Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson Sportster owners, mechanics, and enthusiasts.
Key Competitors Era:
Japanese cruisers of the era (e.g., Honda Shadow, Yamaha Virago, Kawasaki Vulcan), other American motorcycles.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides essential, factory-level repair and maintenance information for the 1987 Harley-Davidson Sportster, enabling self-sufficiency and cost-effective ownership.
Engines Covered:
883cc Evolution V-twin
Transmission Covered:
4-speed Constant Mesh
Chassis Covered:
Frame, suspension, brakes, wheels, steering
Electrical Covered:
Ignition, lighting, charging system, wiring diagrams
Estimated Pages:
Approximately 300-400 (typical for this era and coverage)
Type:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Engine Overhaul:
Complete disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of the 883cc Evolution engine.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Keihin Butterfly) adjustment, cleaning, and rebuilding, fuel lines, and tank.
Ignition System:
Points ignition system servicing, timing adjustment, coil testing, spark plug specifications.
Transmission And Drivetrain:
Clutch operation, primary drive inspection, gearbox maintenance, final drive belt inspection and adjustment.
Braking System:
Front and rear brake caliper service, master cylinder rebuild, brake fluid specifications, pad replacement.
Suspension And Steering:
Front fork servicing (oil change, seal replacement), rear shock absorber inspection, steering head bearing adjustment.
Electrical System:
Battery care, charging system (generator/alternator), starter motor, lighting circuits, horn, and comprehensive wiring diagrams.
Frame And Bodywork:
Frame inspection, body panel removal and installation, seat and fender mounting.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common starting, running, and electrical issues.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair (e.g., brake caliper rebuild, fork seal replacement).
Technical Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, and critical measurements.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers everything from basic rider maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed troubleshooting guides.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin, Evolution (Evo)
Displacement:
53.9 cubic inches (883 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.00 in. x 3.50 in. (76.2 mm x 88.9 mm)
Compression Ratio:
8.0:1 (typical for 883)
Valve Train:
Overhead valve (OHV), pushrod actuated
Horsepower Estimated:
Approximately 48-50 hp @ 5000 rpm
Torque Estimated:
Approximately 58-60 ft-lbs @ 3000 rpm
Carburetor:
Keihin Butterfly 34mm
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane
Certification Era:
Meets DOT and EPA standards applicable for the year of manufacture.
Braking System:
Single disc front brake, drum brake rear.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals.
First Service:
Typically 1,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first) for engine oil change, primary chain adjustment, and general inspection.
Subsequent Oil Changes:
Every 2,500-3,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended every 5,000-7,500 miles or annually.
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson 20W-50 motorcycle oil (or equivalent API SG or higher specification).
Primary Chaincase Oil:
Harley-Davidson Primary Chaincase Lubricant or 20W-50 motorcycle oil.
Transmission Oil:
Harley-Davidson Transmission Fluid SAE 60 or SAE 70W.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Rear Cylinder Overheating:
Common on air-cooled V-twins, especially in hot weather or stop-and-go traffic. Proper timing and carburetor tuning are crucial.
Carburetor Tuning:
Keihin butterfly carburetors can be sensitive to altitude and require periodic adjustment for optimal performance and fuel economy.
Primary Chain Tension:
Needs regular checking and adjustment as the chain wears and stretches.
Fork Seals:
Front fork seal leaks can occur over time and with mileage, requiring seal replacement.
Ignition Timing:
Points ignition systems require periodic inspection and adjustment of points gap and timing.
Brand Founding:
Founded in 1903, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Sportster Introduction:
The Sportster line dates back to 1957, evolving significantly over the decades. The 1986 introduction of the Evolution engine marked a major modernization.
1987 Model Year Significance:
The 1987 model year was the second year for the Evolution engine Sportster, solidifying its place in Harley-Davidson's lineup and offering a more modern platform than previous Ironhead Sportsters.
Manufacturing Location:
York, Pennsylvania, USA (and Milwaukee, Wisconsin for earlier Evolutions)
