Cruisers

2011Harley-Davidson XL 883R Sportster 883R

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The 2011 Harley-Davidson XL 883R Sportster is a lightweight custom cruiser ideal for riders seeking an accessible entry point into the Harley brand. Powered by an air-cooled 883cc Evolution V-twin engine delivering smooth mid-range torque, it combines classic styling with modern fuel injection technology. Known for its nimble handling and approachable seat height, the 883R appeals to new riders and experienced enthusiasts alike.

Capacity: 883.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 243.1 kg
Seat height: 760 mm
Power: 53.0 HP (39.0 kW)

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What’s new for the 2011 Harley-Davidson XL 883R Sportster 883R

vs the 2010

Spec	2010	2011
Torque	70.0 Nm (7.1 kgf-m or 51.6 ft.lbs) @ 3750 RPM	66.0 Nm (6.7 kgf-m or 48.7 ft.lbs) @ 3500 RPM
Dry weight	251.0 kg (553.4 pounds)	243.1 kg (535.9 pounds)
Front suspension	Fork 39mm	Fork, 39 mm
Rear suspension	Coil-over shocks, preload dual adjustments	Coil-over; preload dual-adjustable
Front brakes	Single disc. Dual piston	Single disc. Patented, uniform expansion rotors. Dual-piston.
Rear brakes	Single disc. Single piston	Single disc. Patented, uniform expansion rotors. Single-piston.
Wheelbase	1520 mm (59.8 inches)	1542 mm (60.7 inches)

Other years 2006 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 760mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2011 Harley-Davidson XL 883R Sportster 883R, with a cramped knee angle of around 85 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 751-820 mm — Middle Ground →

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Range and running costs

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Units

Currency

Fuel per litre

Riding a year

Based on the maker's published fuel consumption and tank size. Real-world figures depend on how and where you ride, and the last litres of a tank are reserve. Prices shown greyed are examples - type your own.

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 883.0 ccm
Power: 53.0 HP (39.0 kW)
CO2 Emissions: 121 CO2 g/km
Torque: 66.0 Nm (6.7 kgf-m) @ 3500 RPM
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Fuel consumption: 5.20 litres/100 km (19.2 km/l)
Power/weight ratio: 0.2180 HP/kg (dry)
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: Multi-plate, wet

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1542 mm
Overall length: 2245 mm
Seat height: 760 mm
Dry weight: 243.1 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
Front suspension: Fork, 39 mm
Rear suspension: Coil-over; preload dual-adjustable
Front wheel travel: 108 mm
Rear wheel travel: 104 mm
Rake (fork angle): 29.7°
Trail: 112 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc. Patented, uniform expansion rotors. Dual-piston.
Front brakes diameter: 292 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc. Patented, uniform expansion rotors. Single-piston.
Rear brakes diameter: 292 mm
Front tyre: 100/90-19
Rear tyre: 150/80-16