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Custom - Cruiser · 2001

Sportster 883 Hugger

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MotoLibrary Score
52 /100 Balanced
Power
53 HP
Top Speed
168 km/h
Torque
67 Nm
Engine
883 ccm

2001 Harley-Davidson Sportster 883 Hugger Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

Positioned in Harley-Davidson's custom - cruiser motorcycle lineup, the 2001 Harley-Davidson Sportster 883 Hugger features a 883 cc (53.9 cu in) air-cooled v2, four-stroke configuration. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 53 HP (38.7 kW) at 6,000 rpm while maximum torque reaches 67 Nm (49.4 lb-ft) at 4,400 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and belt final drive. With a specific output of 60 HP per liter and a 1,600 rpm working window between peak torque (4,400 rpm) and peak power (6,000 rpm), the engine character is indicating a tractable, stress-free state of tune focused on everyday usability and broad torque delivery.

On the scales, the Sportster 883 Hugger measures 235 kg (518 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.23 HP/kg (4.43 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 687 mm (27 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,505 mm (59.3 in) wheelbase engineered for balanced agility and highway composure. The 12.5-liter (3.3 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, while factory top speed is listed at 168 km/h (104 mph).

Within MotoLibrary's Harley-Davidson archive, this model family spans 2 indexed model years from 1996 to 2001, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.

Specific Output
60 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.23 HP/kg (4.43 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
4,400–6,000 rpm
Standover Height
687 mm (27 in)
Engine
Displacement 883.0 ccm (53.88 cubic inches)
Engine Type V2, four-stroke
Engine Details V2, four-stroke
Power 53.0 HP (38.7 kW)) @ 6000 RPM
Torque 67.0 Nm (6.8 kgf-m or 49.4 ft.lbs) @ 4400 RPM
Bore x Stroke 76.2 x 96.8 mm (3.0 x 3.8 inches)
Valves/Cylinder 2
Fuel System Carburettor
Cooling Air
Transmission
Gearbox 5-speed
Final Drive Belt (final drive)
Performance
Top Speed 168.0 km/h (104.4 mph)
Chassis
Front Travel 104 mm (4.1 inches)
Rear Travel 54 mm (2.1 inches)
Wheelbase 1505 mm (59.3 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Brakes Single disc
Front Brake Ø 292 mm (11.5 inches)
Rear Brakes Single disc
Rear Brake Ø 292 mm (11.5 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Weight incl. 235.0 kg (518.1 pounds)
Seat Height 687 mm (27.0 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Fuel Capacity 12.50 litres (3.30 US gallons)
Other
Starter Electric
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Before You Compare This Bike

Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.

Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
Rider Profile

Who Is This Bike For?

🟡
Intermediate
Requires some riding experience.
✌️
Best For
Cruising & Touring
📏
Seat Height
68.7 cm / 27 in
Estimate

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