Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster SuperLow - 2012 Specifications and Reviews
The 2012 Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster SuperLow is an entry-level cruiser designed for riders seeking an accessible, manageable motorcycle with authentic Harley character. Its exceptionally low 25.5-inch seat height and lightweight 563-pound frame make it ideal for shorter riders or those new to motorcycling. Known for its classic styling, reliable 883cc engine, and approachable handling, the SuperLow delivers genuine cruiser appeal without intimidating complexity.
2012
General information | |
| Category | Custom / cruiser |
| Year | 2012 |
| Model | Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster SuperLow |
| | |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Exhaust system | Chrome, staggered, shorty exhaust with dual mufflers |
| Greenhouse gases | 107.0 CO |
| Fuel consumption | 4.61 litres/100 km (21.7 km/l or 51.02 mpg) |
| Driveline | Chain primary drive, 57/34 ratio |
| Clutch | Multi-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath |
| Transmission type,final drive | Belt |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Cooling system | Air |
| Lubrication system | Dry-sump |
| Fuel system | Injection. Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) |
| Bore x stroke | 76.2 x 96.8 mm (3.0 x 3.8 inches) |
| Compression | 8.9:1 |
| Torque | 74.58 Nm (7.6 kgf-m or 55.0 ft.lbs) @ 3500 |
| Engine details | Air-cooled, Evolution. Silver, powder-coated engine with polished covers. |
| Engine type | V2, four-stroke |
| Capacity: | 883.32 ccm (53.90 cubic inches) |
Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels | |
| Wheels | Black, Split 5-Spoke with Machined Rim |
| Rear brakes diameter | 260 mm (10.2 inches) |
| Rear brakes | Single disc. Single-piston |
| Front brakes diameter | 292 mm (11.5 inches) |
| Front brakes | Single disc. Dual-piston |
| Rear tyre dimensions | 150/60-ZR17 |
| Front tyre dimensions | 120/70-ZR18 |
| Rear suspension | Mild steel, rectangular tube section, stamped junctions, MIG welded swing-arm. Coil-over; preload dual-adjustable shocks. |
| Front suspension | 39 mm Showa |
| Trail | 145 mm (5.7 inches) |
| Rake (fork angle) | 31.1° |
| Frame type | Mild steel, tubular frame; circular sections; cast junctions |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Oil capacity | 2.60 litres (0.17 quarts) |
| Fuel capacity | 17.03 litres (4.50 gallons) |
| Wheelbase | 1,506 mm (59.3 inches) |
| Ground clearance | 97 mm (3.8 inches) |
| Overall length | 2,187 mm (86.1 inches) |
| Seat height | 648 mm (25.5 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Weight incl. oil, gas, etc | 255.4 kg (563.0 pounds) |
| Dry weight | 243.1 kg (536.0 pounds) |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Color options | Vivid Black, Ember Red Sunglo, Midnight Pearl/Cool Blue Pearl, Birch White/Sunburst Red |
| Factory warranty | 24 months, unlimited mileage. |
| Seat | Solo seat with deep bucket shape |
| Electrical | Sealed lead acid battery, maintenance-free, 12V, 12 amp/hour, 200 cca. |
| Light | High beam, neutral, low oil pressure, turn signals, engine diagnostics, low fuel warning, low battery, security system (optional) |
| Instruments | Handlebar-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 |
| Starter | Electric |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
6.5s
0-60 mph (est.)
Best For
Track10%
City65%
Cornering35%
Daily Riding60%
Touring35%
Passenger25%
Rider Profile
| Best For | A low seat height and manageable weight make this an approachable machine for beginner-to-intermediate cruiser riders, including those newer to bigger V-twins. |
| Purpose | Built for relaxed, low-slung cruising and short-to-medium rides rather than outright speed or long-distance touring. |
| Rider Fit | Its low 648 mm seat height and modest dry weight favor shorter riders or those wanting confident flat-footed stops, though the wide bars and forward-set pegs suit a laid-back reach. |
| Character | A classic air-cooled Evolution V-twin delivers torquey, unhurried power with an emphasis on style, sound, and cruiser presence over aggressive performance. |
| Not Ideal For | Not suited to riders wanting sharp cornering agility, high-speed touring comfort, or any off-road capability. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
Rider Reviews
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