Sport Tourers
1981Harley-Davidson XLS 1000 Roadster
19 fields on record
The 1981 Harley-Davidson XLS 1000 Roadster is a classic middleweight cruiser powered by a 997cc air-cooled V-twin engine producing 55 horsepower. Ideal for riders seeking authentic American cruiser styling with manageable weight and performance, it exemplifies Harley's traditional character with its simple, proven engineering. Best known for its accessible power delivery and iconic roadster stance, it remains a favorite among enthusiasts valuing classic simplicity over modern complexity.
- Capacity
- 997.0 ccm
- Engine
- V-Twin
- Gearbox
- 4-speed
- Wet weight
- 245.0 kg
- Seat height
- Not on record
Know it? Add it → - Power
- 55.0 HP (40.5 kW) @ 5800 RPM
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- It's built for relaxed cruising and boulevard riding rather than speed or agility.
- Built for
- It has the soulful, torquey pulse of a traditional air-cooled Harley twin, rewarding a laid-back riding style.
- Not ideal for
- This is not the bike for riders seeking sharp cornering, high top speeds, or off-road capability.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Engine
- Capacity
- 997.0 ccm
- Power
- 55.0 HP (40.5 kW) @ 5800 RPM
- Engine type
- V-Twin
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.2245 HP/kg (wet)
- Bore x stroke
- 81.0 x 96.8 mm
- Compression
- 9.0:1
- Cooling system
- Air
- Valves per cylinder
- 2
- Torque
- Not on record - add it
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 4-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Chain
Performance
- Top speed
- 170.0 km/h (105.6 mph)
Dimensions & weight
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Dual disc
- Rear brakes
- Single disc
- Front tyre
- MJ 90-19
- Rear tyre
- MT 90-16
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 | 1980 | 1981 | 1983 | 1984 | 1985 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 997 cc | 997 cc | 997 cc | 997 cc | 997 cc |
| Fuel capacity | 13.5 L | 13.5 L | 15 L | 15 L | 15 L |
Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.
Rider Reviews
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Harley-Davidson XLS 1000 Roadster?
The 1981 Harley-Davidson XLS 1000 Roadster has a Capacity of 997.0 ccm (60.84 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Harley-Davidson XLS 1000 Roadster have?
The 1981 Harley-Davidson XLS 1000 Roadster has a Power of 55.0 HP (40.5 kW) @ 5800 RPM.
How many gears does the Harley-Davidson XLS 1000 Roadster have?
The 1981 Harley-Davidson XLS 1000 Roadster has a Gearbox of 4-speed.
How much does the Harley-Davidson XLS 1000 Roadster weigh?
The 1981 Harley-Davidson XLS 1000 Roadster has a Wet weight of 245.0 kg (540.1 pounds).
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