Cruisers
1987Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1100 Evolution
19 fields on record
The 1987 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1100 Evolution is a lightweight cruiser ideal for riders seeking accessible, nimble handling and classic American styling. Powered by the new 1100cc Evolution V-twin engine, it delivers reliable mid-range torque and established itself as an affordable entry point into the Harley-Davidson lineup. Known for its compact wheelbase and manageable weight, this Sportster remains popular among customization enthusiasts.
- Capacity
- 1101.0 ccm
- Engine
- V-Twin
- Gearbox
- 4-speed
- Wet weight
- 222.0 kg
- Seat height
- Not on record
Know it? Add it → - Power
- 50.0 HP (36.8 kW) @ 5500 RPM
What’s new for the 1987 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1100 Evolution
vs the 1986| Spec | 1986 | 1987 |
|---|---|---|
| Power | 63.0 HP (47.0 kW) | 50.0 HP (36.8 kW) @ 5500 RPM |
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built for relaxed cruising, boulevard presence, and short-to-medium rides rather than performance or long-distance touring.
- Built for
- Delivers classic air-cooled Evolution V-twin thump and vibration, rewarding riders who value character and sound over speed.
- Not ideal for
- Not suited to riders seeking high-speed touring capability, sharp cornering agility, or any form of off-road use.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Engine
- Capacity
- 1101.0 ccm
- Power
- 50.0 HP (36.8 kW) @ 5500 RPM
- Engine type
- V-Twin
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.2252 HP/kg (wet)
- Bore x stroke
- 85.1 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
- 164.0 km/h (101.9 mph)
Dimensions & weight
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Single disc
- Rear brakes
- Single disc
- Front tyre
- MJ 90-19
- Rear tyre
- MT 90-16
Specs last verified against published sources: .
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 | 1986 | 1987 |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 1101 cc | 1101 cc |
| Fuel capacity | 8.5 L | 8.5 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 XLH Sportster 1100 Evolution?
The 1987 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1100 Evolution has a Capacity of 1101.0 ccm (67.19 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1100 Evolution have?
The 1987 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1100 Evolution has a Power of 50.0 HP (36.8 kW) @ 5500 RPM.
How many gears does the Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1100 Evolution have?
The 1987 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1100 Evolution has a Gearbox of 4-speed.
How much does the Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1100 Evolution weigh?
The 1987 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1100 Evolution has a Wet weight of 222.0 kg (489.4 pounds).
Shop this bike
Affiliate linksWe may earn a commission from qualifying eBay or Amazon purchases made through these links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Similar bikes
Same category, weighted similarity
1988 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 1200
1198 cc · 222 kg · 736 mm
1986 Yamaha XV 1100 S Virago
1063 cc · 245 kg
1996 Honda VT 1100 C2 Shadow ACE
1099 cc · 260 kg · 730 mm
1995 Honda VT 1100 ACE Shadow
1099 cc · 260 kg · 730 mm
1982 Harley-Davidson XLH 1000 Sportster
997 cc · 246 kg
1987 Yamaha XV 1000 Virago
981 cc · 235 kg
More Harley-Davidson Motorcycles
1986 Harley-Davidson FLTC 1340 (with Sidecar)
2026 Harley-Davidson Street Bob 117
2026 Harley-Davidson Sportster S
2026 Harley-Davidson Tri Glide Ultra
2026 Harley-Davidson Low Rider ST
2025 Harley-Davidson CVO Street Glide
2026 Harley-Davidson Road King Special
1987 Harley-Davidson FLHTC 1340 (with Sidecar)
Please log in or register if you'd like to leave a comment.
Own one? Add it to My Garage and write an owner review with an Owner badge.