Engineered by Harley-Davidson for the custom - cruiser motorcycle segment, the 2008 Harley-Davidson XL883 Sportster relies on a 883.3 cc (53.9 cu in) air-cooled v2, four-stroke powerplant. In factory specification, maximum torque reaches 74.6 Nm (55 lb-ft) at 3,500 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and belt final drive. Internal engine geometry specifies a bore and stroke of 76.2 x 96.8 mm (3.0 x 3.8 inches) with a 8.9:1 compression ratio.
On the scales, the XL883 Sportster measures 264.4 kg (583 lbs) wet (curb). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 744 mm (29.3 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,524 mm (60 in) wheelbase engineered for planted straight-line stability. The 12.49-liter (3.3 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 3.92 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 319 km (198 miles) between fill-ups.
Within MotoLibrary's Harley-Davidson archive, this model family spans 2 indexed model years from 2007 to 2008, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Theoretical Range
~319 km (198 mi)
Engine
Displacement883.3 ccm (53.90 cubic inches)
Engine TypeV2, four-stroke
Engine DetailsV2, four-stroke
Torque74.6 Nm (7.6 kgf-m or 55.0 ft.lbs) @ 3500 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 (ESPFI)
CoolingAir
Transmission
Gearbox5-speed
Final DriveBelt (final drive)
ClutchMulti-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath
Performance
Fuel Consumption3.92 litres/100 km (25.5 km/l or 60.01 mpg)
Greenhouse Gases90.9 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
ExhaustChrome, staggered shorty exhaust with dual mufflers
Chassis
Rake29.6°
Trail117 mm (4.6 inches)
Wheelbase1524 mm (60.0 inches)
Ground Clearance142 mm (5.6 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre100/90-H19
Rear Tyre150/80-B16
Front BrakesSingle disc
Rear BrakesSingle disc
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight255.4 kg (563.0 pounds)
Weight incl.264.4 kg (583.0 pounds)
Seat Height744 mm (29.3 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Overall Length2289 mm (90.1 inches)
Fuel Capacity12.49 litres (3.30 US gallons)
Other
StarterElectric
Color OptionsVivid Black, Pacific Blue Pearl.
Notes
Rubber-mounted, 883cc Evolution® engine; Silver powder-coated engine (including cylinders and cylinder heads) with polished covers; low-rise handlebar; classic solo seat; mid-mounted foot controls
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.
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.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
