Built around Harley-Davidson's sport motorcycle platform, the 1958 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH Ironhead pairs a 883 cc (53.9 cu in) air-cooled v2, four-stroke architecture with road-focused gearing. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 55 HP (40.1 kW) at 6,300 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 4-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 62.3 HP per liter, 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 XLCH Ironhead measures 222.3 kg (490 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.25 HP/kg (4.04 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 1,448 mm (57 in) wheelbase engineered for balanced agility and highway composure. The 17-liter (4.5 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 5.88 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 289 km (180 miles) between fill-ups.
Specific Output
62.3 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.25 HP/kg (4.04 kg/HP)
Theoretical Range
~289 km (180 mi)
Engine
Displacement883.0 ccm (53.88 cubic inches)
Engine TypeV2, four-stroke
Engine DetailsV2, four-stroke
Power55.0 HP (40.1 kW)) @ 6300 RPM
Compression9.0:1
Bore x Stroke76.2 x 96.8 mm (3.0 x 3.8 inches)
Fuel SystemCarburettor
Fuel ControlOverhead Valves (OHV)
CoolingAir
Transmission
Gearbox4-speed
Final DriveChain (final drive)
Performance
Fuel Consumption5.88 litres/100 km (17.0 km/l or 40.00 mpg)
Greenhouse Gases136.4 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
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.
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.
