Harley-Davidson XL 883 C Sportster Custom 2005 - Specifications & Review

Article Complete Info
| Articleid | 810756 |
|---|---|
| Category | Custom-cruiser |
| Make | Harley-Davidson |
| Model | XL 883 C Sportster Custom |
| Year | 2005 |
Chassis, Suspension, Brakes & Wheels
| Frontbrakes | Single disc |
|---|---|
| Frontbrakesdiameter | 292 mm (11.5 inches) |
| Fronttyre | MH90-21 |
| Rake | 30.1° |
| Rearbrakes | Single disc |
| Rearbrakesdiameter | 292 mm (11.5 inches) |
| Reartyre | 150/80-16 |
Engine & Transmission
| Borexstroke | 76.2 x 96.8 mm (3.0 x 3.8 inches) |
|---|---|
| Clutch | Multi-plate clutch with diaphragm spring in oil bath. |
| Compression | 9.0:1 |
| Coolingsystem | Air |
| Displacement | 883.00 ccm (53.88 cubic inches) |
| Enginedetails | V2, four-stroke |
| Exhaustsystem | Staggered shorty duals |
| Fuelsystem | Carburettor |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Torque | 69.00 Nm (7.0 kgf-m or 50.9 ft.lbs) @ 4200 RPM |
| Transmissiontypefinaldrive | Belt |
| Valvespercylinder | 2 |
Other Specifications
| Coloroptions | Vivid black, brilliant silver pearl, sierra red pearl, black cherry pearl, glacier white pearl, rich sunglo blue, yellow pearl, two-tone rich sunglo blue and chopper blue pearl, two-tone chopper blue pearl and brilliant silver pearl, two-tone sierra red p |
|---|
Physical Measures & Capacities
| Dryweight | 255.0 kg (562.2 pounds) |
|---|---|
| Fuelcapacity | 17.40 litres (4.60 gallons) |
| Groundclearance | 112 mm (4.4 inches) |
| Overalllength | 2,275 mm (89.6 inches) |
| Seatheight | 673 mm (26.5 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
About Harley-Davidson XL 883 C Sportster Custom 2005
Introducing the 2005 Harley-Davidson XL 883 C Sportster Custom, a striking embodiment of the American custom-cruiser spirit. This model stands out in Harley-Davidson's iconic Sportster lineup, appealing to riders who appreciate a blend of classic styling and modern performance. The XL 883 C is designed for those who crave a soulful riding experience, wrapped in an aesthetic that pays homage to Harley’s storied history while adding a personal touch through its customizable options. With a variety of color choices—ranging from the timeless Vivid Black to the eye-catching Two-Tone Rich Sunglo Blue—this motorcycle offers individuality and flair to every rider.
At the heart of the XL 883 C is its robust 883cc V-twin engine, delivering a gratifying torque of 69 Nm at 4200 RPM. This air-cooled, four-stroke powerhouse, with a compression ratio of 9.0:1, ensures lively acceleration and a dynamic riding experience. The 5-speed gearbox paired with a smooth belt final drive allows for seamless transitions between gears, whether you're cruising down the highway or navigating city streets. With its low seat height of 673 mm (26.5 inches), the XL 883 C offers a comfortable stance for riders of all sizes, making it an accessible choice for both seasoned motorcyclists and newcomers alike.
The 2005 Sportster Custom is not just about power; it's also equipped with features that enhance the riding experience. Its chassis is designed with a rake of 30.1°, providing stability and agility, while the single disc brakes, both front and rear, ensure reliable stopping power. The bike's weight of 255 kg (562.2 pounds) gives it a solid feel on the road, and the generous 17.40-litre (4.60 gallons) fuel tank means you can enjoy those long rides without frequent stops. Additionally, the multi-plate clutch in an oil bath offers smooth engagement, allowing for confident handling in various riding conditions.
Pros:
- Iconic Styling: The classic design and customizable options make the XL 883 C a head-turner on the road.
- Smooth Power Delivery: The V-twin engine provides a satisfying torque curve, perfect for cruising and city riding.
- Comfortable Ride: The low seat height and balanced weight distribution offer an enjoyable riding experience for various riders.
Cons:
- Limited Storage: As a custom-cruiser, the bike lacks integrated storage options, which may require additional aftermarket solutions for longer trips.
- Vibrations at High Speeds: Riders may notice increased vibrations at higher RPMs, which can affect comfort during extended highway rides.
- Basic Instrumentation: The instrumentation is straightforward but lacks advanced features like trip computers or fuel gauges that some riders might expect in modern motorcycles.
In summary, the 2005 Harley-Davidson XL 883 C Sportster Custom is a delightful fusion of style, performance, and heritage, making it a compelling choice for any motorcycle enthusiast looking to embrace the open road.
