Segment:
Cruiser Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Harley-Davidson owners, DIY mechanics, professional motorcycle technicians.
Key Competitors 2009:
Indian Chief, Victory Kingpin, Honda Shadow, Yamaha V-Star, Kawasaki Vulcan.
Vehicle Type:
Custom Cruiser
Design Philosophy:
Retains classic Harley-Davidson styling with modern performance and features.
Manual Purpose:
To provide comprehensive technical guidance for maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting.
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, tuning, diagnostics, fuel injection (EFI) system, ignition system, lubrication system, cooling system (air-cooled components).
Transmission:
5-speed manual transmission service, clutch operation and adjustment, gearbox internal components, lubrication.
Chassis:
Frame inspection and repair, suspension system (forks, shocks), steering system, wheel bearing service, brake system (front and rear), ABS (if equipped).
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, battery and charging system, starter motor, ignition control module (ECM), fuel pump, diagnostic codes, sensor testing, instrument cluster.
Bodywork:
Body panel removal and installation, fuel tank service, seat adjustment, fenders, handlebars, mirrors, exhaust system.
Preventative Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, chain adjustment, brake fluid flush, tire pressure checks, air filter cleaning/replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for engine performance, electrical faults, starting issues, braking problems, and general operational anomalies with specific symptom-based guides.
Repair And Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake caliper service, and electrical component repair.
Assembly Disassembly:
Detailed guides for the complete disassembly and reassembly of all major vehicle components and systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic rider maintenance to advanced engine and electrical diagnostics and repairs.
Diagnostic Codes:
Coverage of Harley-Davidson diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and troubleshooting procedures.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for critical fasteners throughout the motorcycle.
Wiring Diagrams:
Full electrical system wiring diagrams with component identification.
Engine Family:
Evolution (Evo)
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 45-degree V-twin
Bore X Stroke:
3.00 in x 3.8125 in (76.2 mm x 96.8 mm)
Horsepower Est:
54 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)
Torque Est:
55 ft-lbs @ 3500 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane
Ignition System:
Electronic, high-performance ignition module
Spark Plugs:
Harley-Davidson recommended, e.g., NGK DCPR7E (check manual for exact spec)
Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine V-Twin Motorcycle Oil SAE 20W50
Oil Capacity W Filter:
3.0 US qt (2.8 L)
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety is assessed differently, focus is on design and active safety)
Braking System:
Dual-piston front caliper with 292mm disc, Single-piston rear caliper with 292mm disc.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED taillight, front and rear turn signals.
Visibility:
Mirrors, integrated turn signals.
System Type:
Basic instrument cluster (speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, indicator lights). No integrated infotainment system as standard.
Optional Audio:
Aftermarket audio systems or boom audio accessories could be installed.
ABS Availability:
Optional ABS system
Diagnostic Interface:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-II) for reading fault codes via diagnostic tool.
First Service:
1,000 miles (1,600 km) or 6 months
Subsequent Service:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months thereafter (includes oil change, filter, inspection)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km)
Belt Inspection Tension:
Check at every 5,000 mile service, adjust as needed.
Engine Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Genuine V-Twin Motorcycle Oil SAE 20W50
Primary Chain Case Fluid:
Harley-Davidson Primary Fluid or Formula+ Transmission Fluid (check manual for definitive specification)
Transmission Oil Type:
Harley-Davidson Syn3 or equivalent SAE 75W90 Synthetic Gear Oil
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific Harley-Davidson part numbers)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, brake pads, tires, fork seals, drive belt.
Potential Electrical:
Charging system components (stator, regulator) can be susceptible to wear over time; fuel pump relay issues.
Engine Performance Notes:
Some owners report minor oil weeping from base gaskets, normal for air-cooled V-twins with age.
Brand Origin:
USA, founded 1903
Brand Identity:
Iconic American motorcycle manufacturer known for its V-twin engines and cruiser styling.
Sportster Lineage:
The XL Sportster platform has a long and storied history dating back to 1957.
Xl883C Introduction:
The 'Custom' variant emerged as a popular option offering a more stylized look and often lower seat height compared to standard models.
2009 Updates:
For 2009, key updates included the introduction of Electronic Fuel Injection (ESPFI) across the range, improved braking, and potentially updated styling elements.
Manufacturing Location:
USA (Various Harley-Davidson plants)