Cruisers
2003Harley-Davidson XL 53C Sportster Custom 53
22 fields on record
The 2003 Harley-Davidson XL 53C Sportster Custom 53 is an air-cooled V-twin cruiser designed for riders seeking authentic American motorcycle character with manageable power. Its 883cc engine delivers accessible torque perfect for both newcomers and experienced riders preferring a lighter, nimble platform. Known for its classic custom styling and low seat height, this Sportster excels as an ideal entry-level Harley or reliable urban commuter.
- Capacity
- 883.0 ccm
- Engine
- V-Twin
- Gearbox
- Not on record
Know it? Add it → - Dry weight
- 245.0 kg
- Seat height
- 700 mm
- Power
- 56.6 HP (41.6 kW)
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built for relaxed boulevard cruising, weekend rides, and showing off classic custom styling rather than outright performance.
- Built for
- A laid-back, torque-driven cruiser with classic Harley V-twin thump, styled for looks and cruising presence rather than speed.
- Not ideal for
- Not suited for riders seeking sport-bike handling, 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?
Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to usEngine
- Capacity
- 883.0 ccm
- Power
- 56.6 HP (41.6 kW)
- Torque
- 67.0 Nm (6.8 kgf-m)
- Engine type
- V-Twin
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.2310 HP/kg (dry)
- Bore x stroke
- 76.2 x 96.8 mm
- Compression
- 9.0:1
- Cooling system
- Air
- Fuel system
- Carburettor
Transmission
- Final drive
- Belt
Dimensions & weight
- Wheelbase
- 1510 mm
- Overall length
- 2245 mm
- Seat height
- 700 mm
- Dry weight
- 245.0 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 12.50 litres
- Ground clearance
- 159 mm
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Single disc
- Front brakes diameter
- 292 mm
- Rear brakes
- Single disc
- Rear brakes diameter
- 292 mm
Other
- Color options
- 2-tone sterling silver & vivid black, vivid black, gunmetal pearl, luxury rich red pearl, white pearl, luxury blue pearl
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 883 cc | 883 cc |
| Dry weight | 245 kg | 245 kg |
| Seat height | 700 mm | 700 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 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 XL 53C Sportster Custom 53?
The 2003 Harley-Davidson XL 53C Sportster Custom 53 has a Capacity of 883.0 ccm (53.88 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Harley-Davidson XL 53C Sportster Custom 53 have?
The 2003 Harley-Davidson XL 53C Sportster Custom 53 has a Power of 56.6 HP (41.6 kW).
What is the torque of the Harley-Davidson XL 53C Sportster Custom 53?
The 2003 Harley-Davidson XL 53C Sportster Custom 53 has a Torque of 67.0 Nm (6.8 kgf-m or 49.4 ft.lbs).
How much does the Harley-Davidson XL 53C Sportster Custom 53 weigh?
The 2003 Harley-Davidson XL 53C Sportster Custom 53 has a Dry weight of 245.0 kg (540.1 pounds).
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