Harley-Davidson Sportster 883 Hugger - 1996 Specifications and Reviews

The 1996 Harley-Davidson Sportster 883 Hugger is an entry-level cruiser designed for riders seeking accessible Harley ownership with authentic styling. Known for its low 27-inch seat height and nimble handling, this air-cooled V-twin excels for shorter riders and commuters seeking classic cruiser character without overwhelming performance demands.

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General information

CategoryCustom / cruiser
Year1996
ModelHarley-Davidson Sportster 883 Hugger

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Transmission typefinal driveBelt
Gearbox5-speed
Cooling systemAir
StarterElectric
Valves per cylinder2
Torque61.00
Power50.00
Stroke4
Engine typeV2
Capacity:883.00 ccm (53.88 cubic inches)
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Seat height687 mm (27.0 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Dry weight220.0 kg (485.0 pounds)
 
 

Harley-Davidson Sportster 883 Hugger dimensions and frame

Rear brakesSingle disc
Front brakesSingle disc

Speed and acceleration

Power/weight ratio0.2273 HP/kg

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

53 hp
Peak Power
6.5s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track10%
City60%
Cornering35%
Daily Riding55%
Touring30%
Passenger35%

Rider Profile

Best ForThis bike suits newer riders or returning riders who want a low, manageable cruiser without intimidating power.
PurposeIt's built for relaxed, low-speed cruising and short rides rather than performance or long-distance touring.
Rider FitThe very low seat height and low center of gravity make it easy for shorter riders to plant both feet flat and handle at a stop.
CharacterA classic, stripped-down small-displacement Harley with laid-back V-twin character and easygoing, unhurried demeanor.
Not Ideal ForThis isn't the bike for riders wanting strong highway passing power, sport-bike cornering ability, or serious off-road capability.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

1996 Harley-Davidson Sportster 883 Hugger Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 687mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 1996 Harley-Davidson Sportster 883 Hugger, with a cramped knee angle of around 75 degrees and an upright riding position.

Data quality: estimated (wheelbase estimated from this category's typical bike, not this model's own spec). Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

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⚠ Safety Recalls (2)

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC Jun 1996 · 96V103000

THE SEAL ON THE REAR MASTER CYLINDER PISTON CAN MOVE OUT OF POSITION.

Risk: THIS CONDITION CAN RESULT IN A LOSS OF REAR BRAKING PERFORMANCE INCREASING THE POTENTIAL FOR A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE REAR BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER.

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL Oct 1995 · 95E037000

THE AIR CLEANER BAFFLE PLATE CAN DETACH AND LODGE IN THE THROAT OF THE CARBURETOR.

Risk: THIS CONDITION CAN IMPEDE THE ABILITY OF THE THROTTLEPLATE TO RETURN TO THE IDLE POSITION INCREASING THE POTENTIAL FOR A VEHICLEACCIDENT OR LOSS OF CONTROL OF THE MOTORCYCLE.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE AIR CLEANER FILTER ON THE AFFECTED MOTORCYCLES. IF OWNERS HAVE PURCHASED A FILTER AND HAVE NOT INSTALLED IT ON THEIR MOTORCYCLES, THEY CAN RETURN THE FILTER FOR A REPLACEMENT OR A REFUND OF THEIR MONEY.

Source: NHTSA. View all Harley-Davidson recalls →

Rider Reviews

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