Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson Sportster 883 Low owners and independent motorcycle mechanics.
Key Competitors:
Indian Scout, Triumph Bonneville, Yamaha Bolt, Honda Shadow.
Model Appeal:
Accessible entry into Harley-Davidson ownership, classic styling, approachable ergonomics for the 'Low' variant.
Benefit:
Empowers owners and technicians with the knowledge to perform maintenance, repairs, and troubleshooting, saving time and money.
Engine:
Disassembly, assembly, inspection, troubleshooting, and repair of the Evolution V-twin engine.
Transmission:
Service and repair of the 5-speed constant mesh transmission.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting of ignition, lighting, charging, and starting systems.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (likely Keihin CV) service, fuel pump operation, fuel tank and lines.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system inspection, repair, fluid replacement, and bleeding procedures.
Suspension:
Front fork service (fluid changes, seal replacement) and rear shock absorber maintenance.
Frame And Bodywork:
Frame inspection, body panel removal/installation, fender service.
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel bearing inspection and replacement, tire mounting/balancing guidelines.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacement, spark plug service, chain adjustment.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common issues and system malfunctions.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components.
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Evolution V-twin
Displacement:
883 cc (53.9 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
76.2 mm x 96.8 mm (3.00 in x 3.81 in) (typical for 883 Evolution)
Compression Ratio:
8.4:1 (typical for 883 Evolution)
Valvetrain:
OHV, 2 valves per cylinder, pushrod actuated
Horsepower:
Approx. 53-55 HP @ 6000 RPM (est. for 2007 883)
Torque:
Approx. 56-58 ft-lbs @ 3500 RPM (est. for 2007 883)
Induction:
Keihin CV (Constant Velocity) 40 mm carburetor
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane recommended
Type:
5-speed, constant mesh
Primary Drive:
Duplex chain, 1.5 in wide, 25/36 ratio
Final Drive:
Carbon belt, 25/51 ratio, 1400 mm length, 13 mm pitch
Clutch:
Multi-plate wet clutch
Transmission Fluid:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ (or equivalent spec, e.g., SAE 50W transmission oil)
Crash Test Results:
N/A (Motorcycle safety is typically assessed differently than cars; focus is on design features and component integrity as detailed in the manual).
Braking System:
Dual-piston caliper front brake, single-piston caliper rear brake.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED tail/brake lamp, front/rear turn signals.
Dashboard:
Analog speedometer, tachometer (optional), odometer, trip meter, fuel gauge, indicator lamps.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature for 2007 models. Manual will detail its function if equipped.
Bluetooth:
Not standard on this model. Aftermarket solutions are available.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Check manual for specific interval in miles/months.
Primary Chain Tension:
Check every 2,500 miles (4,000 km).
Spark Plugs:
Replace approximately every 10,000-15,000 miles (16,000-24,000 km), consult manual for exact specification and type.
Belt Drive Inspection:
Inspect belt condition, tension, and alignment every 2,500 miles (4,000 km).
Engine Oil:
Harley-Davidson SYN3 (Synthetic) SAE 20W-50 or Harley-Davidson 20W-50 motorcycle oil. Capacity approx. 3.0 US quarts (2.8 Liters) with filter change.
Primary Chain Case Oil:
Harley-Davidson Formula+ Transmission and Primary Chain Case Lubricant or equivalent (check manual for specific grade, typically SAE 50W).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4, Harley-Davidson Heavy Duty DOT 4 Brake Fluid.
Fork Oil:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Fork Oil (e.g., Type E for standard damping, Type B for softer damping). Consult manual for correct weight and quantity per fork leg.
Carburetor Tuning:
Potential for lean running from factory tuning, requiring adjustments or aftermarket jetting for optimal performance and longevity.
Starter Solenoid:
Occasional failure of the starter solenoid, leading to no crank issues.
Belt Wear:
Improper tension or alignment can accelerate belt wear.
Clutch Slippage:
Can occur with age, wear, or incorrect fluid level/type in the primary.
Founder:
William S. Harley, Arthur Davidson, Walter Davidson, William A. Davidson
Sportster Introduction:
The Sportster line was introduced in 1957 as the XL model, evolving into iconic American motorcycles.
883 Development:
The 883cc engine has been a staple in the Sportster lineup, offering a more accessible displacement than the larger 1200cc variants.
Low Variant Introduction:
The 'Low' designation indicates a factory-lowered seat height and often revised suspension for easier rider confidence and accessibility.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (York, Pennsylvania and Milwaukee, Wisconsin)
