Cruisers
2003Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster
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The 2003 Harley-Davidson XL 883R Sportster is an entry-level cruiser suited for new riders and those seeking nimble, manageable performance. Its air-cooled 883cc V-twin engine delivers accessible torque with classic Harley character, while the lightweight frame and low seat height make it ideal for city riding and customization enthusiasts.
- Capacity
- 883.0 ccm
- Engine
- V-Twin, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Dry weight
- 245.0 kg
- Seat height
- 758 mm
- Power
- 53.0 HP (39.0 kW)
What’s new for the 2003 Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster
vs the 2002| Spec | 2002 | 2003 |
|---|---|---|
| Torque | 68.0 Nm (6.9 kgf-m or 50.2 ft.lbs) @ 4000 RPM | 68.0 Nm (6.9 kgf-m or 50.2 ft.lbs) |
| Seat height | 711 mm (28.0 inches) | 758 mm (29.8 inches) |
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built for relaxed cruising, short rides, and street presence rather than outright speed or long-distance touring.
- Built for
- Delivers classic Harley V-twin thump and low-end torque with an air-cooled, carbureted charm that rewards laid-back, unhurried riding.
- Not ideal for
- Not suited for riders seeking high-speed performance, technical cornering agility, 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
- 53.0 HP (39.0 kW)
- Torque
- 68.0 Nm (6.9 kgf-m)
- Engine type
- V-Twin, four-stroke
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.2163 HP/kg (dry)
- Bore x stroke
- 76.2 x 96.8 mm
- Compression
- 9.0:1
- Cooling system
- Air
- Fuel system
- Carburettor
- Starting
- Electric
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 5-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Belt
- Clutch
- Multi-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath
Dimensions & weight
- Wheelbase
- 1510 mm
- Overall length
- 2235 mm
- Seat height
- 758 mm
- Dry weight
- 245.0 kg
- Wet weight
- 266.7 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 12.50 litres
- Ground clearance
- 154 mm
Chassis & suspension
- Rake (fork angle)
- 29.6°
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 57H
- Rear tyre
- 130/90-HB16 73H
Other
- Color options
- Racing orange
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 | 2002 | 2003 | 2008 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 883 cc | 883 cc | 883 cc |
| Dry weight | 245 kg | 245 kg | 251 kg |
| Seat height | 711 mm | 758 mm | 759 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 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 XL883R Sportster?
The 2003 Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster has a Capacity of 883.0 ccm (53.88 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster have?
The 2003 Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster has a Power of 53.0 HP (39.0 kW).
How many gears does the Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster have?
The 2003 Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster has a Gearbox of 5-speed.
What is the torque of the Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster?
The 2003 Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster has a Torque of 68.0 Nm (6.9 kgf-m or 50.2 ft.lbs).
How much does the Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster weigh?
The 2003 Harley-Davidson XL883R Sportster has a Dry weight of 245.0 kg (540.1 pounds).
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