Harley-Davidson XL Sportster vs Ducati 888 SP5 (1993)
Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Harley-Davidson XL Sportsterstacks up against the Ducati 888 SP5. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.
Spec comparison
| Spec | Harley-Davidson XL Sportster | Ducati 888 SP5 |
|---|---|---|
| Model year | 1959 | 1993 |
| Price | — | $28,000 |
| Engine | 883 cc | 888 cc |
| Horsepower | 42 hp | 118 hp |
| Torque | — | 88 Nm |
| Weight | — | 188 kg |
| Seat height | — | 30 mm |
| Fuel capacity | — | 5.0 L |
| Fuel type | petrol | petrol |
| Transmission | 4-speed | 6-speed |
| Front brakes | Expanding brake (drum brake) | Double disc. 4-piston calipers |
| Rear brakes | Expanding brake (drum brake) | Single disc. 2-piston caliper |
| Tires | 3.50-18 / 3.50-18 | 120/70-ZR17 / 180/55-ZR17 |
Harley-Davidson XL Sportster vs Ducati 888 SP5 — which should you buy?
Picking between the Harley-Davidson XL Sportster and the Ducati 888 SP5 usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Harley-Davidson XL Sportster brings 42 hp, while the Ducati 888 SP5 counters with 118 hp at 188 kg.
Our spec tables above highlight the winning number on each line. For the full rider-focused reviews including real-world fuel economy, service costs and available colors, click into either bike: