Cruisers

2018Harley-Davidson Sportster Iron 883 Dark Custom

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The 2018 Harley-Davidson Sportster Iron 883 Dark Custom is a lightweight, accessible cruiser designed for new and returning riders seeking authentic Harley styling with manageable performance. Its minimalist dark aesthetic, low 25.7-inch seat height, and nimble 544-pound dry weight make it ideal for urban commuting and laid-back weekend cruising. Known for its retro iron-head character and approachable power delivery, this entry-level Sportster emphasizes classic motorcycle culture over raw performance.

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 Dark Custom

vs the 2017

Spec	2017	2018
Power	53.0 HP (38.7 kW) @ 5750 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
Dry weight	251.0 kg (553.4 pounds)	247.0 kg (544.5 pounds)
Wet weight	260.0 kg (573.2 pounds)	256.0 kg (564.4 pounds)
Seat height	735 mm (28.9 inches)	653 mm (25.7 inches)
Front suspension	Telescopic cartridge fork	Telescopic fork
Rear suspension	Twin shocks, adjustable.	Twin shocks.
Front brakes	Single disc. Optional ABS. Dual-piston.	Single disc. Optional ABS, dual piston
Rear brakes	Single disc. Optional ABS. Dual-piston.	Single disc. Optional ABS, dual piston

Other years 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering35%

City riding65%

Daily riding55%

Touring30%

Two-up25%

Track10%

Best for: Built for laid-back street cruising and boulevard style rather than outright performance or long-distance touring.
Built for: A classic blacked-out custom cruiser with punchy low-end torque, a thumping air-cooled V-twin soundtrack, and understated dark styling.
Not ideal for: Not the right choice for riders wanting sharp cornering agility, high-speed touring comfort, or any kind of 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 Dark Custom, 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: 8.9:1
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, Charcoal Denim, Olive Gold, Red Iron Denim, Hard Candy Hot Rod Red 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	2013	2014	2016	2017	2018
Capacity	883 cc	883 cc	883 cc	883 cc	883 cc
Dry weight	251 kg	251 kg	251 kg	251 kg	247 kg
Seat height	653 mm	653 mm	735 mm	735 mm	653 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 Dark Custom is a stylish and powerful motorcycle that delivers a thrilling ride. Its dark custom design exudes a tough and gritty aesthetic, making it stand out on the road. The blacked-out components, including the engine, exhaust, and handlebars, give this bike a distinct and edgy look. The 883cc Evolution engine provides plenty of torque for a responsive and exhilarating riding experience. With its low-slung profile and comfortable seating position, the Iron 883 is a joy to ride for long distances.

Overall, the 2018 Harley-Davidson Sportster Iron 883 Dark Custom is a top-notch motorcycle that combines style, performance, and comfort. Its dark custom design and powerful engine make it a standout choice for riders who are looking for a bold and thrilling ride. Whether you're cruising around town or hitting the open road, this bike is sure to turn heads and deliver an unforgettable riding experience.

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