Harley-Davidson XL Sportster vs Triumph Super III (1996)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Harley-Davidson XL Sportsterstacks up against the Triumph Super III. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecHarley-Davidson XL SportsterTriumph Super III
Model year19591996
Price
Engine883 cc885 cc
Horsepower42 hp115 hp
Torque89 Nm
Weight211 kg
Seat height31 mm
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission4-speed6-speed
Front brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)Dual disc
Rear brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)Single disc
Tires3.50-18 / 3.50-18

Harley-Davidson XL Sportster vs Triumph Super III — which should you buy?

Picking between the Harley-Davidson XL Sportster and the Triumph Super III usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Harley-Davidson XL Sportster brings 42 hp, while the Triumph Super III counters with 115 hp at 211 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: