🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Harley-Davidson

Model:

XL 883L Sportster 883 Low

Year:

2008

Engine Code:

Evolution V-Twin (883cc)

Chassis Code:

XL

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Entry-level to mid-range cruiser motorcycle, known for its accessible ergonomics and iconic Sportster styling.

Competitors:

Competed with models like the Indian Scout, various Japanese cruiser offerings from Honda, Yamaha, and Kawasaki, as well as other Harley-Davidson models.

Ergonomics:

Lower seat height and revised rider triangle optimized for comfort and control for a wider range of riders.

Engine Character:

Characterized by the distinct Harley-Davidson V-twin rumble and torque delivery.

Styling:

Classic Sportster styling with a modern interpretation, appealing to both traditional and newer Harley-Davidson enthusiasts.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive service, maintenance, and repair

Page Count:

Estimated 500-700 pages (typical for this type of manual)

Manual Type:

Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Print (typically)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine System:

Diagnosis, repair, overhaul of the Evolution 883cc V-Twin engine, including top end (cylinder heads, valves, pushrods) and bottom end (crankshaft, connecting rods, bearings).

Fuel System:

Carburetor (Keihin CV) tuning, cleaning, and overhaul; fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel filter replacement, and diagnosis of fuel delivery issues.

Ignition System:

Ignition module, spark plugs, spark plug wires, troubleshooting ignition timing and spark generation.

Transmission And Drivetrain:

5-speed transmission, clutch operation, clutch adjustment, primary drive chain inspection and adjustment, final drive belt inspection and adjustment.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brake system maintenance, hydraulic fluid bleeding, pad replacement, caliper service, and rotor inspection.

Suspension:

Front fork (conventional) servicing, fork oil replacement, seal replacement, rear shock absorber inspection and replacement.

Electrical System:

Battery maintenance, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), starter system, lighting system (headlight, taillight, turn signals), horn, instrumentation, wiring diagrams, fuse and relay identification.

Frame And Body:

Frame inspection, body panel removal and installation, seat maintenance, fender mounting, handlebar and control lever adjustment.

Wheels And Tires:

Wheel bearing inspection and replacement, tire pressure checks, tire wear inspection, rim maintenance.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust pipe and muffler inspection, gasket replacement, troubleshooting exhaust leaks.

Preventative Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance tasks, lubrication points, inspection checklists, fluid level checks and changes.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault codes (if applicable), symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, cleaning, inspection, reassembly, and installation.

Adjustment Procedures:

Detailed instructions for adjusting clutch, throttle cables, brakes, and suspension settings.

Rebuild Instructions:

Instructions for complete engine, transmission, and carburetor rebuilds.

Depth Of Information:

Highly detailed, covering everything from basic owner maintenance to full engine and transmission overhauls, suitable for professional mechanics and serious DIY enthusiasts.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Includes information on diagnosing electrical issues, fuel delivery problems, and mechanical failures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Typically provided as a physical printed manual. If digital, often a PDF.

Print Quality:

High-quality printing with clear diagrams and illustrations.

Binding Type:

Comb binding or perfect binding (common for service manuals for durability and ease of use).

Paper Type:

Durable, possibly coated paper to withstand workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, Evolution V-twin

Displacement:

883cc (53.9 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

3.00 in. x 3.80 in. (76.2 mm x 96.8 mm)

Compression Ratio:

8.8:1

Horsepower Est:

Approximately 55-60 HP (at crank, estimated for 2008 model)

Torque Est:

Approximately 53-55 ft-lbs (at crank, estimated for 2008 model)

Fuel Delivery:

Mikuni HSR42 or Keihin CV (Constant Velocity) carburetor

Fuel Capacity:

3.1 gallons (11.7 L)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, 91 octane or higher (recommended)

Oil Capacity:

3.0 US qt (2.8 L) with filter change

Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson 20W-50 SYN3 (or equivalent V-Twin motorcycle oil)

Oil Filter Part Number:

63796-77A (common for Sportster models, verify for specific VIN)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed constant mesh

Primary Drive:

Duplex chain

Final Drive:

Belt drive

Clutch Type:

Wet, multi-plate

Transmission Oil Type:

Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission & Primary Chaincase Lubricant (or equivalent)

Transmission Oil Capacity:

Approximately 24 fl oz (0.7 L)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

85.7 in. (2177 mm)

Width:

32.5 in. (825.5 mm)

Height:

44.3 in. (1125 mm)

Wheelbase:

59.8 in. (1520 mm)

Ground Clearance:

4.4 in. (112 mm)

Seat Height:

26.3 in. (668 mm) (unladen)

Dry Weight:

Approximately 505 lbs (229 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

930 lbs (422 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Certification:

Meets applicable DOT standards.

Brakes:

Front: Hydraulic disc, 11.5-inch rotor. Rear: Hydraulic disc, 11.5-inch rotor.

Tires:

Front: MT90B16 72H. Rear: 150/80B16 77H.

Lighting:

Halogen headlight, LED taillight, amber lens front and rear turn signals.

Chassis Design:

Steel frame and swingarm for structural integrity.

💡 Technology Features

Instrumentation:

Analog speedometer, tachometer (optional on some trims), odometer, trip meter, and indicator lights for oil pressure, neutral, turn signals, high beam, and security system (if equipped).

ABS Availability:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on some 2008 Sportster models, including the XL 883L.

Security System:

Factory-installed H-D Smart Security System with hands-free fob was often an option.

🔧 Maintenance

First Service:

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

Subsequent Service:

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

Engine Oil Change:

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

Primary Chain Adjustment:

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

Belt Drive Tension:

Check at every service interval

Engine Oil Spec:

Harley-Davidson 20W-50 SYN3 motorcycle oil

Transmission Oil Spec:

Harley-Davidson Formula + Transmission & Primary Chaincase Lubricant

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 4 (or as specified by Harley-Davidson for the specific brake system)

Fork Oil Spec:

Typically a 15W or 20W fork oil (refer to manual for exact type and quantity)

Common Wear Items:

Clutch plates, brake pads, wheel bearings, primary chain, rear drive belt, fork seals can be common wear items over time.

Carburetor Tuning:

Keihin CV carburetors may require periodic adjustments or cleaning for optimal performance.

Electrical Connections:

Corrosion or loosening of electrical connections can sometimes lead to intermittent issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Harley Davidson Legacy:

Harley-Davidson, founded in 1903, is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer with a rich history of producing V-twin engines and legendary motorcycles.

Sportster Lineage:

The Sportster model line, first introduced in 1957, is one of Harley-Davidson's longest-running and most successful platforms, evolving through numerous engine displacements and styling variations.

Xl 883L Introduction:

The 'L' designation (Low) signifies a model specifically designed with a lower seat height and more accessible ergonomics, introduced to broaden the appeal of the Sportster line.

Manufacturing Location:

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA

Production Years:

The XL 883L model was produced for several years, with the 2008 model representing a specific iteration within its development cycle.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Reputation:

The Harley-Davidson Sportster line consistently receives recognition for its iconic status, customizable nature, and riding experience.