Harley Davidson XL 883 Sportster (2002 – 2003)

Harley Davidson XL 883 Sportster (2002 - 2003)

The Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster: a bike that’s often overlooked in favor of its more expensive cousins. But give this little gem some attention and you’ll discover a rugged, no-nonsense machine that can hold its own on any road.

With a look that’s both brutal and beautiful, the XL 883 has shed its previous amorphous design for a leaner, meaner profile. The new-style petrol tank is a particular highlight, boasting a level of sophistication that’s hard to find in bikes from this price range. And then there’s the single seat – redesigned for comfort, not just style.

But it’s what lies beneath the surface that truly sets the XL 883 apart. Its potent V-twin engine delivers a raw, unbridled power that’s perfect for carving up twisties or cruising down the highway. The result is a riding experience that’s both exhilarating and effortless – a true testament to Harley-Davidson’s reputation for building bikes that feel like an extension of your own body.

The XL 883 Sportster may not be the flashiest bike on the block, but it’s one that will reward you with every mile. And at a price that won’t break the bank, this little Harley is an absolute steal – a motorcycle that will give you more bang for your buck than just about any other bike out there.

Key Specifications

Engine TypeFour stroke, 45 V-Twin, OHV, 2 valves per cylinder.
Engine Capacity883 cc / 53.9 cub in.
Max Torque69Nm 52 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm
Fuel Tank Capacity4.5 US gallons / 17.0 L
Weight (Wet/Kerb)579 lbs / 263 kg
Seat Height28 inches / 711.2 mm
Harley Davidson XL 883 Sportster (2002 - 2003)

All Specifications

Make & Model

ModelHarley Davidson XL 883 Sportster
Year2002 – 2003

Engine

Engine TypeFour stroke, 45 V-Twin, OHV, 2 valves per cylinder.
Displacement883 cc / 53.9 cub in.
Bore x Stroke76.2 x 96.8 mm
Compression Ratio8.8:1
Max Torque69Nm 52 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm
Engine Management SystemCarburetion (40 mm constant velocity with enrichener and accelerator pump) Air Cleaner/Filter Oval racetrack;
Cooling SystemAir cooled

Performance

Top Speedn/a

Transmission

ClutchMulti-plate clutch with diaphragm spring in oil bath
Gearbox5 Speed
Gear Ratios1st 10.944 9.792 9.4672nd 7.542 6.732 6.6633rd 5.834 5.220 5.1434th 4.806 4.301 4.2785th 4.071 3.643 3.643
Final DriveBelt

Electrical & Electronics System

StarterElectric

Chassis & Suspension

Frame TypeMild steel, tubular frame; circularsections; cast junctionsSwingarm Mild steel, rectangular tube sections, stamped junctions; MIG welded
Front Suspension39mm Conventional cartridge forks
Rear SuspensionDualshocks Coil-over; preload dual-adjustable
Rake29.6
Trail117 mm / 4.6 in

Wheels & Brakes

Front Tire Size100/90-19
Rear Tire Size130/90HB16
Front BrakesSingle 292mm disc 2 piston calipers
Rear BrakesSingle 292mm disc 1 piston calipers

Dimension & Weights

Seat Height28 inches / 711.2 mm
Wheelbase60 inches / 1522 mm
Ground Clearance112 mm / 4.4 om
Fuel Tank Capacity4.5 US gallons / 17.0 L
Wet (kerb/curb) Weight579 lbs / 263 kg
Dry Weight222 kg /489.0 lbs

Features

  • Subtle changes over five decades have resulted in a “brutal looking” bike.
  • Back-to-basics design.
  • Fine standard of finish and sophistication.
  • New style 12.5 litre petrol tank.
  • Redesigned single seat is more comfortable.
  • Wire wheels are a distinctive feature.
  • Flattish, narrow bars are comfortable to use.
  • “Bunny ear” bars on the 883 Hugger are inferior.
  • Mirrors are unusable at speeds over 45mph.
  • Overall finish is well-designed and well-made.
  • No unnecessary components or features.
  • Dominant feature of the bike is its motor.
  • Motor is uncluttered and intimidating.
  • Huge, impressive engine block.
Harley Davidson XL 883 Sportster (2002 - 2003)
Harley Davidson XL 883 Sportster (2002 - 2003)
Harley Davidson XL 883 Sportster (2002 - 2003)

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