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2004 Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster: A Warm Welcome
To The Family
It seems that everyone knows the name Harley-Davidson.
After 100 years of motorcycle making history, a Harley-Davidson stands
apart not only by its chrome infused classic styling, but also by
that sweet and distinctive Harley-Davidson sound. No other bike company
has been able to duplicate it. And then there is the “Pride”
-- the All-American pride that Harley owners of all backgrounds and
ethnicities feel as they join the family that is H.O.G. (the Harley-Davidson
Owners Group). It’s amazing how even test riding a Harley-Davidson
does indeed make you feel like a part of something big -- a part of
a new family. So how does one join the family? The 2004 XL 883 Sportster
is a great way in.
It may be the smallest of the Harley-Davidson line, but the totally
redesigned 2004 XL 883 Sportster carries with it all that is good
in Harley, and at a great price. The biggest and most welcome change
to the XL 883 is the new rubber-mounting for its XL Evolution engine.
Historically, Sportsters have been plagued with heavy vibration issues.
Finally, we can all just enjoy the ride. Also noticeable is a much
easier clutch lever for 2004. This makes for a better riding experience
when riding in cities or where there is considerable stop and go traffic.
The XL 883 is also fitted with low-rise handlebars and mid-mount foot
controls which add to the overall comfort of the bike. The seat height
is a low 27.3 inches (which is good for shorter riders) and the bike
has a dry weight of 555 lbs. -- heavy, but well balanced and not overbearing.
 
The look of the XL 883 is all Sportster! It’s
a clean and stylish machine that looks like something straight from
a custom bike shop. Stock 883s come with a silver powder coated engine
with polished covers and chrome staggered “shorty” dual
exhausts. Rounding out the look is a wide solo seat and a 3.3 gallon
fuel tank. If you haven’t figured it out yet, the XL 883 is
an all around beautiful sport bike.
Performance comes from an air-cooled 45-degree Evolution
OHV V-Twin. With 883 cubic centimeters of displacement, the engine
is smooth and power is sufficient. Those wanting a bit more on the
bottom and top ends should opt for the XL1200, but know that that
will set you back another $2000. It really depends on your requirements
and riding style, and of course your budget. Speaking of budget, this
5-speed belt-drive machine gets 57 MPG hwy and 48 MPG in the city.
Overall, the “883” is a great machine for the value.
MSRP is $6,495 plus freight and the usual taxes. The refinements for
2004, specifically the new rubber-mounted engine and the stronger
frame were long overdue. With much of the vibration gone and an easier
clutch lever, the focus now can be on what it should be, enjoying
the ride and looking good. Lastly, please remember the reason you
want to purchase a new bike, and specifically how you would like to
use your new bike. Each one fits into a class depending on what it
was designed for. The “883” is not a long distance touring
bike, nor is it a top performance bike. That being said, it is a gorgeous
and well-packaged machine that is a joy to ride, not to mention the
least expensive way to join the Harley-Davidson family.
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