Cruisers

2009Harley-Davidson XL 883R Sportster 883R

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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.

Capacity: 883.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 251.0 kg
Seat height: 714 mm
Power: 53.0 HP (39.0 kW)

⇄ Compare with another bike All model years

Other years 2009 2010 2011

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail10%

Cornering40%

City riding60%

Daily riding55%

Touring40%

Two-up35%

Track15%

Best for: Built for relaxed street cruising and short rides where style and V-twin character matter more than outright speed.
Built for: A classic, low-revving American V-twin cruiser with laid-back attitude, punchy low-end torque, and minimal frills.
Not ideal for: Not a good fit for riders wanting sharp cornering performance, long-distance 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 714mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (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.

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, four-stroke
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: Injection
Starting: Electric
Valves per cylinder: 2
Lubrication system: Dry-sump

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Belt
Clutch: 9-plate, wet

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1520 mm
Overall length: 2245 mm
Seat height: 714 mm
Dry weight: 251.0 kg
Wet weight: 262.6 kg
Fuel capacity: 12.50 litres
Ground clearance: 141 mm
Oil capacity: 2.50 litres

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: 141 mm
Rear wheel travel: 104 mm
Rake (fork angle): 30.0°
Trail: 117 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc. Dual 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, Dark Blue Pearl, Mirage Orange Pearl

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	2009	2010	2011
Capacity	883.00 ccm (53.88 cubic inches)	883.00 ccm (53.88 cubic inches)	883.00 ccm (53.88 cubic inches)
Dry weight	251.0 kg (553.4 pounds)	251.0 kg (553.4 pounds)	243.1 kg (536.0 pounds)
Seat height	714 mm (28.1 inches)	760 mm (29.9 inches)	760 mm (29.9 inches)
Fuel capacity	12.50 litres (3.30 gallons)	12.50 litres (3.30 gallons)	12.50 litres (3.30 gallons)
Color options	Vivid Black, Dark Blue Pearl, Mirage Orange Pearl	Vivid Black, Brilliant Silver Pearl, Mirage Orange Pearl	—