14 August. Friday 2026
Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster Police - 2008 Specifications and Reviews
The 2008 Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster Police is a purpose-built law enforcement cruiser featuring a reliable 883cc air-cooled V-twin engine with electronic fuel injection. Best suited for riders seeking a lightweight, nimble cruiser for urban riding and patrol duties, it combines classic Harley styling with practical handling and durability. Known for its accessible seat height and manageable power delivery, making it ideal for riders transitioning to larger motorcycles.
2008
General information | |
| Category | Custom / cruiser |
| Year | 2008 |
| Model | Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster Police |
| | |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Clutch | 9-plate, wet |
| Transmission typefinal drive | Belt |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Cooling system | Air |
| 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 |
| Stroke | 4 |
| Engine type | V2 |
| Capacity: | 882.66 ccm (53.86 cubic inches) |
| | |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Wheelbase | 1,524 mm (60.0 inches) |
| Ground clearance | 142 mm (5.6 inches) |
| Overall length | 2,289 mm (90.1 inches) |
| Overall height | 1,161 mm (45.7 inches) |
| Seat height | 693 mm (27.3 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Dry weight | 255.4 kg (563.0 pounds) |
Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster Police dimensions and frame | |
| Exhaust system | Chrome staggered shorty duals |
| Rear brakes diameter | 292 mm (11.5 inches) |
| Rear brakes | Single disc |
| Front brakes diameter | 292 mm (11.5 inches) |
| Front brakes | Single disc |
| Rear tyre dimensions | 150/80-B16 |
| Front tyre dimensions | 100/90-19 |
Speed and acceleration | |
| Color options | Birch White, