Harley-Davidson XL 883R Sportster 883R - 2009 Specifications and Reviews

The 2009 Harley-Davidson XL 883R Sportster is an entry-level cruiser that appeals to new riders and commuters seeking an authentic Harley experience. Its 883cc V-twin engine delivers accessible power with classic styling, while the nimble handling and manageable seat height make it ideal for urban riding and highway cruising alike.

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General information

CategoryCustom / cruiser
Year2009
ModelHarley-Davidson XL 883R Sportster 883R

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Clutch9-plate, wet
Transmission typefinal driveBelt
Gearbox5-speed
Cooling systemAir
StarterElectric
Fuel systemInjection. Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection
Bore x stroke76.2 x 96.8 mm (3.0 x 3.8 inches)
Compression8.9:1
Torque70.00
Stroke4
Engine typeV2
Capacity:883.00 ccm (53.88 cubic inches)

Physical measures and capacities

Wheelbase1,520 mm (59.8 inches)
Ground clearance141 mm (5.6 inches)
Overall length2,245 mm (88.4 inches)
Seat height714 mm (28.1 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Dry weight251.0 kg (553.4 pounds)
 
 

Harley-Davidson XL 883R Sportster 883R dimensions and frame

Exhaust systemChrome, staggered shorty exhaust with dual mufflers
Rear brakes diameter292 mm (11.5 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc. Single piston
Front brakes diameter292 mm (11.5 inches)
Front brakesSingle disc. Dual piston calipers
Rear tyre dimensions150/80-16
Front tyre dimensions100/90-19
Rear suspension travel104 mm (4.1 inches)
Rear suspensionCoil-over, preload dual-adjustable
Front suspension travel141 mm (5.6 inches)
Front suspension39mm fork
Trail117 mm (4.6 inches)
Rake (fork angle)30.0°
Frame typeMild steel tubular frame; circular sections; cast junctions
 
 

Speed and acceleration

Color optionsVivid Black, Dark Blue Pearl, Mirage Orange Pearl
Fuel capacity12.50 litres (3.30 gallons)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

6.5s
0-60 mph (est.)

Best For

Track15%
City60%
Cornering40%
Daily Riding55%
Touring40%
Passenger35%

Rider Profile

Best ForSuits new-to-intermediate riders who want a torquey, easygoing V-twin cruiser without intimidating power delivery.
PurposeBuilt for relaxed street cruising and short rides where style and V-twin character matter more than outright speed.
Rider FitLow 760mm seat height and moderate 243kg dry weight make it manageable for shorter or less experienced riders.
CharacterA classic, low-revving American V-twin cruiser with laid-back attitude, punchy low-end torque, and minimal frills.
Not Ideal ForNot a good fit for riders wanting sharp cornering performance, long-distance touring comfort, or any off-road capability.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 714mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2009 Harley-Davidson XL 883R Sportster 883R, with a cramped knee angle of around 75 degrees and an upright riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

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