Vehicle Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Target Demographic:
Riders seeking classic styling, accessible performance, and customizability; often popular with new riders and experienced riders preferring a more relaxed riding position.
Direct Competitors:
Indian Scout, custom choppers, other metric cruisers (e.g., Yamaha V-Star, Honda Shadow, Kawasaki Vulcan) in a similar displacement class.
Sportster Low Advantage:
Lower seat height and relaxed ergonomics compared to standard Sportster models, making it more approachable for shorter riders or those preferring a laid-back posture.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides essential information for maintaining and repairing the specific XL883L model, empowering owners to perform tasks themselves, saving on dealership labor costs and ensuring proper care.
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Additional Manuals Included:
Parts Catalog, Electrical Diagnostic Manual
Estimated Page Count:
400-600 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals, exact count not specified in product info)
Format:
Likely Digital (PDF) or Printed; specified as 'Workshop Manual', often distributed digitally
Engine Systems:
Engine disassembly/assembly, lubrication, cooling, fuel system, ignition system, emissions control, starting system, charging system
Drivetrain Systems:
Clutch, transmission (gearbox), primary drive, final drive (belt or chain, depending on specific model year configuration)
Chassis Systems:
Frame, suspension (front forks, rear shocks), steering, wheels, tires, brakes (front and rear), exhaust system
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, ignition, starting, charging, battery, fuses, relays, diagnostic connectors (ECM/VCM)
Bodywork And Accessories:
Body panels, fenders, fuel tank, seat, handlebars, mirrors, minor trim components
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, air filter cleaning/replacement, brake pad inspection/replacement, tire pressure checks, chain adjustment/lubrication (if applicable)
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common starting, running, and electrical issues; error code interpretation (if applicable)
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, suspension component replacement, brake system bleeding and servicing, electrical component testing and replacement
Diagnostic Procedures:
Step-by-step guides for diagnosing electrical faults using multimeter, identifying engine performance issues, using diagnostic tools (e.g., Harley-Davidson Dealer Diagnostic Software interface for module data)
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and component rebuilds; includes detailed exploded views and torque specifications
Diagrams And Illustrations:
Extensive use of clear diagrams, schematics, and exploded views to illustrate procedures and component identification
Parts Information:
Included Parts Catalog provides OEM part numbers for most components, facilitating correct part identification and ordering
Digital File Type:
Likely PDF, optimized for searchability and printing
Illustration Clarity:
High-resolution illustrations and diagrams for clarity
Physical Manual Binding:
If printed, typically spiral-bound or perfect-bound for durability and ease of use on a workbench
Physical Manual Paper:
If printed, often on durable, coated paper resistant to shop fluids
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Evolution V-Twin
Displacement:
883 cc (53.7 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.00 in x 3.563 in (76.2 mm x 90.5 mm) (typical for Evolution 883)
Compression Ratio:
9.0:1 (typical for this era)
Horsepower Est:
Approximately 50-55 HP (peak, at crank, varies slightly by year and tuning)
Torque Est:
Approximately 55-60 ft-lbs (peak, at crank, varies slightly by year and tuning)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) for 2007-2010 models
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane recommended
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine V-Twin Motor Oil SAE 20W-50, or equivalent API CI-4 rated diesel engine oil meeting H-D specification
Oil Capacity:
3.0 US quarts (2.8 liters) with filter change
Ignition Type:
Spark ignition, electronic ignition module (often integrated with ECU/ECM)
Spark Plugs:
Typically Champion H-D 'Twin-Cam' plug series (e.g., RA8HC or equivalent) or NGK equivalent
Transmission Type:
5-speed constant mesh
Primary Drive:
Duplex chain, clutch operated
Final Drive:
Belt drive (most common configuration for XL883L of this era)
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ Transmission & Primary Chaincase Lubricant (SAE 50), or equivalent
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approximately 24 US fluid ounces (0.71 liters) for transmission; 28 US fluid ounces (0.83 liters) for primary chaincase
Wheelbase:
Approximately 60.0 inches (1524 mm)
Seat Height:
Approximately 25.3 inches (643 mm) (unladen) - Key feature for the 'Low' model
Ground Clearance:
Approximately 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 545 lbs (247 kg)
Wet Weight:
Approximately 569 lbs (258 kg) (estimated, with fluids)
Gvwr:
Approximately 932 lbs (423 kg)
Front Tire Size:
150/80B16 71H (typical for XL883L)
Rear Tire Size:
150/80B16 71H (typical for XL883L)
Front Wheel Size:
16-inch
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
N/A (cast wheels with hub mounting)
Crash Test Ratings:
Motorcycles are generally not subjected to standardized crash testing like automobiles; safety is primarily based on design and rider control.
Braking System:
Hydraulically actuated disc brakes front and rear. ABS was an optional feature on some models, but not standard for all XL883L configurations in these years.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED tail lamp and brake light, amber incandescent turn signals (typical)
Frame Construction:
Steel frame and swingarm for structural integrity
Rider Ergonomics:
Low seat and forward-mounted footpegs (typical for 'Low' model) contribute to rider confidence and control for some riders.
Instrumentation:
Analog speedometer with integrated LCD display for odometer, trip meter, clock, and gear indicator (on most models). Tachometer often optional or integrated into a separate gauge cluster.
ABS:
Optional on some configurations; not standard on all XL883L models in these years.
Diagnostic Port:
3-pin or 4-pin diagnostic connector for use with Harley-Davidson's Digital Technician or other compatible diagnostic tools to read and clear fault codes.
First Service:
1000 miles (1600 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first
Subsequent Service:
Every 5000 miles (8000 km) or 12 months
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5000 miles (8000 km) or 12 months, or more frequently under severe use
Fork Oil:
Typically SAE 15W Harley-Davidson front fork oil, or equivalent
Common Wear Items:
Clutch cable, spark plugs, tires, brake pads, drive belt (inspect for wear/damage)
Potential Electrical Concerns:
Voltage regulator or stator failure (known issues on some H-D models of this era, though less prevalent than earlier models), wiring harness chafing
Engine Performance Notes:
Carbon buildup in combustion chambers, occasional idle issues due to fuel system or sensor problems.
Harley Davidson Legacy:
Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer with a rich history in performance, customisation, and lifestyle.
Sportster Lineage:
The Sportster line, introduced in 1957, is one of Harley-Davidson's longest-running models, evolving significantly over decades while retaining its core identity. The 'Low' variant was introduced to broaden its appeal.
Xl883L Introduction:
The XL883L 'Low' model was specifically designed to offer a more accessible riding experience, featuring a lower seat and revised suspension geometry for easier handling at low speeds and for shorter riders.
Manufacturing Location:
Kansas City, Missouri, USA (for models of this era)
