Harley-Davidson Sportster 883 Iron XL883N: All You Need to Know

Table of Contents

1. At first Glance
2. History of the Iron 883:
3. Harley Davidson Sportster 883 Iron XL883N Buyer’s Guide
4. Pricing
5. Detailed Specifications
6. Aftermarket Luggage and Modification Options for Sportster Iron 883:

1. At first Glance

Harley-Davidson Sportster 883 Iron XL833N or simply, the 883, is undoubtedly one of the most iconic motorcycles in the world.

Featured on screens, launched for military, law enforcement and civilian use while having gone through numerous changes and makeovers, the 883 has managed to retain its classic status and the utmost notoriety among riders and non-riders alike.

Though not really the best beginner cruiser bike for newbies to hop on for their first time, the 883 is great for anyone with a few years of riding experience, and a delight for those who appreciate the roar and the ergonomic performance of a Harley bike.

Like all Harleys, the 883 also features the Harley roar that makes the bike’s presence known from miles away, making it a huge problem for neighborhoods that like peace and quiet.

The most recent 2022 Sportster 883 comes with an all-blacked-out 883cc fuel-injected air-cooled Evolution V-Twin engine, wheels, frame and the exhaust with covers making sure to give the bike the beastly aesthetic.

The only sad part about the 2022 Sportster 883 is that it’s no longer a <USD 10,000 bike since its price has finally reached $10,749. Before, it was the pride and joy of countless motorcycle enthusiasts who looked for a cool bike to ride around the city.

Although compared to the market, the price hike could be argued to be substantially lower, the fact remains that the jump will render many unable to realize their dream of owning a brand new Sportster 883 Iron. Nevertheless, none can argue that the Sportster 883 Iron XL833N is

2. History of the Iron 883:

One of the most common questions people have regarding the 883's name is the meaning of the letters "XL"

So, what does XL mean for Harley Davidson?

To be blunt, XL is the production code used by Harley for the Sportster lineup.

5 years before the Sportster was first produced in 1957, Harley launched Model K Sport and Sport Solo motorcycles K, KK, KH, KHK respectively through 1952-56.

These bikes were the first civilian motorcycles by the company to feature hydraulic shock absorbers on the front and rear wheels.

The major difference between Sportsters and their predecessors was the replacement of flathead or sidevalve engines with the overhead valve modern variant.

Though a revolutionary start to something that has lasted for almost a century now, the first Sportster bikes didn’t have much else set them apart from their previous generations.

The original engine of the Sportster bikes was the Ironhead engine which had to be replaced in 1986 with the Evolution engine, which was yet another remarkable moment in the Sportster’s history.

Until 1991, all Sporsters had four speeds. This was the year Harley gave 5-speed transmissions in the lineup.

However, it was in 2003 that the idea of mounting the engine directly into the frame to make the bike’s handling a little more precise was dropped on account of the vibrations that were delivered to the rider.

Celebrating its 100th anniversary, Harley launched a few limited anniversary edition Sportster models distinguished by their accent paint schemes and plaques that were attached to the engine, speedometer and the sheet metal. These limited edition bikes are still in the market but can be very costly due to their rarity.

3. Harley Davidson Sportster 883 Iron XL883N Buyer’s Guide

3.1. How comfortable is a Harley Sportster Iron 883 compared?

Depending upon what you’re comparing it with, the Sportster can be the ideal companion for short-distance rides as compared to other street options while also being fairly good for medium-distance trips.

Many may argue that with enough additional equipment and aftermarket alternatives, you can make a Sportster Iron 883 one of the most comfortable rides ever but that would be far from the story that persists with the stock version of the bike.

The design of the bike was made to appeal to youngsters and style enthusiasts who prefer the classy and sleek look for their rides.

While the seat is lowered to make it easier for people with shorter heights to be able to drive the bike, many claim that the seat could be better such as Harley’s own sundowner.

