🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

Sportster 883 Low

Year:

2008

Engine Type:

V-Twin, Air-Cooled, Evolution

Vin Decoder Info:

Refer to the manual for specific VIN decoding conventions for 2008 Harley-Davidson models.

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Cruiser Motorcycle Segment

Target Audience:

Owners and independent repair shops seeking detailed service information for the Harley-Davidson Sportster 883 Low.

Competitor Manuals:

Directly competes with official Harley-Davidson service manuals and other aftermarket repair guides for the Sportster platform.

Value Proposition:

Provides essential technical data and procedures for maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing the 2008 Sportster 883 Low, empowering users to perform their own maintenance or understand complex repairs.

Content Focus:

Practical, hands-on repair and maintenance guidance.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service, maintenance, and troubleshooting for Harley-Davidson Sportster 883 Low 2008.

Secondary Coverage:

Repair procedures, diagnostic guidance, specifications, and component identification.

Estimated Pages:

Likely 500+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals).

Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine assembly, disassembly, lubrication, cooling system, fuel delivery, ignition system, exhaust system, carburetor (likely Keihin CV40 or similar).

Transmission:

Gearbox, clutch, primary drive, final drive, gear shift mechanism.

Chassis:

Frame, suspension (front forks, rear shocks), steering, wheels, tires, brakes (front and rear), braking system components.

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, lighting system, battery, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), ignition switch, starter motor, instruments, gauges, indicators, horn.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel filter, fuel shut-off valve, carburetor tuning and troubleshooting.

Bodywork:

Fenders, fuel tank, seat, handlebars, controls, fenders, minor body components.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, chain lubrication and adjustment, brake fluid replacement, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement, battery maintenance.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts for common performance issues, electrical faults, starting problems, braking issues, and fuel system malfunctions.

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly for all major systems.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair or diagnostic procedures.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes torque specifications, tolerances, and diagnostic data.

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

High-resolution, searchable PDF with clear text and images.

Printable:

Printable, allowing users to print specific sections or the entire manual.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

Evolution V-Twin (Air-Cooled)

Displacement:

883 cc (53.9 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

3.00 in x 3.75 in (76.2 mm x 95.25 mm) - typical for 883 Evolution.

Compression Ratio:

Typically 9.0:1 or similar for this era.

Horsepower:

Estimated 50-55 HP (varies based on specific tuning and conditions).

Torque:

Estimated 53-55 ft-lbs @ 3500 RPM (varies).

Fuel Delivery:

Carbureted (likely Keihin CV40 or similar)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, 91 octane (R+M)/2 or higher recommended.

Ignition Type:

Electronic Ignition System

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-Speed Constant Mesh

Clutch:

Wet, Multi-plate Clutch

Primary Drive:

Plated, Heavy-Duty Rubber-Mounted

Final Drive:

Carbon Fiber Belt Drive

Gear Ratios:

Specific gear ratios will be detailed in the manual for accurate performance analysis and troubleshooting.

Transmission Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific Harley-Davidson transmission lubricant specifications (often a specialized gear oil or primary lubricant).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 88.8 inches (2255 mm)

Width:

Approx. 36.5 inches (927 mm) at handlebars

Height:

Approx. 45.5 inches (1156 mm) at handlebars

Seat Height:

Approx. 25.5 inches (648 mm) (Low model specific)

Dry Weight:

Approx. 536 lbs (243 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Refer to manual for specific GVWR.

Front Tire:

MT90B16 72H

Rear Tire:

150/80B16 77H

Wheel Type:

Laced Steel Wheels (typical)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

N/A (Hub-mounted)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

Motorcycles are not typically rated by organizations like NHTSA or IIHS for crash safety in the same manner as cars. Safety is primarily based on rider control and vehicle design.

Braking System:

Front and rear disc brakes with dual-piston calipers. ABS was not standard on this model, but may have been an option.

Lighting:

Headlight, tail light, brake light, turn signals.

Frame Construction:

Steel cradle frame designed for stability.

Rider Ergonomics:

Low seat height and forward-mounted foot controls contribute to rider confidence and control, particularly for shorter riders.

💡 Technology Features

Instrumentation:

Analog speedometer, tachometer (optional or integrated), odometer, trip odometer, fuel gauge (on some models), warning lights.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on some 2008 Sportster models. Manual will detail its operation and service if equipped.

Connectivity Features:

No advanced infotainment or connectivity features (e.g., Bluetooth, smartphone integration) are present on this model as it predates widespread adoption in motorcycles.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 2,500-5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for exact recommendation.

Primary Chain Tensioner:

Check and adjust as needed at recommended intervals (e.g., every 5,000-10,000 miles).

Spark Plugs:

Inspect and replace as needed, typically every 10,000-15,000 miles.

Brake Fluid:

Replace every 2 years or as per manual recommendations, typically DOT 4.

Engine Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson 20W-50 SYN3 or equivalent API SG or higher motorcycle-specific oil.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 3.0 US quarts (2.8 liters) with filter change.

Primary Chain Case Oil:

Harley-Davidson primary chain lubricant or equivalent. Capacity approx. 2.8 US quarts (2.6 L).

Transmission Oil:

Harley-Davidson transmission lubricant or equivalent. Capacity approx. 1.0 US quart (0.95 L).

Primary Chain Tensioner Wear:

Wear or failure of the automatic primary chain tensioner is a known common issue on many Evolution Sportsters, potentially leading to chain slap and noise. Manual provides inspection and replacement procedures.

Carburetor Tuning:

Carburetors can require periodic adjustments for optimal performance, especially with changes in altitude or air filter/exhaust modifications. Manual details tuning procedures.

Regulator Rectifier Failure:

Though less common than on earlier models, regulator/rectifier issues can occur, impacting charging system performance. Manual aids in diagnosis.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Legacy:

Harley-Davidson has a long and storied history in motorcycle manufacturing, with the Sportster line being one of its most iconic and enduring models since its introduction in 1957.

Sportster Lineage:

The Sportster 883 Low is part of the evolution of the Sportster platform, which has seen numerous engine and chassis updates over the decades. The 'Low' designation signifies specific chassis and suspension tuning for a more accessible riding position.

Manufacturing Location:

Typically manufactured in the United States (e.g., Milwaukee, Wisconsin).

Model Significance:

The 2008 model represents a mature iteration of the Evolution engine Sportster, known for its reliability and classic Harley-Davidson feel.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Awards:

Specific awards for the 2008 Sportster 883 Low are not readily available in general automotive databases. However, the Sportster line has consistently been recognized for its styling, performance, and customization potential within the cruiser segment.

Consumer Ratings:

Owner reviews and ratings for the 2008 Sportster 883 Low generally highlight its comfortable riding position, iconic styling, and the distinctive Harley-Davidson riding experience. Reliability is generally good when properly maintained.

Certification Standards:

Manufactured to meet all applicable federal emissions and safety standards for motorcycles in the United States for the 2008 model year.