Classic lines that haven't changed much since its inception more than 50 years ago, the Sportster's styling stood out.Harley-Davidson has cranked out its Sportster for more than 50 years now! That’s a longevity unequalled in the cruiser marketplace. We selected the Sportster 883 for our shootout because: A) it’s the only H-D model that could qualify for our sub-1000cc displacement cutoff, and, B) it sports an unbeatable price point. In fact, the 883 Low we tested is the most affordable ride in Harley’s lineup at $6999 (black) and $7289 for other colors, like our blue test bike. The ergos took some getting used to, but the Sportster won over riders with its spunky Twin. Fire up the 883 and the air-cooled mill shakes, rattles and rolls out character. The only undersquare configuration in the test, the 76.2mm-wide cylinders run up and down a 96.8mm stroke, with an 8.9:1 compression ratio.
Sportster Dyno stats:
46.6 hp @ 5,600 rpm (second-highest)
45.3 lb-ft @ 5100 rpm (third-highest)
Rear wheel dyno numbers peaked at 46.6 horsepower and 45.3 lb-ft torque, mid-pack in our test group. However, the Sporty packs a punch on the street, with the peppiest throttle feel and pleasing acceleration endearing it to our testers
Engine: 45-degree Evolution V-Twin Two Valve
Displacement: 883cc
Bore: 76.2
Stroke: 96.77
Compression Ratio: 8.9:1
Cooling: Air
Fuel Injection: Electronic Sequential Port Injection
Transmission: 5-speed
Final Drive: Belt
Front Brake: Dual 292mm disc two-piston caliper
Rear Brake: 260mm disc single-piston caliper
Front Suspsension: 39mm fork, 3.62 in travel
Rear Suspension: Dual preload adjustable shocks, 1.63 in travel
Front Tire: 100/90x19
Rear Tire: 150/80x16
Rake: 29.6
Trail: 4.6 in
Wheelbase: 60 in
Seat Height: 26.3 in
Fuel Tank: 3.3 gal
Curb weight: 572 lbs.
Dry weight: 552 lbs.
MPG: 43.67
MSRP: $6,999 (Black), $7,289 (Solids)
Warranty: 24 months
