Harley Davidson XL 883C Sportster Custom (1998 – 99)

Harley Davidson XL 883C Sportster Custom (1998 - 99)

The Harley-Davidson Sportster name has been synonymous with freedom and rebellion since its introduction in 1957. By the late 1990s, the lineup had grown to include several models, including the new XL883C Sportster Custom.

This bike is a torquey, about-town ride that embodies the essence of the Harley-Davidson experience. The 883cc-powered engine roars to life with a distinctive exhaust note that will leave you craving more.

With its custom styling features, longer front end and forward controls, this motorcycle offers tremendous value for riders seeking an authentic Harley-Davidson experience. Borrowing cues from its Sportster 1200 Custom cousin, the XL883C boasts radical riding dynamics, sleek drag bars, and a sporty two-up seat that exudes street-racer style.

The result is a bike that not only looks great but also provides unparalleled comfort and riding pleasure.

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 Height26.5 inches / 673.1 mm
Harley Davidson XL 883C Sportster Custom (1998 - 99)

All Specifications

Make & Model

ModelHarley Davidson XL 883C Sportster Custom
Year1998 – 99

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
Rake30.1
Trail120 mm / 4.7 in

Wheels & Brakes

Front Tire SizeD402F MH90-21 54H
Rear Tire SizeD401 150/80B16 71H
Front BrakesSingle 292mm disc 2 piston calipers
Rear BrakesSingle 292mm disc 1 piston calipers

Dimension & Weights

Seat Height26.5 inches / 673.1 mm
Wheelbase60.4 inches / 1534.1 mm
Ground Clearance112 mm / 4.4 om
Fuel Tank Capacity4.5 US gallons / 17.0 L
Wet (kerb/curb) Weight579 lbs / 263 kg
Dry Weight253 kg /558 lbs

Features

  • Longer front end
  • Forward controls
  • 883cc-powered Harley-Davidson engine
  • Custom styling features
  • Chrome bullet headlight with quartz halogen low beam and high beam
  • Sporty two-up seat
  • Self-canceling turn signal lights
  • Seat height: 27.56 inches (70.0cm)
  • Ground clearance: 6.7 inches (17.02cm)
  • Recalibrated XL883 Hugger rear suspension for two-up riding
  • Solid disc 16-inch (40.6cm) rear wheel
  • Laced 21-inch (53.3cm) front wheel
  • Chrome speedometer
  • Sealed tail light unit to prevent condensation and malfunction
  • Accessory-ready hookup
  • Circuit board instead of hard wiring for easier servicing
  • Torquey ride around town
Harley Davidson XL 883C Sportster Custom (1998 - 99)
Harley Davidson XL 883C Sportster Custom (1998 - 99)
Harley Davidson XL 883C Sportster Custom (1998 - 99)

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