Harley-Davidson's Sportster XL 883L SuperLow - Rode Test
Maverick - Apr 12, 2011

Intro and First Impressions:

The Sportster family’s XL 883L SuperLow, among the utility infielders of the Harley-Davidson line-up of motorcycles, is a fun and dependable ride by any standard. Whether used for a trip to the local strip mall or heading down the highway with the ‘Big Boys’; this little gem will handle any ride that comes its way. With a seat height of 25.5 inches, anyone with a height of 5 feet or taller should be able to straddle the bike and plant their feet firmly on the ground – a prerequisite to giving the operator a leg up on safely handling any motorcycle. 

There are a lot of upsides to this Sportster, not the least of which are the 55 ft. lbs. of torque, 50-52 hp, and the proclaimed 60 mpg at a time when one must stop at the bank on the way to a filling station.  

Once you are on the bike, the 563 lbs. is so well balanced, the operator feels nothing but total control. The design of the motorcycle is such that it looks simple, is easy to operate, and the operator can focus on the adventure. H-D’s characteristically clean handlebars and uniform controls lend themselves to minimal distraction from keeping your eyes on the road ahead. Only a brief glance at the centralized speedometer, turn signal and oil pressure indicators, is required to know that you are operating within speed limits, that you have signaled your intentions, and that the motorcycle’s systems are performing within normal parameters.

The XL 883L looks great, too, as you will see in the photos included in this article. 

Click here to access a video of Harley-Davidson’s version of XL 883L adventures. Then click on Video.

This XL 883L SuperLow was made available by Sun Harley-Davidson. 

Appearance: 
The model we rode was finished with premium paint and flawless chrome. It has a “walnut” low-profile fuel tank with the calligraphic Harley-Davidson name prominently displayed.   Color is a matter of personal preference, but the Merlot Sunglo really makes a statement in the bright sunshine.

Appearance Features

• Paint is Merlot Sunglo/Vivid Black. Note the bold metal flake!

• Wheels are Black Split 5 Spoke with Machined Rim
• Silver powder coated cylinders and heads topped off with polished rocker covers
• Hand finished fuel tank
• Wires are hidden behind the features you want to see: design, color and chrome!
  

Instrumentation and Electronics:

The heavy lifting of motorcycle operation, i.e., wiring harness and electronics used to operate the motorcycle and assure efficient operation of the motorcycle’s systems, is hidden. The entire wiring harness is routed out of sight and essentially camouflaged by the inviting surface features of the motorcycle, e.g., fuel tank, engine, side panels, chrome, and paint.

Instrumentation Features

• Light indicators include: left and right turn signal, high-beam, oil pressure light, and neutral indicator
• Controls are intuitive following the standard set for all Harley-Davidson motorcycle.
• Turn signals are self-canceling as determined by speed and angle of the motorcycle

Performance and Handling:

The combination of power and light weight (563 lbs) makes for an agile ride. Feel the power from the moment you roll on the throttle, and you are soon pushing the speed limit whether on urban streets, rural roadways, or rolling along an interstate. The XL 883L SuperLow is a Sportster and riding it is a sport.   Typical maneuvers: starting, stopping, and turning are easy due to the combination of low riding position, low center of gravity, power at low revolution, light weight, and configuration of frame, fork angle, rake and length.

Performance and Handling Features:

• Air-cooled, Evolution engine – rubber mounted – 53.9 cu.inches/883 cc producing 50 to 52 hp and 55 ft. lbs of torque at 3500 RPM.
• Electronic fuel injection
• Lightweight front forks and triple clamps
• 18 inch front wheel for smooth ride

• 17 inch rear wheel
• Light weight low-speed maneuverability
• Narrow frame

The operator of the Sportster XL 883L SuperLow sits upright and in a relaxed position providing an unencumbered view of the road ahead and surrounding environment. Accelerate and operator settles into a low bucket seat to focus on guiding the bike in the direction you want to go, i.e., operating the motorcycle. 

Comfort Features:

• Low bucket seat at 25.5 inches
• Longer travel rear suspension
• Easy grip handlebar
• Mid-mounted controls
  

Final Comment:

The Sportster XL 883L is as agile as a gazelle, surefooted as a mountain goat, and endures like a pack mule. It is loads of fun!

You have everything needed right from the showroom floor. But you can add a security system with hands-free fob for an additional $370.  

Harley-Davidson, understanding that riders like to personalize their rides, has hundreds of accessories from which to choose to make your Sportster XL 883L SuperLow one of a kind.   By adding a favorite accessory from time to time, the SuperLow will feel like new for many miles.

Prices vary so you want to check with a Harley-Davidson dealer, but you can expect MSRP to be in the neighborhood of $8,499 for Two-Tone, and $7,999 (black) to $8,289 (color).

In the unlikely event that your SuperLow has a factory defect, it comes with a 2-year unlimited mileage warranty.

Ride On…Ride Safe!!