Cruisers

2002Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 883

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The 2002 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 883 is an entry-level cruiser that appeals to riders seeking authentic American motorcycle culture without breaking the bank. Its compact air-cooled V-twin engine delivers accessible performance and impressive torque for its displacement. Best known for its nimble handling and low seat height, it remains the ideal platform for new riders transitioning into the cruiser segment.

Capacity: 883.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin
Gearbox: Not on record
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Dry weight: 235.0 kg
Seat height: 711 mm
Power: 53.0 HP (39.0 kW)

⇄ Compare with another bike All model years

Other years 2002 2003

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail10%

Cornering40%

City riding55%

Daily riding55%

Touring45%

Two-up45%

Track10%

Best for: Best for relaxed street riding, weekend cruising, and short highway jaunts rather than outright speed or long-distance touring.
Built for: A classic, torquey air-cooled Sportster that delivers laid-back cruiser charm with unmistakable Harley soul and mechanical simplicity.
Not ideal for: Not for riders seeking sharp cornering agility, sport-bike acceleration, or serious 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 711mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2002 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 883, with a cramped knee angle of around 75 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: 883.0 ccm
Power: 53.0 HP (39.0 kW)
Torque: 67.0 Nm (6.8 kgf-m)
Engine type: V-Twin
Power/weight ratio: 0.2255 HP/kg
Bore x stroke: 76.2 x 96.8 mm
Compression: 9.0:1
Cooling system: Air
Fuel system: Carburettor

Transmission

Final drive: Belt

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1510 mm
Overall length: 2235 mm
Seat height: 711 mm
Dry weight: 235.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 12.50 litres
Ground clearance: 170 mm
Reserve fuel capacity: 1.90 litres

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc
Front brakes diameter: 292 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc
Rear brakes diameter: 292 mm
Front tyre: 100/90-19 57H
Rear tyre: 130/90-B16 73H

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

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted

Specification	2002	2003
Capacity	883.00 ccm (53.88 cubic inches)	883.00 ccm (53.88 cubic inches)
Dry weight	235.0 kg (518.1 pounds)	235.0 kg (518.1 pounds)
Seat height	711 mm (28.0 inches)	—
Fuel capacity	12.50 litres (3.30 gallons)	12.50 litres (3.30 gallons)
Color options	—	Vivid black, gunmetal pearl, luxury rich red pearl, white pearl, luxury blue pearl