Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Owners and independent mechanics seeking detailed information for maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing their 2005 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLH.
Competition:
Competes with other mid-size cruiser motorcycles from brands like Indian, Triumph, and Japanese manufacturers, but stands out with its iconic V-twin engine and American heritage.
Model Identity:
The 2005 Sportster XLH represents a refinement of Harley-Davidson's long-standing Sportster lineage, known for its accessible riding position, classic styling, and the distinctive Evolution V-twin engine.
Powertrain:
Engine (Evolution V-Twin), transmission (5-speed constant mesh), clutch, final drive (belt or chain depending on specific XLH variant).
Chassis:
Frame, suspension (front forks, rear shocks), steering, wheels, tires, brakes (front and rear).
Electrical:
Ignition system, starting system, charging system (alternator/stator, regulator/rectifier), lighting, instrumentation, switches, wiring diagrams, fuses, battery.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Keihin CV recommended), fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel filter.
Exhaust:
Exhaust pipes, mufflers, mounting hardware.
Bodywork And Trim:
Fenders, fuel tank, seat, handlebars, mirrors, foot controls, side covers.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil and filter changes, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement, chain adjustment, brake fluid flush.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common issues, diagnostic procedures for ignition, fuel, and electrical systems.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, brake caliper service, fork seal replacement.
Disassembly And Assembly:
Complete instructions for disassembling and reassembling all vehicle components for inspection and repair.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks and adjustments to full engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnostics, and chassis component replacement.
Engine Family:
Harley-Davidson Evolution V-Twin
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin
Displacement:
883cc (53.9 cubic inches) or 1200cc (73.2 cubic inches), depending on specific XLH model variant (e.g., XL883, XL1200).
Bore X Stroke:
For 883cc: 3.00 in x 3.80 in (76.2 mm x 96.5 mm). For 1200cc: 3.50 in x 3.80 in (88.9 mm x 96.5 mm).
Compression Ratio:
Typically around 8.8:1 for 883cc and 9.0:1 for 1200cc, but can vary slightly.
Valve Train:
Pushrod-activated, overhead valves, 2 valves per cylinder.
Horsepower:
Approx. 50-60 HP for 883cc, 65-70 HP for 1200cc (at crankshaft, may vary).
Torque:
Approx. 50-55 lb-ft for 883cc, 65-70 lb-ft for 1200cc (at crankshaft, may vary).
Carburetor Type:
Keihin CV (Constant Velocity) carburetor, typically 34mm for 883cc and 40mm for 1200cc models.
Fuel Delivery:
Gravity feed from fuel tank.
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3 US quarts (2.8 liters) with filter change.
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson recommended 20W50 motorcycle oil (check manual for specific approval codes).
Transmission Type:
5-speed, constant mesh
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate
Primary Drive:
Hyphoid gear
Final Drive:
Belt drive (48T rear sprocket, 32T front sprocket typically for 883cc) or Chain drive (depending on specific sub-model).
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios are detailed within the manual, crucial for performance tuning and troubleshooting.
Transmission Fluid:
Harley-Davidson transmission lubricant or equivalent (check manual for specific part numbers and viscosity).
Wheelbase:
Approx. 59.6 inches (1514 mm)
Seat Height:
Approx. 28.1 inches (714 mm) (unladen)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 497 lbs (225 kg) for 883cc, 505 lbs (229 kg) for 1200cc.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to VIN plate and manual for exact GVWR.
Cargo Capacity:
N/A (Motorcycle, but accessories like saddlebags can be fitted).
Crash Test Ratings:
Motorcycles are not typically rated by agencies like NHTSA in the same way as cars; safety is primarily dependent on rider skill and adherence to maintenance.
Braking System:
Dual-piston caliper front brake, single-piston caliper rear brake. ABS was not standard or widely available on this model.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, incandescent tail lamp, brake lamp, turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Steel, cradle frame designed for stability and handling.
Audio System:
N/A (No factory-installed infotainment system on this base model Sportster).
Instrumentation:
Analog speedometer, tachometer (optional on some models), odometer, trip meter, indicator lights for oil pressure, neutral, turn signals, high beam.
ABS:
Not standard on the 2005 XLH models.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 2,500 miles or 4 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for precise recommendation).
Primary Chain Tensioner Check:
Inspect and adjust at specified intervals (e.g., 1,000 miles, then every 5,000 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 10,000 miles, but consult manual for exact type and interval.
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson 20W50 Motorcycle Oil (Part No. 62600-001 recommended for current production, check manual for exact 2005 spec).
Transmission Oil:
Harley-Davidson Transmission Lubricant (Part No. 99872-03 for 5-speed, but manual specifies correct 2005 type).
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Harley-Davidson Primary Chain Case Oil (Part No. 62600-060 recommended, check manual for exact 2005 spec).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Hydraulic Fluid (check manual for specific DOT rating).
Primary Chain Tensioner:
Hydraulic tensioner can wear and fail, leading to noise and potential damage. Manual details inspection and replacement procedures.
Carburetor Tuning:
Keihin CV carbs may require periodic adjustment or cleaning for optimal performance.
Electrical Connectors:
Corrosion or loose connections can cause intermittent electrical issues.
Rear Belt Tension:
Proper belt tension is critical for longevity; manual provides adjustment guidelines.
Founding:
Harley-Davidson Motor Company, founded in 1903, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Sportster Lineage:
The Sportster model line dates back to 1957, evolving significantly over the decades, with the Evolution engine introduced in 1986. The 2005 model is part of the modern Evolution-era Sportsters.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (Various Harley-Davidson assembly plants).
Motorcycle Press:
Sportster models consistently received positive reviews from motorcycle publications for their blend of performance, styling, and customizability, though specific awards for the 2005 model year might be general to the Sportster line.
Customer Satisfaction:
Generally high customer satisfaction for Harley-Davidson motorcycles, particularly for the iconic Sportster platform.
