Harley-Davidson Sportster Iron 883 Dark Custom - 2016 Specifications and Reviews

The 2016 Harley-Davidson Sportster Iron 883 Dark Custom is a minimalist cruiser designed for riders seeking authentic, stripped-down styling with manageable performance. Powered by the iconic 53 HP Evolution V-twin engine, this bike delivers 71 Nm of torque and excels at low-speed cruising and urban riding. Best known for its aggressive dark aesthetic, rigid frame geometry, and accessible seat height, it appeals to entry-level and experienced cruiser enthusiasts alike.

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General information

CategoryCustom / cruiser
Year2016
ModelHarley-Davidson Sportster Iron 883 Dark Custom

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Exhaust systemChrome, staggered shorty exhaust with dual mufflers
Greenhouse gases107.0 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Fuel consumption4.61 litres/100 km (21.7 km/l or 51.02 mpg)
DrivelineChain, 57/34 ratio primary drive
ClutchMulti-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath
Transmission type,final driveBelt
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemAir
Fuel systemInjection. Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection
Bore x Stroke76.2 x 96.8 mm (3.0 x 3.8 inches)
Compression8.9:1
Torque71.00 Nm (7.2 kgf-m or 52.4 ft.lbs) @ 3750 RPM
Power53.00 HP (38.7 kW) @ 5750 RPM
Engine detailsEvolution® engine
Engine typeV2, four-stroke
 
 

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

SeatSolo seat
WheelsBlack, 13-Spoke Cast Aluminum
Rear brakesSingle disc. Optional ABS. Dual-piston.
Front brakesSingle disc. Optional ABS. Dual-piston.
Rear tyre150/80-B16
Front tyre100/90-B19
Rear SuspensionTwin shocks, adjustable.
Front SuspensionTelescopic cartridge fork
Trail117 mm (4.6 inches)
Rake (fork angle)30.5°

Physical measures and capacities

Oil capacity2.60 litres (0.17 quarts)
Fuel capacity12.49 litres (3.30 gallons)
Wheelbase1,510 mm (59.4 inches)
Ground clearance120 mm (4.7 inches)
Overall length2,255 mm (88.8 inches)
Seat height735 mm (28.9 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Power/weight ratio0.2112 HP/kg
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc260.0 kg (573.2 pounds)
Dry weight251.0 kg (553.3 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
LightHigh beam, neutral, low oil pressure, turn signals, engine diagnostics, low fuel warning, low battery, security system (optional)
InstrumentsHandlebar-mounted electronic speedometer with odometer, time-of-day clock, dual tripmeter, low fuel warning light, low oil pressure light, engine diagnostics readout, LED indicator lights
StarterElectric
Color optionsBlack.

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

51 hp
Peak Power
6s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track10%
City65%
Cornering35%
Daily Riding55%
Touring30%
Passenger25%

Rider Profile

Best ForApproachable for newer riders thanks to modest power and a low seat height, though the weight and cruiser geometry still reward some prior riding experience.
PurposeBuilt for laid-back street cruising and boulevard style rather than outright performance or long-distance touring.
Rider FitThe low 653mm seat and relaxed, feet-forward riding position suit shorter riders and casual, low-effort riding sessions.
CharacterA classic blacked-out custom cruiser with punchy low-end torque, a thumping air-cooled V-twin soundtrack, and understated dark styling.
Not Ideal ForNot the right choice for riders wanting sharp cornering agility, high-speed touring comfort, or any kind of off-road capability.

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

Rider Fit Visualizer

2016 Harley-Davidson Sportster Iron 883 Dark Custom Rider Ergonomics Assessment

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

Feet:

At 735mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2016 Harley-Davidson Sportster Iron 883 Dark Custom, with a cramped knee angle of around 80 degrees and an upright riding position.

Data quality: measured. 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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