Scoresheet
5
4
4
4
5
5
5
5
5
Harley likes to make noise about looks and heritage but what I found in the XL883L was a good basic standard bike (albeit with higher bars). As with all Harleys I had to change a few things and added a touring seat, passenger backrest and luggage rack, all from the Harley catalogue.
Handling is good. Although heavy, this bike is more stable in crosswind than anything I have ever ridden before (I previously owned mostly Hondas). Harleys are just different motorcycles from typical metric bikes and have a different feel. Within a few hours in the saddle you begin to like that feel though.
Compared to metric bikes the transmission is still chunky, like a good Harley should be, without being obnoxiously so.
I've owned mine for about 1.5 years. I would buy one again if it were totaled, but I would seriously think about the XR1200.
Scoresheet
4
3
4
4
4
5
4
5
4
my last sportster was a 1993 model.WHAT A DIFFERENCE! the new one has lots more power,starts up right away with no fiddling with the choke,and drives away right now,with no problems.the suspension is rather harsh when new---hopefully,it will break in with a few miles on it.the bike handles well,the transmission shifts smoothly and without a loud clunk i have been used to in other harleys.the controls are well laid out,but H-D needs to make the turn signal indicators larger and a different color than green(possibly yellow),so they show up better in sunlight.the brakes are adequate,with a good feel on both hand and foot.components and paint are first rate--chrome is outstanding,as is the matte finish on the engine.with hydraulic lifters,fuel injection,rubber mounted engine and a belt drive,i expect this new sportster to be FAR more reliable and trouble free than those of the past.all in all,a GOOD value for someone wanting an entry level H-D.with a seat height less than 26 inches,the XL883L should fit the most inseam challenged rider.
