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
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General information

CategoryCustom / cruiser
Year2012
ModelHarley-Davidson XL883L Sportster SuperLow
 
 

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Exhaust systemChrome, staggered, shorty exhaust with dual mufflers
Greenhouse gases107.0 CO
Fuel consumption4.61 litres/100 km (21.7 km/l or 51.02 mpg)
DrivelineChain primary drive, 57/34 ratio
ClutchMulti-plate with diaphragm spring in oil bath
Transmission type,final driveBelt
Gearbox5-speed
Cooling systemAir
Lubrication systemDry-sump
Fuel systemInjection. Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Bore x stroke76.2 x 96.8 mm (3.0 x 3.8 inches)
Compression8.9:1
Torque74.58 Nm (7.6 kgf-m or 55.0 ft.lbs) @ 3500
Engine detailsAir-cooled, Evolution. Silver, powder-coated engine with polished covers.
Engine typeV2, four-stroke
Capacity:883.32 ccm (53.90 cubic inches)

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

WheelsBlack, Split 5-Spoke with Machined Rim
Rear brakes diameter260 mm (10.2 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc. Single-piston
Front brakes diameter292 mm (11.5 inches)
Front brakesSingle disc. Dual-piston
Rear tyre dimensions150/60-ZR17
Front tyre dimensions120/70-ZR18
Rear suspensionMild steel, rectangular tube section, stamped junctions, MIG welded swing-arm. Coil-over; preload dual-adjustable shocks.
Front suspension39 mm Showa
Trail145 mm (5.7 inches)
Rake (fork angle)31.1°
Frame typeMild steel, tubular frame; circular sections; cast junctions

Physical measures and capacities

Oil capacity2.60 litres (0.17 quarts)
Fuel capacity17.03 litres (4.50 gallons)
Wheelbase1,506 mm (59.3 inches)
Ground clearance97 mm (3.8 inches)
Overall length2,187 mm (86.1 inches)
Seat height648 mm (25.5 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc255.4 kg (563.0 pounds)
Dry weight243.1 kg (536.0 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
Color optionsVivid Black, Ember Red Sunglo, Midnight Pearl/Cool Blue Pearl, Birch White/Sunburst Red
Factory warranty24 months, unlimited mileage.
SeatSolo seat with deep bucket shape
ElectricalSealed lead acid battery, maintenance-free, 12V, 12 amp/hour, 200 cca.
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

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

6.5s
0-60 mph (est.)

Best For

Track10%
City65%
Cornering35%
Daily Riding60%
Touring35%
Passenger25%

Rider Profile

Best ForA low seat height and manageable weight make this an approachable machine for beginner-to-intermediate cruiser riders, including those newer to bigger V-twins.
PurposeBuilt for relaxed, low-slung cruising and short-to-medium rides rather than outright speed or long-distance touring.
Rider FitIts 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.
CharacterA classic air-cooled Evolution V-twin delivers torquey, unhurried power with an emphasis on style, sound, and cruiser presence over aggressive performance.
Not Ideal ForNot 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 Fit Visualizer

2012 Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster SuperLow Rider Ergonomics Assessment

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

Feet:

At 648mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2012 Harley-Davidson XL883L Sportster SuperLow, 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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