Cruisers

1998Harley-Davidson XL883C Sportster Custom

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The 1998 Harley-Davidson XL 883 C Sportster Custom is an entry-level cruiser ideal for riders seeking authentic Harley styling and character. Its compact 883cc V-twin engine delivers accessible performance with classic air-cooled simplicity, while the low seat height and nimble handling make it perfect for urban riding and weekend cruises.

Capacity: 883.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 228.0 kg
Seat height: 688 mm
Power: 50.0 HP (36.8 kW)

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Other years 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2007

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering30%

City riding55%

Daily riding55%

Touring35%

Two-up35%

Track5%

Best for: Built for relaxed boulevard cruising and short weekend rides rather than outright speed or long-distance touring.
Built for: A classic air-cooled V-twin cruiser that delivers strong low-end torque and a laid-back, thumping character over outright performance.
Not ideal for: Not a good fit for riders seeking aggressive cornering ability, 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 688mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 1998 Harley-Davidson XL883C Sportster Custom, with a cramped knee angle of around 75 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 →

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 883.0 ccm
Power: 50.0 HP (36.8 kW)
Torque: 66.0 Nm (6.7 kgf-m) @ 4100 RPM
Engine type: V-Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.2193 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 76.2 x 96.8 mm
Compression: 9.0:1
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.

Performance

Top speed: 150.0 km/h (93.2 mph)

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1520 mm
Overall length: 2275 mm
Seat height: 688 mm
Dry weight: 228.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 17.40 litres
Ground clearance: 112 mm

Chassis & suspension

Rake (fork angle): 30.1°
Trail: 119 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc
Front brakes diameter: 292 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc
Rear brakes diameter: 292 mm
Front tyre: 90/90-21
Rear tyre: 150/80-16

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	1998	2000	2002	2004	2007
Capacity	883 cc	883 cc	883 cc	883 cc	883 cc
Dry weight	228 kg	228 kg	228 kg	255 kg	256 kg
Seat height	688 mm	688 mm	688 mm	668 mm	711 mm
Fuel capacity	17.4 L	17.4 L	17.4 L	17.4 L	17 L