Cruisers
2008Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster 883 Low
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The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster 883 Low is an entry-level cruiser designed for riders seeking an accessible, manageable motorcycle with authentic Harley character. Its low seat height and lightweight V-twin engine deliver excellent maneuverability and fuel efficiency while maintaining the iconic styling cruiser enthusiasts expect. Known for its affordability and reliability, it serves as an ideal platform for both new riders and those upgrading within the Sportster lineup.
- Capacity
- 883.3 ccm
- Engine
- V-Twin, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Dry weight
- 255.4 kg
- Seat height
- 668 mm
- Power
- 53.0 HP (39.0 kW)
What’s new for the 2008 Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster 883 Low
vs the 2006| Spec | 2006 | 2008 |
|---|---|---|
| Torque | 69.2 Nm (7.1 kgf-m or 51.0 ft.lbs) @ 4300 RPM | 74.6 Nm (7.6 kgf-m or 55.0 ft.lbs) @ 3500 RPM |
| Dry weight | 251.7 kg (554.9 pounds) | 255.4 kg (563.1 pounds) |
| Wet weight | 260.4 kg (574.1 pounds) | 264.4 kg (582.9 pounds) |
| Seat height | 660 mm (26.0 inches) | 668 mm (26.3 inches) |
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built primarily for relaxed street cruising and short trips rather than performance riding or long-distance touring.
- Built for
- A classic air-cooled V-twin cruiser experience with laid-back power delivery, torque-focused low-rev grunt, and a traditional Sportster feel and sound.
- Not ideal for
- Not a good fit for riders seeking high-speed performance, aggressive cornering ability, off-road capability, or extended two-up 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
- 53.0 HP (39.0 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
- 0.2075 HP/kg (dry)
- Bore x stroke
- 76.2 x 96.8 mm
- Compression
- 8.9:1
- Cooling system
- Air
- Fuel system
- Injection
- Starting
- Electric
- Valves per cylinder
- 2
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
- 2263 mm
- Seat height
- 668 mm
- Dry weight
- 255.4 kg
- Wet weight
- 264.4 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 12.50 litres
- Ground clearance
- 112 mm
Chassis & suspension
- 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-H19
- Rear tyre
- 150/80-B16
Other
- Color options
- Vivid Black, Pewter Pearl, White Gold Pearl, Dark Blue Pearl, Crimson Red Sunglo.
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 | 2008 | 2009 | 2010 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 883 cc | 883 cc | 883 cc | 883 cc |
| Dry weight | 252 kg | 255 kg | 251 kg | 251 kg |
| Seat height | 660 mm | 668 mm | 641 mm | 670 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 XL883L Sportster 883 Low?
The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster 883 Low has a Capacity of 883.3 ccm (53.90 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster 883 Low have?
The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster 883 Low has a Power of 53.0 HP (39.0 kW).
How many gears does the Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster 883 Low have?
The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster 883 Low has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
What is the torque of the Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster 883 Low?
The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster 883 Low has a Torque of 74.6 Nm (7.6 kgf-m or 55.0 ft.lbs) @ 3500 RPM.
How much does the Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster 883 Low weigh?
The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster 883 Low has a Dry weight of 255.4 kg (563.1 pounds).
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