However, if you’re looking to make state-wide distance trips and expect the Sportster to be as comfortable as a tourer, you've got another thing coming.

3.2. How reliable is a Harley Davidson 883 engine?

The last noticeable change made to the 883’s engine was made to abide by Europe’s latest emission standards, however, that hasn’t in any way affected the reliability of the 883 engine which, ever since its overhead Evolution construction, hasn’t had a reputation for breaking down.

Though some might argue that it’s a bit too powerful, none can say it breaks down and causes a ruckus no matter how long a time you’ve ridden the bike.

3.3. Is the Harley Davidson Iron 883 a good bike for beginners?

A good beginner bike would be 650ccs or less because the power difference is too great for a newbie to get a grasp of. Though not a good bike for complete beginners, the Sportster 883 is certainly one of the best Harleys to try if you’re itching to get a taste of the brand.

3.4. Why is the Harley Davidson Sportster considered a girl's bike?

It’s probably the low-height seats offered by Harley Davidson that make some people think that perhaps this isn’t the most ‘manly’ Harley out there. However, in terms of power, street compatibility and overall performance, the Sportster is not to be underestimated. The low-rider compatibility is designed to fit any human being who has a short or smaller than 5-6ft height.

3.5. Can I use the Iron 883 for touring?

The Sportster 883 is good for in-city driving and short-medium distance trips. However, for touring, it’d be foolish to think you can ride the Sportster out across state lines because not only will the discomfort get to you, but you’ll also find the straightforward engineering and lack of technological features to be discouraging. Although it’s not impossible to find people equipping a Harley Sportster with sissy barsand taking them for rallies.

You would do well to get a CVO or another Tourer or cruiser motorcycle that has been designed to deliver long-term comfort and features that support long-term outdoor travel.

Although it’s true that many riders take their Sportster bikes across the country for rallies, it’s not the ideal scenario for your back or the rest of your body. Unless you’re absolutely sure that the bike has caused no problems and you can do it, don’t go for a really long trip.

3.6. Can I use iron 883 for daily use?

Yes! The 883 Iron is ideal for daily commuting in and around the city. In fact, there aren’t many other Harley models that have been specifically designed to appeal to street riders more than the Sportster.

Not only is the aesthetic made for the street but the performance itself has been fine-tuned to deliver peak control to the rider, making the experience not only exciting but also thrilling, amazing and enjoyable.

You can even attach luggage options like saddlebags, swing arm bags for Harley 883 Iron XL883N, and carry along stuff with you wherever you go.

Not only will this prove significantly convenient, but you’ll also appreciate the stylistic aesthetic that comes with soft leather-covered panniers.

3.7. Is the 2020 Harley Iron 883 a good purchase?

Considering the 2022 model just climbed the 10-grand bracket, it’d be plausible to consider buying a 2020 or older model if you can’t seem to find the extra cash. Though you would be missing out on the choice of the three new sexy colors, you won’t have to worry much about the bike’s engine or performance being compromised due to use.

Depending upon what kind of a deal you can land, there are several options in the market for different types of customized, modified, repaired and even untouched limited editions available all around.

You’ll have ample choices to choose from but just make sure that you have a certified Harley inspection to make sure that you’re not getting ripped off. If there’s serious damage or repairs made to the bike, you’ll know.

4. Pricing

Color	$10.749
ABS	$819
Security	$415
California Emissions	$100
Freight	$450
Surcharge	$500

5. Detailed Specifications

5.1. Engine:

Engine
ENGINE	Air-cooled, Evolution
BORE	3 in.
STROKE	3.811 in.
DISPLACEMENT/td>	53.9 cu in
COMPRESSION RATIO	9:01
FUEL SYSTEM	Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
EXHAUST	Black exhaust headers and black mufflers

What is the horsepower of a Harley-Davidson Iron 883?

Harley’s Iron 883 can deliver a horsepower of almost 49 with 54 lb-ft of torque. However, if you’re thinking of getting a cruiser bike, read this.

