performed to ensure reliability. New cams and some porting work brought the motor package together. A Lectron carburetor was fitted to cope with any altitude differences. The ingenious unit breathes through a DNA filter housed in a 3D-printed carbon intake plenum that is routed under the headlight shroud.

Real Dirt

The sizable tank was poached from a 2018 Street Bob. Among the bike's myriad of cool details is the hand-fabricated aluminum bodywork. Gilroy reflected, “I never thought I’d see something like that on a Sportster. It gives it a real modern dirt bike edge.” The keyword is 'real.' Informed by actual experience, this 'big dirt basher' is now ready for any adventure.

>>Join in the conversation about this Sportster Scrambler right here in Harley-Davidson Forums.

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