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Cruisers

2008Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster Police

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The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster Police is a purpose-built law enforcement cruiser featuring a reliable 883cc air-cooled V-twin engine with electronic fuel injection. Best suited for riders seeking a lightweight, nimble cruiser for urban riding and patrol duties, it combines classic Harley styling with practical handling and durability. Known for its accessible seat height and manageable power delivery, making it ideal for riders transitioning to larger motorcycles.

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

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested
Speed 35Agility 45Comfort 55Off-road 10Touring 40Road manners 60
Off-road & trail10%
Cornering35%
City riding65%
Daily riding55%
Touring40%
Two-up30%
Track10%
Best for
Originally built as a duty bike, it excels at low-speed maneuvering, stop-and-go patrol work, and short urban commuting rather than outright speed or long-distance cruising.
Built for
A no-nonsense, air-cooled V-twin cruiser with classic Harley thump, stripped-down police-spec durability, and a stable, planted feel rather than sporty agility.
Not ideal for
Not a good fit for riders seeking high-speed performance, aggressive cornering ability, or a plush long-haul touring setup with passenger comfort.

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

Will it fit you?

Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to us
At 693mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2008 Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster Police, 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
882.7 ccm
Power
53.0 HP (39.0 kW)
Torque
74.6 Nm (7.6 kgf-m)
Engine type
V-Twin
Power/weight ratio
0.2075 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke
76.2 x 96.8 mm
Compression
8.9:1
Cooling system
Air
Fuel system
Injection
Transmission
Gearbox
5-speed
Transmission type
Manual
Final drive
Belt
Clutch
9-plate, wet
Dimensions & weight
Wheelbase
1524 mm
Overall length
2289 mm
Overall height
1161 mm
Seat height
693 mm
Dry weight
255.4 kg
Fuel capacity
12.50 litres
Ground clearance
142 mm
Reserve fuel capacity
3.00 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
Rear tyre
150/80-B16
Other
Color options
Birch White, Vivid Black, Glacier White Pearl

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

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Common questions

What is the engine size of the Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster Police?

The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster Police has a Capacity of 882.7 ccm (53.87 cubic inches).

What engine power does the Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster Police have?

The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster Police has a Power of 53.0 HP (39.0 kW).

How many gears does the Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster Police have?

The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster Police has a Gearbox of 5-speed.

What is the torque of the Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster Police?

The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster Police has a Torque of 74.6 Nm (7.6 kgf-m or 55.0 ft.lbs).

How much does the Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster Police weigh?

The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster Police has a Dry weight of 255.4 kg (563.1 pounds).

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