Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson owners, mechanics, enthusiasts looking for detailed repair and maintenance information
Vehicle Class:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Competitors Era:
Other V-twin cruisers from brands like Indian, and some Japanese manufacturers offering similar styling.
Bike Features:
Iconic Harley-Davidson V-twin engine, classic cruiser styling, robust build for its era
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides essential, in-depth knowledge for maintaining and repairing the 1986 Sportster, enabling DIY service and extending the motorcycle's lifespan.
Engine:
Complete engine rebuild, troubleshooting, component inspection, timing, lubrication system
Transmission:
4-speed transmission disassembly, inspection, assembly, troubleshooting, gear shifting mechanisms
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, ignition system, lighting, charging system, starting system, troubleshooting electrical faults
Fuel System:
Carburetor (likely Keihin butterfly or CV) disassembly, adjustment, troubleshooting, fuel pump (if applicable), fuel lines
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system service, hydraulic system, disc brake caliper maintenance, fluid replacement
Suspension:
Front fork service, rear shock absorber maintenance, adjustments, lubrication
Chassis:
Frame inspection, steering head bearing service, wheel bearing maintenance, swingarm service
Bodywork:
Fenders, fuel tank removal/installation, seat, fairings (if equipped), trim components
Exhaust:
Exhaust system removal, installation, gasket replacement
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, spark plug replacement, battery maintenance
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical components
Rebuilds:
Engine and transmission rebuild procedures, including detailed component specifications and tolerances
Diagnostics:
Fault finding for ignition, electrical, and mechanical systems
Adjustments:
Carburetor tuning, ignition timing adjustments, clutch and brake lever adjustments
Wiring:
Detailed instructions for re-wiring, component replacement, and electrical troubleshooting
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission overhauls
Diagnostics Level:
Advanced diagnostics and troubleshooting for complex issues
Diagrams:
Step-by-step diagrams for all procedures
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, Evolution engine
Displacement:
883cc (53.9 cu in) - Note: Product title also mentions 1100cc, which was also an option in 1986.
Bore X Stroke:
883cc: 3.15 in x 3.43 in (80.0 mm x 87.1 mm) - 1100cc: 3.44 in x 3.80 in (87.4 mm x 96.5 mm)
Compression Ratio:
883cc: Approximately 8.0:1 (varies slightly by source)
Power Output:
Approximately 50-55 hp at the crank (estimated for 883cc)
Torque Output:
Approximately 50-55 lb-ft at the crank (estimated for 883cc)
Top Speed:
Varies with rider, conditions, and gearing, but typically around 100-110 mph
Carburetor:
Single Keihin butterfly or Constant Velocity (CV) carburetor, likely 34mm or 36mm
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane minimum
Fuel Capacity:
Typically 3.5 gallons (13.2 Liters)
Length:
Approximately 88.0 inches (2235 mm)
Width:
Approximately 32.0 inches (813 mm) handlebars
Height:
Approximately 45.0 inches (1143 mm)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 465 lbs (211 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically around 800-850 lbs (363-386 kg)
Safety Ratings:
Motorcycles of this era typically did not have standardized crash test ratings like automobiles. Safety was primarily determined by rider skill and machine integrity.
Braking System:
Front disc brake, rear drum brake (standard for 1986 models)
Lighting:
Headlight, tail light, brake light, turn signals
Frame Construction:
Steel tubular frame
Suspension Design:
Telescopic front forks, dual rear shock absorbers
Oil Change:
Every 2,500-5,000 miles or annually (specific interval in manual)
Primary Chain Tensioner:
Check and adjust as needed, typically every 5,000 miles
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 10,000-15,000 miles (specific plug type and gap in manual)
Air Filter:
Inspect every oil change, clean or replace as needed
Brake Fluid:
Flush and replace every 2 years
Engine Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson recommended 20W50 or 10W40 motorcycle specific oil (check manual for exact specs)
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Harley-Davidson primary lubricant or equivalent motorcycle specific gear oil
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson transmission lubricant or SAE 85W-140 gear oil
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 brake fluid (for hydraulic front brake)
Primary Chain Tensioner Wear:
Early Evolution models had a less robust primary chain tensioner that could wear out, leading to noise and potential damage.
Carburetor Adjustment:
Carburetors can require periodic adjustment for optimal performance, especially with altitude or fueling changes.
Oil Leaks:
Common in older Harleys due to aging seals and gaskets. Manual will detail replacement procedures.
Electrical Connections:
Corroded or loose electrical connections can cause intermittent issues. Manual provides wiring diagrams for tracing.
Founding:
Founded in 1903 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Harley-Davidson is one of the oldest motorcycle manufacturers in the world.
Sportster Lineage:
The Sportster line dates back to 1957, evolving from the 'K' model. The Evolution engine ('Evo') was introduced in 1984, marking a significant update.
1986 Updates:
1986 saw the introduction of the 883cc Evolution engine as a more affordable alternative to the 1100cc. Minor cosmetic and electrical updates were also common.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (typically Milwaukee, Wisconsin or York, Pennsylvania)
