Cruisers
2008Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster 883
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The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster 883 is the entry point to Harley's long-running Sportster range. Its air-cooled 882.7cc V-twin makes 53 hp and 69.2 Nm through a five-speed gearbox and belt drive. A 693 mm seat and a 12.5-litre tank make it simple and classic.
- Capacity
- 882.7 ccm
- Engine
- V-Twin, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Dry weight
- 251.7 kg
- Seat height
- 693 mm
- Power
- 53.0 HP (39.0 kW)
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built for relaxed around-town cruising and short scenic rides rather than outright speed or long-distance touring.
- Built for
- A classic air-cooled Harley cruiser experience with laid-back ergonomics, torquey low-end power delivery, and a strong emphasis on style and sound.
- Not ideal for
- Not the right choice for riders seeking sharp handling, 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?
Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to usEngine
- Capacity
- 882.7 ccm
- Power
- 53.0 HP (39.0 kW)
- Torque
- 69.2 Nm (7.1 kgf-m)
- Engine type
- V-Twin, four-stroke
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.2106 HP/kg (dry)
- Bore x stroke
- 76.2 x 96.8 mm
- Compression
- 8.9:1
- Cooling system
- Air
- Fuel system
- Carburettor
- Starting
- Electric
- Valves per cylinder
- 2
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Belt
- Clutch
- Multi-plate clutch with diaphragm spring in oil bath
Dimensions & weight
- Wheelbase
- 1524 mm
- Overall length
- 2289 mm
- Seat height
- 693 mm
- Dry weight
- 251.7 kg
- Wet weight
- 260.4 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 12.50 litres
- Ground clearance
- 142 mm
Chassis & suspension
- Frame
- Mild steel tubular frame; circular sections; cast junctions
- Front suspension
- 39mm fork
- Rear suspension
- Coil-over; preload dual-adjustable
- Front wheel travel
- 105 mm
- Rake (fork angle)
- 29.6°
- Trail
- 117 mm
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Single disc
- Front brakes diameter
- 292 mm
- Rear brakes
- Single disc
- Rear brakes diameter
- 292 mm
- Front tyre
- 100/90-19
- Rear tyre
- 150/80-16
Other
- Color options
- Vivid black, brilliant silver, chopper blue, fire red 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 | 2006 | 2007 | 2008 | 2009 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 883 cc | 883 cc | 883 cc | 883 cc |
| Dry weight | 252 kg | 252 kg | 252 kg | 251 kg |
| Seat height | 693 mm | 693 mm | 693 mm | 693 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 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
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster 883?
The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster 883 has a Capacity of 882.7 ccm (53.87 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster 883 have?
The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster 883 has a Power of 53.0 HP (39.0 kW).
How many gears does the Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster 883 have?
The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster 883 has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
What is the torque of the Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster 883?
The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster 883 has a Torque of 69.2 Nm (7.1 kgf-m or 51.0 ft.lbs).
How much does the Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster 883 weigh?
The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster 883 has a Dry weight of 251.7 kg (554.9 pounds).
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