Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster SuperLow 2012 - Specifications & Review

Article Complete Info
| Articleid | 969989 |
|---|---|
| Category | Custom-cruiser |
| Make | Harley-Davidson |
| Model | XL883L Sportster SuperLow |
| Price | US$ 7999. Euro 8295. UK £ 6599. Prices depend on country, taxes, accessories, etc. |
| Year | 2012 |
Chassis, Suspension, Brakes & Wheels
| Frametype | Mild steel, tubular frame; circular sections; cast junctions |
|---|---|
| Frontbrakes | Single disc. Dual-piston |
| Frontbrakesdiameter | 292 mm (11.5 inches) |
| Frontsuspension | 39 mm Showa® |
| Fronttyre | 120/70-ZR18 |
| Rake | 31.1° |
| Rearbrakes | Single disc. Single-piston |
| Rearbrakesdiameter | 260 mm (10.2 inches) |
| Rearsuspension | Mild steel, rectangular tube section, stamped junctions, MIG welded swing-arm. Coil-over; preload dual-adjustable shocks. |
| Reartyre | 150/60-ZR17 |
| Seat | Solo seat with deep bucket shape |
| Trail | 145 mm (5.7 inches) |
| Wheels | Black, Split 5-Spoke with Machined Rim |
Engine & Transmission
| Borexstroke | 76.2 x 96.8 mm (3.0 x 3.8 inches) |
|---|---|
| Clutch | Multi-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath |
| Compression | 8.9:1 |
| Coolingsystem | Air |
| Displacement | 883.32 ccm (53.90 cubic inches) |
| Driveline | Chain primary drive, 57/34 ratio |
| Enginedetails | V2, four-stroke |
| Enginetype | Air-cooled, Evolution®. Silver, powder-coated engine with polished covers. |
| Exhaustsystem | Chrome, staggered, shorty exhaust with dual mufflers |
| Fuelconsumption | 4.61 litres/100 km (21.7 km/l or 51.02 mpg) |
| Fuelsystem | Injection. Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Greenhousegases | 107.0 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission) |
| Lubricationsystem | Dry-sump |
| Torque | 74.58 Nm (7.6 kgf-m or 55.0 ft.lbs) @ 3500 RPM |
| Transmissiontypefinaldrive | Belt |
Other Specifications
| Coloroptions | Vivid Black, Ember Red Sunglo, Midnight Pearl/Cool Blue Pearl, Birch White/Sunburst Red |
|---|---|
| Electrical | Sealed lead acid battery, maintenance-free, 12V, 12 amp/hour, 200 cca. |
| Factorywarranty | 24 months, unlimited mileage. |
| Instruments | Handlebar-mounted electronic speedometer with odometer, time-of-day clock, dual tripmeter, low fuel warning light, low oil pressure light, engine diagnostics readout, LED indicator lights |
| Light | High beam, neutral, low oil pressure, turn signals, engine diagnostics, low fuel warning, low battery, security system (optional) |
| Starter | Electric |
Physical Measures & Capacities
| Dryweight | 243.1 kg (536.0 pounds) |
|---|---|
| Fuelcapacity | 17.03 litres (4.50 gallons) |
| Groundclearance | 97 mm (3.8 inches) |
| Oilcapacity | 2.60 litres (0.17 quarts) |
| Overalllength | 2,187 mm (86.1 inches) |
| Seatheight | 648 mm (25.5 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Weightincloilgasetc | 255.4 kg (563.0 pounds) |
About Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster SuperLow 2012
Introducing the 2012 Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster SuperLow, a motorcycle that elegantly bridges the gap between classic cruiser styling and modern performance. Positioned as a custom-cruiser, the SuperLow is designed for riders who desire a laid-back ride without compromising on the iconic Harley experience. With a price point starting at $7,999 in the U.S. (or equivalent in Europe and the UK), it’s an excellent entry into the world of Harley-Davidson for both seasoned riders and newcomers alike. With its lower seat height and approachable handling, the SuperLow is perfect for urban commuting or weekend adventures on winding roads.
At the heart of the SuperLow is a robust 883cc V2 engine, delivering a smooth and powerful ride. With a torque output of 74.58 Nm at 3,500 RPM, this bike offers ample low-end grunt, perfect for those stop-and-go city streets or cruising down the highway. The electronic sequential port fuel injection (ESPFI) ensures precise fuel delivery, enhancing both performance and efficiency—averaging an impressive 51.02 mpg. Coupled with a 5-speed gearbox and a belt-driven final drive, the SuperLow presents a seamless riding experience, making it both agile and enjoyable on various terrains.
The SuperLow isn't just about performance; it also boasts a range of thoughtful features designed for rider comfort and convenience. The mild steel tubular frame ensures strength without adding unnecessary weight, contributing to an overall weight of just 243.1 kg (536.0 lbs). The seat height of 648 mm (25.5 inches) allows for easy handling, making it accessible for riders of all sizes. Additionally, the 39mm Showa front forks and adjustable rear shocks enable a customizable ride that can adapt to different styles and preferences. With a fuel capacity of 17.03 liters (4.5 gallons), you can confidently embark on longer journeys without frequent stops.
Pros:
- Accessible Seat Height: At 25.5 inches, the low seat height makes it easy to ride for both shorter and taller riders.
- Impressive Fuel Efficiency: With 51.02 mpg, the SuperLow helps you go the distance without frequent fuel stops.
- Iconic Harley Styling: The classic look and feel of the Harley-Davidson brand are perfectly captured in this model.
Cons:
- Weight: At 536 lbs, the SuperLow may feel heavy for some riders, especially during low-speed maneuvers.
- Limited Performance Upgrades: As a more entry-level model, it may lack the performance tuning options available on higher-end Sportster models.
- Single Disc Brakes: While adequate for city riding, some riders may prefer the enhanced stopping power of dual disc setups found on sportier models.
In summary, the 2012 Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster SuperLow offers an exciting blend of style, comfort, and performance, making it a standout option in the custom-cruiser category. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned enthusiast, this bike is designed to provide an authentic Harley experience that’s accessible and enjoyable.