How many miles per gallon does a Harley-Davidson 883 get?

As per the company’s given specifications, the Harley-Davidson 883 Sportster XL883N gives a hefty 51mpg.

5.2. Performance:

Performance
ENGINE TORQUE TESTING METHOD	J1349
ENGINE TORQUE	54 ft-lb
ENGINE TORQUE (RPM)	3750
LEAN ANGLE, RIGHT (DEG.)	27
LEAN ANGLE, LEFT (DEG.)	28
FUEL ECONOMY TESTING METHOD	Estimated City/Hwy
FUEL ECONOMY 5	51 mpg

5.3. Dimensions:

Dimensions
LENGTH	86 in.
SEAT HEIGHT, LADEN	25.7 in.
GROUND CLEARANCE	5.5 in.
RAKE	30
TRAIL	4.6 in.
WHEELBASE	59.6 in.
TIRES, FRONT SPECIFICATION	100/90B19 57H
TIRES, REAR SPECIFICATION	150/80B16 77H
TIRE, TYPE	Michelin Scorcher "31" front and rear

How much does a Harley-Davidson 883 weigh?

The 883 weighs a whopping 564 pounds. Although this is perhaps too much weight for beginners or even old people with smaller builds to imagine lifting but unless you let it fall over, you won’t have to. It’s one of the reasons why people prefer to buy this cruiser bike.

That’s because thanks to all the hard work put in by engineers of the company over decades and decades have finally delivered us the ideal ergonomic performance that is encapsulated in the perfect handling and riding experience offered by the 883.

5.4. Drive Train:

DRIVE TRAIN
PRIMARY DRIVE	Chain, 34/57 ratio
GEAR RATIOS (OVERALL) 1ST	10.41
GEAR RATIOS (OVERALL) 2ST	7.436
GEAR RATIOS (OVERALL) 3ST	5.531
GEAR RATIOS (OVERALL) 4ST	4.584
GEAR RATIOS (OVERALL) 5ST	3.931

5.5. Chassis and Features:

Chassis
FRONT FORK	39 mm
REAR SHOCKS	Coil-over; preload dual-adjustable
WHEELS, FRONT TYPE	Black 9 Spoke with Machined Highlights
WHEELS, REAR TYPE	Black 9 Spoke with Machined Highlights
BRAKES, TYPE	Solid, uniform expansion rotors (Floating front)
BRAKES, CALIPER TYPE	Dual-piston front, Dual-piston rear

6. Aftermarket Luggage and Modification Options for Sportster Iron 883:

There are several options for you to choose from when it comes to equipping your motorcycle for outdoor adventures. Even if you don't want to take out your 883 for a long haul, you can check out the amazing collection of motorcycle luggage and equipment such as motorcycle seats, Harley-specific motorcycle sissy bars and much more to customize the way your bike looks and feels.

One doesn't need to know much about the bike to be able to order from a store like Viking Bags which offers everything tailor-made for your specific motorcycle. Since everything has been designed for the XL883N specifically, you can be sure that the mounting hardware will come right along with your equipment. And all you'll have to do is pick the size and variant you want and screw it all in.

You can check out the inventory for Harley Sportster 883 Iron XL883N Motorcycle Saddlebags here.

Moreover, you can also go for accessories such as chrome trims, guards, graphics and decals, custom mirrors and turn signals, brake and front lights, and design your bike all the way to the last sprocket bolt. Since the market for Harley Sportster 883 Iron is huge, you can find almost everything in several designs.

For instance, if you don’t like yours, you can order a Harley Sportster Iron 883 motorcycle seat from here.

Just make sure to abide by your state laws and don’t do anything illegal and cause problems for yourself. You can even find absurd modifications such as impossible hanging bars in the market, but it doesn’t mean they’re street legal everywhere or that you should ruin your experience by trying them out on your bike.