Cruisers
2008Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster
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The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster is an entry-level cruiser designed for riders seeking an authentic Harley experience with manageable size and weight. Its 883cc V-twin engine delivers approachable power and torque, making it ideal for new riders and urban commuters. Known for its classic styling, nimble handling, and iconic brand heritage, the XL883R remains one of the most accessible Harley models.
- Capacity
- 883.0 ccm
- Engine
- V-Twin, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Dry weight
- 251.0 kg
- Seat height
- 759 mm
- Power
- 56.6 HP (41.6 kW)
What’s new for the 2008 Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster
vs the 2003| Spec | 2003 | 2008 |
|---|---|---|
| Power | 53.0 HP (39.0 kW) | 56.6 HP (41.6 kW) |
| Torque | 68.0 Nm (6.9 kgf-m or 50.2 ft.lbs) | 70.0 Nm (7.1 kgf-m or 51.6 ft.lbs) @ 3750 RPM |
| Dry weight | 245.0 kg (540.1 pounds) | 251.0 kg (553.4 pounds) |
| Compression | 9.0:1 | 8.9:1 |
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built as a lightweight, sporty cruiser for spirited street riding, short blasts, and everyday around-town fun rather than long-distance or high-speed touring.
- Built for
- A punchy, torque-driven air-cooled V-twin with classic Harley soul, offering satisfying low-end grunt over outright top-end speed.
- Not ideal for
- Not the right choice for riders wanting highway touring comfort, passenger-friendly ergonomics, 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?
Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to usEngine
- Capacity
- 883.0 ccm
- Power
- 56.6 HP (41.6 kW)
- Torque
- 70.0 Nm (7.1 kgf-m) @ 3750 RPM
- Engine type
- V-Twin, four-stroke
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.2255 HP/kg (dry)
- Bore x stroke
- 76.2 x 96.8 mm
- Compression
- 8.9:1
- Cooling system
- Air
- Fuel system
- Injection
- Starting
- Electric
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Belt
- Clutch
- Multi-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath
Dimensions & weight
- Wheelbase
- 1520 mm
- Overall length
- 2245 mm
- Seat height
- 759 mm
- Dry weight
- 251.0 kg
- Wet weight
- 266.7 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 12.50 litres
- Ground clearance
- 141 mm
Chassis & suspension
- Rake (fork angle)
- 30.0°
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Single disc
- Front brakes diameter
- 292 mm
- Rear brakes
- Single disc
- Rear brakes diameter
- 292 mm
- Front tyre
- 100/90-H19
- Rear tyre
- 100/90-H19
Other
- Color options
- Vivid Black, Dark Blue Pearl, Mirage Orange Pearl
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 | 2002 | 2003 | 2008 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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.
Rider Reviews
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster?
The 2008 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 2008 Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster has a Power of 56.6 HP (41.6 kW).
How many gears does the Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster have?
The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
What is the torque of the Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster?
The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster has a Torque of 70.0 Nm (7.1 kgf-m or 51.6 ft.lbs) @ 3750 RPM.
How much does the Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster weigh?
The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster has a Dry weight of 251.0 kg (553.4 pounds).
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