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Cruisers

2002Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster

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The 2002 Harley-Davidson XL 883 R Sportster is an air-cooled cruiser ideal for riders seeking an accessible entry point into the Harley brand with classic styling. Known for its nimble handling and low seat height, this lightweight 883cc V-twin delivers authentic cruiser character with manageable power suited to both new and experienced riders. Best recognized for combining genuine Harley heritage with affordability and ease of customization.

Capacity
883.0 ccm
Engine
V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox
5-speed
Dry weight
245.0 kg
Seat height
711 mm
Power
53.0 HP (39.0 kW)
⇄ Compare with another bike + Add to garage All model years
Other years 2002 2003 2008

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested
Speed 35Agility 40Comfort 55Off-road 5Touring 40Road manners 60
Off-road & trail5%
Cornering35%
City riding55%
Daily riding55%
Touring40%
Two-up35%
Track10%
Best for
Built for relaxed street cruising, boulevard riding, and short getaways rather than outright speed or long-distance touring.
Built for
A classic air-cooled Sportster with punchy low-end torque, a raw mechanical feel, and the traditional Harley soundtrack and vibration.
Not ideal for
Not ideal for riders seeking high-speed performance, aggressive cornering ability, 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 us
At 711mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2002 Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster, 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
68.0 Nm (6.9 kgf-m) @ 4000 RPM
Engine type
V-Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio
0.2163 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke
76.2 x 96.8 mm
Compression
9.0:1
Cooling system
Air
Fuel system
Carburettor
Starting
Electric
Transmission
Gearbox
5-speed
Transmission type
Manual
Final drive
Belt
Clutch
Multi-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath
Dimensions & weight
Wheelbase
1510 mm
Overall length
2235 mm
Seat height
711 mm
Dry weight
245.0 kg
Wet weight
266.7 kg
Fuel capacity
12.50 litres
Ground clearance
154 mm
Reserve fuel capacity
1.90 litres
Chassis & suspension
Rake (fork angle)
29.6°
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-HB16 73H

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 200220032008
Capacity 883 cc 883 cc 883 cc
Dry weight 245 kg 245 kg 251 kg
Seat height 711 mm 758 mm 759 mm
Fuel capacity 12.5 L 12.5 L 12.5 L

Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.

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Common questions

What is the engine size of the Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster?

The 2002 Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster has a Capacity of 883.0 ccm (53.88 cubic inches).

What engine power does the Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster have?

The 2002 Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster has a Power of 53.0 HP (39.0 kW).

How many gears does the Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster have?

The 2002 Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster has a Gearbox of 5-speed.

What is the torque of the Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster?

The 2002 Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster has a Torque of 68.0 Nm (6.9 kgf-m or 50.2 ft.lbs) @ 4000 RPM.

How much does the Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster weigh?

The 2002 Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster has a Dry weight of 245.0 kg (540.1 pounds).

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