Cruisers
1987Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 883 Evolution
19 fields on record
The 1987 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 883 Evolution introduced the modern Evolution engine, making it ideal for riders seeking an accessible entry into cruiser riding. Known for its reliable air-cooled V-twin power delivery and nimble handling, this allrounder combines classic Harley styling with dependable performance suitable for both commuting and weekend cruising.
- Capacity
- 883.0 ccm
- Engine
- V-Twin, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 4-speed
- Wet weight
- 222.0 kg
- Seat height
- Not on record
Know it? Add it → - Power
- 46.0 HP (33.8 kW) @ 6000 RPM
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built for relaxed cruising and short-to-medium rides where character and sound matter more than speed.
- Built for
- A classic air-cooled Evolution Sportster that delivers the traditional Harley thumping V-twin feel with modest, easygoing performance.
- Not ideal for
- Not for riders seeking high speed, long-distance comfort, or aggressive cornering ability.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Engine
- Capacity
- 883.0 ccm
- Power
- 46.0 HP (33.8 kW) @ 6000 RPM
- Engine type
- V-Twin, four-stroke
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.2072 HP/kg (wet)
- Bore x stroke
- 76.2 x 96.8 mm
- Compression
- 9.0:1
- Cooling system
- Air
- Valves per cylinder
- 2
- Torque
- Not on record - add it
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 4-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Chain
Performance
- Top speed
- 149.0 km/h (92.6 mph)
Dimensions & weight
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Single disc
- Rear brakes
- Single disc
- Front tyre
- MJ 90-19
- Rear tyre
- MT 90-16
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 | 1986 | 1987 |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 883 cc | 883 cc |
| Fuel capacity | 8.5 L | 8.5 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 XLH Sportster 883 Evolution?
The 1987 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 883 Evolution has a Capacity of 883.0 ccm (53.88 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 883 Evolution have?
The 1987 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 883 Evolution has a Power of 46.0 HP (33.8 kW) @ 6000 RPM.
How many gears does the Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 883 Evolution have?
The 1987 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 883 Evolution has a Gearbox of 4-speed.
How much does the Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 883 Evolution weigh?
The 1987 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 883 Evolution has a Wet weight of 222.0 kg (489.4 pounds).
Shop this bike
Affiliate linksWe may earn a commission from qualifying eBay or Amazon purchases made through these links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Similar bikes
Same category, weighted similarity
1989 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 883 Standard
883 cc · 222 kg · 711 mm
1991 Harley-Davidson XLH Sportster 883 Standard
883 cc · 222 kg · 711 mm
1985 BMW R80
797 cc · 190 kg · 807 mm
1992 BMW R80
797 cc · 190 kg · 807 mm
1982 Triumph TR 7 RV Tiger
744 cc · 197 kg
1986 Yamaha XV 1000 Virago
981 cc · 235 kg
More Harley-Davidson Motorcycles
1986 Harley-Davidson FLTC 1340 (with Sidecar)
2026 Harley-Davidson Street Bob 117
2026 Harley-Davidson Sportster S
2026 Harley-Davidson Tri Glide Ultra
2026 Harley-Davidson Low Rider ST
2025 Harley-Davidson CVO Street Glide
2026 Harley-Davidson Road King Special
1987 Harley-Davidson FLHTC 1340 (with Sidecar)
Please log in or register if you'd like to leave a comment.
Own one? Add it to My Garage and write an owner review with an Owner badge.