Cruisers
2003Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 883
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The 2003 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 883 is an entry-level cruiser ideal for new and returning riders seeking authentic motorcycle character. Its air-cooled V-twin engine delivers accessible performance with genuine Harley torque, while the lightweight frame and nimble handling make it perfect for both city commuting and weekend rides. Known for reliability and customization potential, the 883 remains a gateway machine to the Harley lifestyle.
- Capacity
- 883.0 ccm
- Engine
- V-Twin
- Gearbox
- Not on record
Know it? Add it → - Dry weight
- 235.0 kg
- Seat height
- 711 mm
- Power
- 53.0 HP (39.0 kW)
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Best for relaxed street riding, weekend cruising, and short highway jaunts rather than outright speed or long-distance touring.
- Built for
- A classic, torquey air-cooled Sportster that delivers laid-back cruiser charm with unmistakable Harley soul and mechanical simplicity.
- Not ideal for
- Not for riders seeking sharp cornering agility, sport-bike acceleration, or serious 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?
Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to usEngine
- Capacity
- 883.0 ccm
- Power
- 53.0 HP (39.0 kW)
- Torque
- 67.0 Nm (6.8 kgf-m)
- Engine type
- V-Twin
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.2255 HP/kg (dry)
- Bore x stroke
- 76.2 x 96.8 mm
- Compression
- 9.0:1
- Cooling system
- Air
- Fuel system
- Carburettor
Transmission
- Final drive
- Belt
Dimensions & weight
- Wheelbase
- 1510 mm
- Overall length
- 2235 mm
- Seat height
- 711 mm
- Dry weight
- 235.0 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 12.50 litres
- Ground clearance
- 170 mm
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 57H
- Rear tyre
- 130/90-B16 73H
Other
- Color options
- Vivid black, gunmetal pearl, luxury rich red pearl, white pearl, luxury blue 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 | 2002 | 2003 |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 883 cc | 883 cc |
| Dry weight | 235 kg | 235 kg |
| Seat height | 711 mm | 711 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 12.5 L | 12.5 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 883?
The 2003 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 883 has a Capacity of 883.0 ccm (53.88 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 883 have?
The 2003 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 883 has a Power of 53.0 HP (39.0 kW).
What is the torque of the Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 883?
The 2003 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 883 has a Torque of 67.0 Nm (6.8 kgf-m or 49.4 ft.lbs).
How much does the Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 883 weigh?
The 2003 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 883 has a Dry weight of 235.0 kg (518.1 pounds).
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