14 August. Friday 2026
Harley-Davidson XL883N Sportster Iron 883 - 2012 Specifications and Reviews
The 2012 Harley-Davidson XL883N Sportster Iron 883 is an entry-level cruiser ideal for new and experienced riders seeking an accessible, lightweight motorcycle with classic styling. Known for its manageable 256kg weight, low 654mm seat height, and reliable 883cc engine, it delivers authentic Harley character without intimidating complexity. Perfect for urban commuting and weekend cruises, this Iron model emphasizes stripped-down aesthetics and nimble handling in a true American icon.
2012
General information | |
| Category | Custom / cruiser |
| Year | 2012 |
| Model | Harley-Davidson XL883N Sportster Iron 883 |
| | |
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 |
| Engine type | V2, four-stroke |
| Capacity: | 883.32 ccm (53.90 cubic inches) |
Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels | |
| Wheels | Black, 13-Spoke Cast Aluminum |
| 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 | 150/80-B16 |
| Front tyre dimensions | 100/90-B19 |
| Rear suspension travel | 54 mm (2.1 inches) |
| Rear suspension | Mild steel, rectangular tube section, stamped junctions, MIG welded swing-arm. Coil-over; preload dual-adjustable shocks. |
| Front suspension travel | 92 mm (3.6 inches) |
| Front suspension | 39 mm |
| Trail | 117 mm (4.6 inches) |
| Rake (fork angle) | 30.5° |
| Frame type | Mild steel, tubular frame; circular sections; cast junctions |
| | |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Oil capacity | 2.60 litres (0.17 quarts) |
| Fuel capacity | 12.49 litres (3.30 gallons) |
| Wheelbase | 1,519 mm (59.8 inches) |
| Ground clearance | 99 mm (3.9 inches) |
| Overall length | 2,179 mm (85.8 inches) |
| Seat height | 653 mm (25.7 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Weight incl. oil, gas, etc | 256.3 kg (565.0 pounds) |
| Dry weight | 248.6 kg (548.0 pounds) |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Color options | Big Blue Pearl, Ember Red Sunglo, Black Denim |
| Factory warranty | 24 months, unlimited mileage. |
| Seat | Classic solo seat |
| Electrical | Sealed lead acid battery, maintenance-free, 12V, 12 amp/hour, 200 cca. |
| 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%
City55%
Cornering35%
Daily Riding55%
Touring30%
Passenger20%
Rider Profile
| Best For | Suited to riders from beginner-plus to experienced who want a torquey, low-slung V-twin without the complexity of a high-performance machine. |
| Purpose | Built primarily as a stylish, torque-driven cruiser for short rides, boulevard cruising, and expressing classic Harley custom aesthetics rather than outright performance. |
| Rider Fit | The very low seat height and low center of gravity make it approachable for shorter riders, though the wide bars and cruiser ergonomics require moderate arm and shoulder engagement. |
| Character | It rewards a relaxed, laid-back riding style that favors low-rev torque, rumbling exhaust note, and cruiser presence over cornering speed or acceleration. |
| Not Ideal For | This is not the right bike for riders seeking sport-bike 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 Reviews
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