Market Segment:
Entry-level to mid-range cruiser motorcycle, popular for its iconic styling, manageable power, and customization potential.
Key Competitors:
Honda Shadow series, Yamaha V-Star series, Kawasaki Vulcan series, Suzuki Boulevard series.
Design Philosophy:
Classic American V-twin cruiser aesthetics, user-friendly ergonomics, and robust, reliable engineering.
Customization Platform:
The Sportster line is renowned for its vast aftermarket support, allowing for extensive personalization.
Powertrain:
Engine, Transmission, Clutch, Final Drive
Chassis:
Frame, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Wheels, Tires
Electrical:
Ignition System, Lighting, Charging System, Starting System, Instrumentation, Wiring Diagrams
Braking System:
Front & Rear Brakes, Brake Lines, Master Cylinders, Calipers
Fuel System:
Fuel Tank, Fuel Pump, Carburetor (Keihin CV), Fuel Lines
Exhaust System:
Exhaust Pipes, Mufflers, Heat Shields
Bodywork And Trim:
Fenders, Seat, Handlebars, Controls, Body Panels, Mirrors
Routine Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Air Filter Cleaning/Replacement, Chain Adjustment (if applicable, though belt/chain drive varies), Brake Fluid Flush
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting common issues, symptom analysis, diagnostic flowcharts
Engine Repair:
Top-end rebuilds, bottom-end overhauls, valve adjustments, carburetor tuning and rebuilding
Transmission Repair:
Clutch service, gear inspection, bearing replacement
Electrical System Repair:
Component testing, wiring harness repair, troubleshooting electrical faults
Suspension And Steering Service:
Fork seal replacement, shock absorber service, steering head bearing adjustment
Brake System Overhaul:
Caliper rebuild, master cylinder replacement, bleeding procedures
Component Disassembly And Reassembly:
Step-by-step instructions for major component removal and installation
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive; covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical diagnostics and troubleshooting
File Format Details:
High-resolution PDF, searchable text, bookmark functionality for easy navigation
Print Quality:
Professional, clear diagrams, legible text suitable for printing
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital PDF Download)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital PDF Download)
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Evolution V-twin, pushrod actuated 45-degree V-twin
Displacement:
883cc (53.7 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
76.2 mm x 96.8 mm (3.00 in x 3.81 in)
Horsepower:
Approximately 50-55 HP (estimated, actual varies slightly)
Torque:
Approximately 52-55 ft-lbs @ 3500 RPM (estimated)
Fuel Delivery:
Keihin 39mm CV (Constant Velocity) Carburetor
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane recommended
Oil Capacity:
3.0 US qt (2.8 L)
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Syn3 (SAE 20W50) or equivalent V-twin specific motorcycle oil
Transmission Type:
5-speed constant mesh
Primary Drive:
Duplex chain, clutch type: Wet, multi-plate, diaphragm spring
Gear Ratios:
1st: 10.110, 2nd: 7.000, 3rd: 4.880, 4th: 3.960, 5th: 3.300 (typical ratios, refer to manual for exact specifications)
Transmission Oil Capacity:
2.2 US qt (2.1 L)
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ or equivalent V-twin transmission fluid
Crash Safety Rating:
N/A (Motorcycles are not typically rated by agencies like NHTSA in the same way as cars)
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes front and rear.
Lighting System:
Halogen headlight, LED tail light, incandescent turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Steel frame designed for stability and rider comfort.
Ergonomics:
Mid-mount controls and riser-mounted handlebars for a comfortable riding posture.
Instrumentation:
Analog speedometer, tachometer (optional), odometer, trip meter, indicator lamps (oil pressure, turn signals, high beam, neutral).
Safety Systems:
ABS was not standard or widely available on the 883 model in 2006; refer to specific bike configuration.
Electronic Features:
Basic ignition and charging system electronics. No advanced rider aids or connectivity features typical of modern motorcycles.
Initial Service:
1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months
Subsequent Service:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months thereafter, with specific checks at 2,500 miles (4,000 km) for oil and filter.
Engine Oil Spec:
Harley-Davidson Syn3 (SAE 20W50) or equivalent V-twin motorcycle oil meeting HD-SPEC-20380-04
Transmission Oil Spec:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ or equivalent V-twin transmission fluid meeting HD-SPEC-20342-01
Primary Chain Case Oil Spec:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ or equivalent V-twin transmission fluid meeting HD-SPEC-20342-01
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, brake pads, tires, spark plugs, drive belt inspection/replacement.
Potential Problems:
Carburetor tuning sensitivity, occasional charging system issues (stator/regulator), potential for oil leaks if not properly maintained. Refer to manual for specific diagnostic procedures.
Engine Oil Capacity:
3.0 US quarts (2.8 Liters)
Transmission Oil Capacity:
2.2 US quarts (2.1 Liters)
Primary Chain Case Oil Capacity:
2.5 US quarts (2.4 Liters)
Oil Filter Part Number:
Harley-Davidson 63731-37B (check for superseded numbers)
Air Filter Part Number:
Harley-Davidson 29032-00 (check for superseded numbers)
Brand Legacy:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer renowned for its V-twin engines and cruiser lifestyle.
Sportster Lineage:
The Sportster model line has been in continuous production since 1957, evolving significantly over the decades while retaining its core identity.
2006 Updates:
The 2006 model year saw improvements in areas such as ergonomics, braking, and the introduction of a new clutch lever and transmission design for smoother shifting.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (Various Harley-Davidson facilities)
