Cruisers

2012Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster SuperLow

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The 2012 Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster SuperLow is an entry-level cruiser designed for riders seeking an accessible, manageable motorcycle with authentic Harley character. Its exceptionally low 25.5-inch seat height and lightweight 563-pound frame make it ideal for shorter riders or those new to motorcycling. Known for its classic styling, reliable 883cc engine, and approachable handling, the SuperLow delivers genuine cruiser appeal without intimidating complexity.

Capacity: 883.3 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 243.1 kg
Seat height: 648 mm
Power: 121.0 HP (89.0 kW)

⇄ Compare with another bike All model years

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering35%

City riding65%

Daily riding60%

Touring35%

Two-up25%

Track10%

Best for: Built for relaxed, low-slung cruising and short-to-medium rides rather than outright speed or long-distance touring.
Built for: A classic air-cooled Evolution V-twin delivers torquey, unhurried power with an emphasis on style, sound, and cruiser presence over aggressive performance.
Not ideal for: Not suited to riders wanting sharp cornering agility, high-speed touring comfort, or any off-road capability.

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

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 648mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2012 Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster SuperLow, 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: 121.0 HP (89.0 kW)
CO2 Emissions: 107 CO2 g/km
Torque: 74.6 Nm (7.6 kgf-m) @ 3500 RPM
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Fuel consumption: 4.60 litres/100 km (21.7 km/l)
Power/weight ratio: 0.4977 HP/kg
Bore x stroke: 76.2 x 96.8 mm
Compression: 8.9:1
Cooling system: Air
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Lubrication system: Dry-sump

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Belt
Clutch: Multi-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1506 mm
Overall length: 2187 mm
Seat height: 648 mm
Dry weight: 243.1 kg
Wet weight: 255.4 kg
Fuel capacity: 17.00 litres
Ground clearance: 97 mm
Oil capacity: 2.60 litres

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Mild steel, tubular frame; circular sections; cast junctions
Front suspension: 39 mm Showa
Rear suspension: Mild steel, rectangular tube section, stamped junctions, MIG welded swing-arm. Coil-over; preload dual-adjustable shocks.
Rake (fork angle): 31.1°
Trail: 145 mm