Harley-Davidson Sportster XL883N Iron 833 - 2011 Specifications and Reviews

The 2011 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL883N Iron is a minimalist custom cruiser designed for riders seeking authentic, stripped-down styling with genuine Milwaukee-Eight character. Its air-cooled 883cc Evolution V-twin delivers accessible torque and straightforward handling, making it ideal for new riders and those preferring classic cruiser simplicity. Known for its low-slung stance, sparse bodywork, and raw mechanical appeal, the Iron suits riders valuing heritage and attitude over cutting-edge performance.

2011
4 stars Average rating: 4 from 1 votes
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General information

CategoryCustom / cruiser
Year2011
ModelHarley-Davidson Sportster XL883N Iron 833
 
 

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Exhaust systemChrome, staggered shorty exhaust with dual mufflers
Greenhouse gases94.9 CO
Fuel consumption4.09 litres/100 km (24.4 km/l or 57.51 mpg)
DrivelinePrimary Drive Chain, 57/34 ratio. Final Drive Belt, 68/29 ratio
ClutchMulti-plate, wet
Transmission type,final driveBelt
Gearbox5-speed
Cooling systemAir
Lubrication systemDry-sump
Fuel controlOHV
Fuel systemInjection. Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection
Valves per cylinder2
Bore x stroke76.2 x 96.8 mm (3.0 x 3.8 inches)
Compression8.9:1
Torque75.00 Nm (7.6 kgf-m or 55.3 ft.lbs) @ 3500
Engine detailsAir-cooled Evolution engine. Pushrod-operated, overhead valves with hydraulic, self-adjusting lifters.
Engine typeV2, four-stroke
Capacity:883.32 ccm (53.90 cubic inches)
 
 

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

WheelsBlack, 13-Spoke Cast Aluminum
Rear brakes diameter260 mm (10.2 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc. Patented, uniform expansion rotors. Single-piston.
Front brakes diameter292 mm (11.5 inches)
Front brakesSingle disc. Patented, uniform expansion rotors. Dual-piston.
Rear tyre dimensions150/80-B16
Front tyre dimensions100/90-19
Rear suspension travel41 mm (1.6 inches)
Rear suspensionCoil-over, preload dual-adjustable
Front suspension travel92 mm (3.6 inches)
Front suspension39 mm fork
Trail145 mm (5.7 inches)
Rake (fork angle)31.0°
Frame typeMild steel, tubular frame; circular sections; cast junctions

Physical measures and capacities

Oil capacity2.80 litres (0.18 quarts)
Fuel capacity12.49 litres (3.30 gallons)
Wheelbase1,519 mm (59.8 inches)
Ground clearance99 mm (3.9 inches)
Overall width820 mm (32.3 inches)
Overall length2,179 mm (85.8 inches)
Overall height1,107 mm (43.6 inches)
Seat height653 mm (25.7 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc256.3 kg (565.0 pounds)
Dry weight248.6 kg (548.0 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
Color optionsChrome Yellow, Black Denim
Factory warranty24 months, unlimited mileage. (US)
ElectricalSealed lead acid, maintenance-free batery, 12V, 12 amp/hour, 200 cca. 30-amp, permanent magnet, single-phase alternator with solid-state regulator.
Light55-watt low beam, 60-watt high beam
InstrumentsHandlebar-mounted electronic speedometer with odometer, time-of-day clock odometer, dual tripmeter, low fuel warning light, low oil pressure light, engine diagnostics readout, LED indicator lightsHandlebar-mounted electronic speedometer with odometer, tim
StarterElectric

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

5.8s
0-60 mph (est.)

Best For

Track10%
City60%
Cornering35%
Daily Riding55%
Touring30%
Passenger25%

Rider Profile

Best ForSuits riders from newer intermediate to experienced who want an approachable, low-revving V-twin with classic cruiser feel.
PurposeBuilt primarily for laid-back street cruising, short commutes, and weekend rides rather than outright performance.
Rider FitVery low seat height and manageable weight make it accessible for shorter riders, though the heft is noticeable at low-speed maneuvers.
CharacterA stripped-down, blacked-out Sportster with punchy low-end torque, classic air-cooled V-twin thump, and minimalist bobber styling.
Not Ideal ForNot suited for riders wanting high-speed touring comfort, sport-bike cornering agility, or any off-road capability.

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

Rider Fit Visualizer

2011 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL883N Iron 833 Rider Ergonomics Assessment

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

Feet:

At 653mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2011 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL883N Iron 833, with a cramped knee angle of around 70 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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