Cruisers
2008Harley-Davidson XL883 Sportster
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The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL883 Sportster is an entry-level cruiser ideal for new riders and those seeking an accessible, manageable motorcycle. Its 883cc V-twin engine delivers reliable low-end torque perfect for city riding and cruising, while the lightweight frame and nimble handling distinguish it from larger Harley models. Known for affordability and iconic styling, the XL883 remains a gateway to Harley ownership.
- Capacity
- 883.3 ccm
- Engine
- V-Twin, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Dry weight
- 255.4 kg
- Seat height
- 744 mm
- Power
- 56.6 HP (41.6 kW)
What’s new for the 2008 Harley-Davidson XL883 Sportster
vs the 2007| Spec | 2007 | 2008 |
|---|---|---|
| Front brakes | Single disc. Dual-piston | Single disc |
| Rear brakes | Single disc. Single-piston | Single disc |
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built for relaxed cruising, urban posing, and short highway jaunts rather than outright speed or long-distance touring.
- Built for
- A classic air-cooled V-twin cruiser that rewards laid-back throttle rolls with torque-driven grunt rather than high-rev thrills.
- Not ideal for
- Not a good fit for riders chasing sharp cornering performance, off-road capability, or serious two-up long-distance touring comfort.
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 usRange and running costs
Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to usBased 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.
Engine
- Capacity
- 883.3 ccm
- Power
- 56.6 HP (41.6 kW)
- CO2 Emissions
- 91 CO2 g/km
- Torque
- 74.6 Nm (7.6 kgf-m) @ 3500 RPM
- Engine type
- V-Twin, four-stroke
- Fuel consumption
- 3.90 litres/100 km (25.6 km/l)
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.2216 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
- 1524 mm
- Overall length
- 2289 mm
- Seat height
- 744 mm
- Dry weight
- 255.4 kg
- Wet weight
- 264.4 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 12.50 litres
- Ground clearance
- 142 mm
Chassis & suspension
- Rake (fork angle)
- 29.6°
- Trail
- 117 mm
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Single disc
- Rear brakes
- Single disc
- Front tyre
- 100/90-H19
- Rear tyre
- 150/80-B16
Other
- Color options
- Vivid Black, Pacific 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 | 2004 | 2005 | 2007 | 2008 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 883 cc | 883 cc | 883 cc | 883 cc |
| Dry weight | 251 kg | 251 kg | 255 kg | 255 kg |
| Seat height | 693 mm | 693 mm | 744 mm | 744 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 12.9 L | 12.9 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 XL883 Sportster?
The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL883 Sportster has a Capacity of 883.3 ccm (53.90 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Harley-Davidson XL883 Sportster have?
The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL883 Sportster has a Power of 56.6 HP (41.6 kW).
How many gears does the Harley-Davidson XL883 Sportster have?
The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL883 Sportster has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
What is the torque of the Harley-Davidson XL883 Sportster?
The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL883 Sportster has a Torque of 74.6 Nm (7.6 kgf-m or 55.0 ft.lbs) @ 3500 RPM.
How much does the Harley-Davidson XL883 Sportster weigh?
The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL883 Sportster has a Dry weight of 255.4 kg (563.1 pounds).
Shop this bike
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