28 July. Tuesday 2026
Harley-Davidson XL883C Sportster - 2008 Specifications and Reviews
The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL883C Sportster is a lightweight custom cruiser designed for riders seeking an accessible entry point to Harley ownership. Its 883cc V-twin engine delivers manageable torque and impressive fuel efficiency, making it ideal for commuting and casual cruising. Known for its classic styling and nimble handling, the XL883C appeals to new riders and those preferring a stripped-down, minimalist aesthetic.
2008
General information | |
| Category | Custom / cruiser |
| Year | 2008 |
| Model | Harley-Davidson XL883C Sportster |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Exhaust system | Chrome, staggered shorty exhaust with dual mufflers |
| Greenhouse gases | 90.9 CO |
| Fuel consumption | 3.92 litres/100 km (25.5 km/l or 60.01 mpg) |
| Clutch | Multi-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath |
| Transmission type,final drive | Belt |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Cooling system | Air |
| Fuel system | Injection. Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) |
| Bore x stroke | 76.2 x 96.8 mm (3.0 x 3.8 inches) |
| Compression | 8.9:1 |
| Torque | 74.58 Nm (7.6 kgf-m or 55.0 ft.lbs) @ 3500 |
| Engine type | V2, four-stroke |
| Capacity: | 883.32 ccm (53.90 cubic inches) |
| | |
Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels | |
| Rear brakes | Single disc |
| Front brakes | Single disc |
| Rear tyre dimensions | 150/80-B16 |
| Front tyre dimensions | 100/90-H19 |
| Trail | 119 mm (4.7 inches) |
| Rake (fork angle) | 30.1° |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Fuel capacity | 17.03 litres (4.50 gallons) |
| Wheelbase | 1,534 mm (60.4 inches) |
| Ground clearance | 112 mm (4.4 inches) |
| Overall length | 2,294 mm (90.3 inches) |
| Seat height | 711 mm (28.0 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Weight incl. oil, gas, etc | 268.1 kg (591.0 pounds) |
| Dry weight | 256.3 kg (565.0 pounds) |
| | |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Color options | Vivid Black, Pacific Blue Pearl, Pewter Pearl, White Gold Pearl, Candy Red Sunglo (New), Two-Tone Suede Blue Pearl/Vivid Black, Two-Tone Pacific Blue Pearl/Vivid Black (New), Two-Tone Crimson Red Sunglo/Candy Red Sunglo,Purple Haze (Custom), Copperhead Pe |
| Starter | Electric |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
6.5s
0-60 mph (est.)
Best For
Track10%
City60%
Cornering35%
Daily Riding55%
Touring40%
Passenger30%
Rider Profile
| Best For | Suitable for beginner to intermediate riders thanks to its modest displacement and low-end torque delivery typical of the Sportster line. |
| Purpose | Built primarily as a stylish, low-slung custom cruiser for relaxed boulevard riding rather than outright performance. |
| Rider Fit | The low 711mm seat height and wide handlebar reach make it accessible for shorter riders, though the wide rear tyre and cruiser geometry can make slow-speed maneuvering feel heavier than the weight alone suggests. |
| Character | A classic air-cooled V-twin with laid-back power delivery, punchy low-end torque, and the unmistakable thump and vibration character Harley riders expect. |
| Not Ideal For | Not a good fit for riders seeking sharp cornering agility, sport-touring range, or any kind of off-road capability. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
Rider Reviews
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