Cruisers

2009Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster 883

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The 2009 Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster is an entry-level cruiser perfect for new riders and those seeking an authentic, manageable motorcycle. Its air-cooled 883cc V-twin engine delivers accessible performance with classic Harley character and styling. Known for reliability, affordability, and easy handling, it's ideal for urban commuting and weekend cruising.

Capacity: 883.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 251.0 kg
Seat height: 693 mm
Power: 53.0 HP (39.0 kW)

⇄ Compare with another bike All model years

What’s new for the 2009 Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster 883

vs the 2008

Spec	2008	2009
Engine capacity	882.66 ccm (53.86 cubic inches)	883.0 ccm (53.88 cubic inches)
Power	53.0 HP	53.0 HP (39.0 kW)
Torque	69.15	70.0 Nm (7.1 kgf-m or 51.6 ft.lbs)
Weight	251.7 kg (555.0 pounds)	251.0 kg (553.4 pounds)
Seat height	—	693 mm (27.3 inches)
Fuel capacity	12.49 litres (3.30 gallons)	12.50 litres (3.30 US gallons)
Front suspension	—	39mm fork
Rear suspension	—	Coil-over; preload dual-adjustable
Front brakes	Single disc	Single disc. 2-piston calipers
Rear brakes	Single disc	Single disc. Single piston
Wheelbase	1,524 mm (60.0 inches)	1520 mm (59.8 inches)

Other years 2006 2007 2008 2009

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail10%

Cornering35%

City riding55%

Daily riding55%

Touring40%

Two-up40%

Track10%

Best for: Built for relaxed around-town cruising and short scenic rides rather than outright speed or long-distance touring.
Built for: A classic air-cooled Harley cruiser experience with laid-back ergonomics, torquey low-end power delivery, and a strong emphasis on style and sound.
Not ideal for: Not the right choice for riders seeking sharp handling, 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 693mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2009 Harley-Davidson XL 883 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: 70.0 Nm (7.1 kgf-m)
Engine type: V-Twin
Power/weight ratio: 0.2112 HP/kg
Bore x stroke: 76.2 x 96.8 mm
Compression: 8.9:1
Cooling system: Air
Fuel system: Carburettor
Starting: Electric
Valves per cylinder: 2

Transmission

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

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1520 mm
Overall length: 2260 mm
Seat height: 693 mm
Dry weight: 251.0 kg
Wet weight: 260.4 kg
Fuel capacity: 12.50 litres
Ground clearance: 141 mm

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Mild steel tubular frame; circular sections; cast junctions
Front suspension: 39mm fork
Rear suspension: Coil-over; preload dual-adjustable
Front wheel travel: 105 mm
Rake (fork angle): 30.0°
Trail: 117 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc. 2-piston calipers
Front brakes diameter: 292 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc. Single piston
Rear brakes diameter: 292 mm
Front tyre: 100/90-19
Rear tyre: 150/80-16

Other

Color options: Vivid Black, Flame Blue Pearl
Modifications compared to previous model: New low-profile front fender; New rear shocks for improved ride quality.

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	2006	2007	2008	2009
Capacity	882.66 ccm (53.86 cubic inches)	882.66 ccm (53.86 cubic inches)	882.66 ccm (53.86 cubic inches)	883.00 ccm (53.88 cubic inches)
Dry weight	251.7 kg (555.0 pounds)	251.7 kg (555.0 pounds)	251.7 kg (555.0 pounds)	251.0 kg (553.4 pounds)
Seat height	—	—	—	693 mm (27.3 inches)
Fuel capacity	12.49 litres (3.30 gallons)	12.49 litres (3.30 gallons)	12.49 litres (3.30 gallons)	12.50 litres (3.30 gallons)
Color options	Vivid black, brilliant silver, chopper blue, fire red pearl	Vivid black, brilliant silver, chopper blue, fire red pearl	Vivid black, brilliant silver, chopper blue, fire red pearl	Vivid Black, Flame Blue Pearl