2016 Harley-Davidson Sportster Iron 883 Dark Custom Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown
Positioned in Harley-Davidson's custom - cruiser motorcycle lineup, the 2016 Harley-Davidson Sportster Iron 883 Dark Custom utilizes a 883.3 cc (53.9 cu in) air-cooled v2, four-stroke layout. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 53 HP (38.7 kW) at 5,750 rpm while maximum torque reaches 71 Nm (52.4 lb-ft) at 3,750 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and belt final drive. With a specific output of 60 HP per liter and a 2,000 rpm working window between peak torque (3,750 rpm) and peak power (5,750 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 Iron 883 Dark Custom measures 260 kg (573 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.2 HP/kg (4.91 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 735 mm (28.9 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,510 mm (59.4 in) wheelbase engineered for balanced agility and highway composure. The 12.49-liter (3.3 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 4.61 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 271 km (168 miles) between fill-ups.
Within MotoLibrary's Harley-Davidson archive, this model family spans 5 indexed model years from 2013 to 2018, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
60 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.2 HP/kg (4.91 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
3,750–5,750 rpm
Theoretical Range
~271 km (168 mi)
Engine
Displacement883.3 ccm (53.90 cubic inches)
Engine TypeV2, four-stroke
Engine DetailsEvolution® engine
Power53.0 HP (38.7 kW)) @ 5750 RPM
Torque71.0 Nm (7.2 kgf-m or 52.4 ft.lbs) @ 3750 RPM
Compression8.9:1
Bore x Stroke76.2 x 96.8 mm (3.0 x 3.8 inches)
Fuel SystemInjection. Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection
CoolingAir
Transmission
Gearbox6-speed
Final DriveBelt (final drive)
ClutchMulti-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath
DrivelineChain, 57/34 ratio primary drive
Performance
Fuel Consumption4.61 litres/100 km (21.7 km/l or 51.02 mpg)
Greenhouse Gases107.0 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
ExhaustChrome, staggered shorty exhaust with dual mufflers
Chassis
Rake30.5°
Trail117 mm (4.6 inches)
Front SuspensionTelescopic cartridge fork
Rear SuspensionTwin shocks, adjustable.
Wheelbase1510 mm (59.4 inches)
Ground Clearance120 mm (4.7 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre100/90-B19
Rear Tyre150/80-B16
Front BrakesSingle disc. Optional ABS. Dual-piston.
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.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
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.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
