🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

Sportster

Sub Model:

XL883 / XL1200

Year:

2007

Engine Code Xl883:

Evo 883cc (Evolution V-Twin)

Engine Code Xl1200:

Evo 1200cc (Evolution V-Twin)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Cruiser, Entry-Level to Mid-Range Motorcycle

Target Audience:

New riders, experienced riders seeking classic styling and accessible performance, customizers

Key Competitors:

Indian Scout, various Japanese cruisers (e.g., Yamaha V-Star, Honda Shadow, Kawasaki Vulcan)

Engine Type:

Air-cooled Evolution V-Twin

Styling:

Classic Harley-Davidson Sportster aesthetic, iconic styling

Accessibility:

Relatively low seat height, manageable weight for its class

Customization Potential:

Highly customizable platform, extensive aftermarket support

📋 Manual Details

Covered Models:

Harley-Davidson Sportster XL883, XL883 Custom, XL883R, XL1200, XL1200 Custom, XL1200L, XL1200R, XL1200S (depending on specific sub-model variants covered)

Estimated Page Count:

500+

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting, internal components, lubrication, cooling, ignition, fuel delivery, exhaust

Transmission:

Clutch, gearbox, primary drive, final drive, troubleshooting, disassembly, assembly, fluid service

Chassis:

Frame, suspension (front and rear forks, shocks), steering, wheels, tires, bearings

Brakes:

Hydraulic systems, calipers, master cylinders, brake lines, pads, rotors, bleeding procedures

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), starting system (starter motor, solenoid), lighting, ignition system, sensors, wiring diagrams, troubleshooting

Fuel System:

Carburetor (Keihin CV), fuel lines, fuel tank, fuel pump (if applicable), maintenance and tuning

Bodywork:

Body panels, fenders, seat, fuel tank removal and installation, trim, guards

Controls:

Throttle, clutch lever, brake lever, shifter, cables, controls adjustment

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, chain adjustment, lubrication points, brake fluid replacement, coolant checks (if liquid-cooled variants are present)

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical system diagnostics

Repair:

Component-level repair for all covered systems, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension repair, brake system servicing

Disassembly Assembly:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for removing and reinstalling all major components and sub-assemblies

Technical Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values, dimensional data

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete overhauls. Suitable for home mechanics and professional technicians.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchable Text:

Yes

Image Resolution:

High-resolution, clear illustrations and diagrams

Printable:

Yes

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Displacement Xl883:

883 cc (53.9 cubic inches)

Engine Displacement Xl1200:

1200 cc (73.2 cubic inches)

Engine Type:

45-degree V-twin, air-cooled, Evolution

Bore Stroke Xl883:

3.00 in x 3.562 in (76.2 mm x 90.5 mm)

Bore Stroke Xl1200:

3.49 in x 4.25 in (88.7 mm x 108 mm)

Compression Ratio Xl883:

8.8:1

Compression Ratio Xl1200:

9.0:1

Valvetrain:

Overhead valves (OHV), two valves per cylinder, pushrod actuated

Horsepower Xl883:

Approx. 53 hp @ 6000 rpm (estimated, varies by tuning and emissions)

Torque Xl883:

Approx. 57 ft-lbs @ 3200 rpm (estimated)

Horsepower Xl1200:

Approx. 66 hp @ 6000 rpm (estimated)

Torque Xl1200:

Approx. 70 ft-lbs @ 3200 rpm (estimated)

Fuel Delivery:

Carburetor: Keihin CV (Constant Velocity)

Carburetor Size Xl883:

34 mm

Carburetor Size Xl1200:

36 mm

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, 91 octane (95 RON) or higher recommended

Oil System:

Dry sump with integrated oil tank in crankcase and primary drive housing

Oil Capacity W Filter:

Approx. 3.0 US quarts (2.8 liters)

Recommended Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson SYN3 (Fully Synthetic) 20W-50 or equivalent motorcycle-specific V-twin oil meeting Harley-Davidson specifications

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed constant mesh, manual

Primary Drive:

Duplex chain, wet clutch

Final Drive:

Belt drive

Clutch Type:

Multi-plate, wet

Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios available in manual; e.g., 1st: 10.11:1, 2nd: 7.01:1, 3rd: 4.73:1, 4th: 3.72:1, 5th: 3.20:1 (typical values, confirm with manual)

Transmission Oil Capacity:

Approx. 24 US fluid ounces (0.7 liters) of Harley-Davidson Formula+ or equivalent transmission lubricant

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 87.2 in (2215 mm)

Width:

Approx. 32.5 in (825 mm)

Height:

Approx. 45.7 in (1160 mm)

Seat Height Laden:

Approx. 26.0 in (660 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 4.3 in (110 mm)

Dry Weight Xl883:

Approx. 545 lbs (247 kg)

Dry Weight Xl1200:

Approx. 550 lbs (249 kg)

Gvwr:

Approx. 963 lbs (437 kg)

Fuel Capacity:

3.0 US gallons (11.4 liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Certification:

Meets DOT requirements, compliance with relevant emissions standards

Braking System:

Hydraulic disc brakes, front and rear

Front Brake Rotor Size:

Single 292 mm (11.5 inch) disc

Rear Brake Rotor Size:

Single 292 mm (11.5 inch) disc

Front Suspension:

Telescopic forks, 39mm diameter (e.g., Showa)

Rear Suspension:

Dual shock absorbers, adjustable preload

Lighting:

Halogen headlamp, LED tail light, incandescent turn signals

Horn:

Standard single horn

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

N/A (Base models typically feature analog gauges, no integrated infotainment system)

Instrumentation:

Speedometer, tachometer (optional on some trims), odometer, trip meter, oil pressure indicator, neutral indicator, turn signal indicators, headlamp high beam indicator

ABS:

Not typically available as standard or optional equipment on this model year

Connectivity Features:

N/A (No built-in Bluetooth or smartphone integration)

🔧 Maintenance

Initial Service:

1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first

Subsequent Oil Change:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months

Belt Tension Check:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km)

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years regardless of mileage

Engine Oil Viscosity:

SAE 20W-50

Transmission Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson Formula+ or equivalent

Primary Chain Case Oil:

Harley-Davidson Formula+ or equivalent

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 Hydraulic Fluid

Common Wear Items:

Clutch plates, brake pads, tires, wheel bearings, fork seals, battery

Carburetor Tuning:

Keihin CV carburetors can require occasional tuning or rejetting for optimal performance, especially with aftermarket exhaust or air filter modifications.

Electrical Connections:

Corrosion on electrical connectors can lead to intermittent issues; regular inspection and cleaning are recommended.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Legacy:

Harley-Davidson, established in 1903, renowned for V-twin engines and American motorcycle culture.

Sportster Lineage:

The Sportster line, introduced in 1957, is Harley-Davidson's longest-running model. Known for its compact size and sporty character compared to larger Harley models.

2007 Updates:

The 2007 models received fuel injection on some models in certain markets, but the XL883 and XL1200 variants primarily retained the Keihin CV carburetor for the US market. Minor styling and component updates.

Manufacturing Location:

United States (Kansas City, Missouri or York, Pennsylvania facilities)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Recognition:

The Sportster line has consistently been recognized for its iconic styling, accessibility, and customization potential, making it a perennial favorite in the cruiser segment.

Customer Satisfaction:

Generally high customer satisfaction, particularly for riders who appreciate the classic Harley-Davidson experience and aftermarket support.

Emission Standards:

Compliant with prevailing EPA and CARB emissions standards for the model year.