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Custom - Cruiser · 2005

XL 883 Sportster

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MotoLibrary Score
48 /100 Balanced
Power/Weight
0.27 hp/kg
Torque
69 Nm
Engine
883 ccm

2005 Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster Key Specifications & Summary

The 2005 Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster is a custom - cruiser motorcycle manufactured by Harley-Davidson, equipped with a 883.0 ccm (53.88 cubic inches) displacement unit (V2, four-stroke) with air cooling. In factory trim, the engine delivers a rated power of 68.0 HP (49.6 kW)) and peak torque of 69.0 Nm (7.0 kgf-m or 50.9 ft.lbs) @ 4200 RPM, paired with a 5-speed transmission and belt (final drive) final drive.

For rider ergonomics and real-world handling, key chassis measurements include a dry weight of 251.0 kg (553.4 pounds), seat height of 693 mm (27.3 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting., fuel capacity of 12.90 litres (3.41 US gallons). Review the complete factory specification tables below to evaluate engine internals, suspension travel, braking hardware, tyre sizes and ownership estimates, or compare the 2005 Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster side by side against rival models in the Custom - Cruiser lineup.

Engine
Displacement 883.0 ccm (53.88 cubic inches)
Engine Type V2, four-stroke
Engine Details V2, four-stroke
Power 68.0 HP (49.6 kW))
Torque 69.0 Nm (7.0 kgf-m or 50.9 ft.lbs) @ 4200 RPM
Compression 9.0:1
Bore x Stroke 76.2 x 96.8 mm (3.0 x 3.8 inches)
Valves/Cylinder 2
Fuel System Carburettor
Fuel Control Overhead Valves (OHV)
Ignition Digital CDI
Cooling Air
Transmission
Gearbox 5-speed
Final Drive Belt (final drive)
Clutch Multi-plate clutch with diaphragm spring in oil bath.
Performance
Exhaust Staggered shorty duals
Chassis
Frame Type Mild steel, tubular frame, circular sections, cast junctions
Rake 29.6°
Trail 117 mm (4.6 inches)
Front Suspension 39mm Telescopic forks
Rear Suspension Coil-over, dual-adjustable preload
Wheelbase 1520 mm (59.8 inches)
Ground Clearance 141 mm (5.6 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre 100/90-19
Rear Tyre 150/80-16
Front Brakes Single disc. Two-piston calipers.
Front Brake Ø 292 mm (11.5 inches)
Rear Brakes Single disc. Single-piston caliper.
Rear Brake Ø 292 mm (11.5 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight 251.0 kg (553.4 pounds)
Weight incl. 264.4 kg (582.9 pounds)
Power/Weight 0.2709 HP/kg
Seat Height 693 mm (27.3 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Overall Length 2260 mm (89.0 inches)
Fuel Capacity 12.90 litres (3.41 US gallons)
Oil Capacity 2.80 litres (2.96 US quarts)
Other
Starter Electric
Color Options Vivid black, brilliant silver pearl, sierra red pearl, chopper blue pearl, two tone purple
Notes

Rubber-mounted engine.

More from Harley-Davidson
Buying Checklist

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.
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.
Rider Profile

Who Is This Bike For?

🟡
Intermediate
Requires some riding experience.
✌️
Best For
Cruising & Touring
📏
Seat Height
69.3 cm / 27.3 in
⚖️
Handling
Heavy bike — requires confident handling
100 ? 600 : hp > 50 ? 400 : 250; return Math.round(base + (this.km / 10000) * 150); }, get insuranceCost() { const hp = 68; return Math.round(hp > 100 ? 800 : hp > 50 ? 500 : 300); }, get total() { return this.fuelCost + this.maintenanceCost + this.insuranceCost; }, get monthly() { return Math.round(this.total / 12); } }">
Estimate

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* Estimates only. Actual costs vary by country, riding habits, insurance provider and maintenance schedule.

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