Cruisers

2018Harley-Davidson Sportster Iron 883

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The 2018 Harley-Davidson Sportster Iron 883 is an entry-level cruiser designed for new and experienced riders seeking classic styling with manageable power and weight. Its 51 horsepower 883cc engine, lightweight 247kg frame, and accessible 653mm seat height make it ideal for riders prioritizing maneuverability and comfort over raw performance. Known for its minimalist iron design and affordable price point, the Iron 883 delivers authentic Harley character in an approachable package.

Capacity: 883.3 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 247.0 kg
Seat height: 653 mm
Power: 51.0 HP (37.2 kW) @ 6000 RPM

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What’s new for the 2018 Harley-Davidson Sportster Iron 883

vs the 2017

Spec	2017	2018
Power	52.0 HP (38.0 kW) @ 6000 RPM	51.0 HP (37.2 kW) @ 6000 RPM
Torque	71.0 Nm (7.2 kgf-m or 52.4 ft.lbs) @ 3750 RPM	68.0 Nm (6.9 kgf-m or 50.2 ft.lbs) @ 4750 RPM

Other years 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering30%

City riding60%

Daily riding55%

Touring30%

Two-up30%

Track10%

Best for: Built for laid-back cruising and boulevard style rather than outright performance or long-distance touring.
Built for: A classic air-cooled V-twin cruiser with punchy low-end torque, iconic sound, and minimalist blacked-out styling.
Not ideal for: Not suited to riders wanting sharp cornering agility, high-speed 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 653mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2018 Harley-Davidson Sportster Iron 883, with a cramped knee angle of around 70 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 →

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: 883.3 ccm
Power: 51.0 HP (37.2 kW) @ 6000 RPM
CO2 Emissions: 111 CO2 g/km
Torque: 68.0 Nm (6.9 kgf-m) @ 4750 RPM
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Fuel consumption: 4.80 litres/100 km (20.8 km/l)
Power/weight ratio: 0.2065 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 76.2 x 96.8 mm
Compression: 9.0:1
Cooling system: Air
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Lubrication system: Dry sump

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Belt
Clutch: Multi-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1515 mm
Overall length: 2179 mm
Seat height: 653 mm
Dry weight: 247.0 kg
Wet weight: 256.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 12.50 litres
Ground clearance: 100 mm
Oil capacity: 2.60 litres

Chassis & suspension

Front suspension: Telescopic fork
Rear suspension: Twin shocks.
Rake (fork angle): 26.0°
Trail: 117 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc. Optional ABS, dual piston
Front brakes diameter: 300 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc. Optional ABS, dual piston
Rear brakes diameter: 300 mm
ABS: Optional
Front tyre: 100/90-B19
Rear tyre: 150/80-B16

Other

Color options: Black Denim, Industrial Gray Denim, Wicked Red, Bonneville Salt Denim, Hard Candy Chameleon Flake

Specs last verified against published sources: October 2026.

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	2014	2015	2017	2018	2019
Capacity	883 cc	883 cc	883 cc	883 cc	883 cc
Dry weight	251 kg	251 kg	247 kg	247 kg	247 kg
Seat height	653 mm	653 mm	653 mm	653 mm	760 mm
Fuel capacity	12.5 L	12.5 L	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

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MotorcycleDB

The 2018 Harley-Davidson Sportster Iron 883 is a powerful and stylish motorcycle that offers a thrilling riding experience. With its 883cc V-twin engine, this bike delivers plenty of power and torque for an exhilarating ride. Its stripped-down design and blacked-out components give it a rugged and aggressive look that is sure to turn heads on the road. The low-slung seat and mid-mount foot controls provide a comfortable riding position, making it a great choice for both short trips around town and long rides on the open road.

Overall, the 2018 Harley-Davidson Sportster Iron 883 is a fantastic motorcycle that offers impressive performance and a bold, eye-catching aesthetic. Its powerful engine and comfortable riding position make it an excellent choice for riders who are looking for a thrilling and enjoyable riding experience. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a newcomer to the world of motorcycles, the Iron 883 is sure to impress with its combination of power, style, and comfort.

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