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Cruisers

2008Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster 883 Low

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The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster 883 Low is an entry-level cruiser designed for riders seeking an accessible, manageable motorcycle with authentic Harley character. Its low seat height and lightweight V-twin engine deliver excellent maneuverability and fuel efficiency while maintaining the iconic styling cruiser enthusiasts expect. Known for its affordability and reliability, it serves as an ideal platform for both new riders and those upgrading within the Sportster lineup.

Capacity
883.3 ccm
Engine
V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox
5-speed
Dry weight
255.4 kg
Seat height
668 mm
Power
53.0 HP (39.0 kW)

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested
Speed 30Agility 40Comfort 62Off-road 5Touring 40Road manners 65
Off-road & trail5%
Cornering35%
City riding60%
Daily riding60%
Touring40%
Two-up30%
Track5%
Best for
Built primarily for relaxed street cruising and short trips rather than performance riding or long-distance touring.
Built for
A classic air-cooled V-twin cruiser experience with laid-back power delivery, torque-focused low-rev grunt, and a traditional Sportster feel and sound.
Not ideal for
Not a good fit for riders seeking high-speed performance, aggressive cornering ability, off-road capability, or extended two-up touring comfort.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to us
At 668mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2008 Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster 883 Low, with a cramped knee angle of around 70 degrees and an upright riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 750 mm or under — Short Kings →

Find bikes that fit your height →

Full specifications

Engine
Capacity
883.3 ccm
Power
53.0 HP (39.0 kW)
CO2 Emissions
91 CO2 g/km
Torque
74.6 Nm (7.6 kgf-m) @ 3500 RPM
Engine type
V-Twin, four-stroke
Fuel consumption
3.90 litres/100 km (25.6 km/l)
Power/weight ratio
0.2075 HP/kg
Bore x stroke
76.2 x 96.8 mm
Compression
8.9:1
Cooling system
Air
Fuel system
Injection
Starting
Electric
Valves per cylinder
2
Transmission
Gearbox
5-speed
Transmission type
Manual
Final drive
Belt
Clutch
Multi-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath
Dimensions & weight
Wheelbase
1524 mm
Overall length
2263 mm
Seat height
668 mm
Dry weight
255.4 kg
Wet weight
264.4 kg
Fuel capacity
12.50 litres
Ground clearance
112 mm
Chassis & suspension
Rake (fork angle)
29.6°
Trail
117 mm
Brakes & wheels
Front brakes
Single disc
Front brakes diameter
292 mm
Rear brakes
Single disc
Rear brakes diameter
292 mm
Front tyre
100/90-H19
Rear tyre
150/80-B16
Other
Color options
Vivid Black, Pewter Pearl, White Gold Pearl, Dark Blue Pearl, Crimson Red Sunglo.

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

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Common questions

What is the engine size of the Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster 883 Low?

The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster 883 Low has a Capacity of 883.3 ccm (53.90 cubic inches).

What engine power does the Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster 883 Low have?

The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster 883 Low has a Power of 53.0 HP (39.0 kW).

How many gears does the Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster 883 Low have?

The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster 883 Low has a Gearbox of 5-speed.

What is the torque of the Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster 883 Low?

The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster 883 Low has a Torque of 74.6 Nm (7.6 kgf-m or 55.0 ft.lbs) @ 3500 RPM.

How much does the Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster 883 Low weigh?

The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster 883 Low has a Dry weight of 255.4 kg (563.1 pounds).

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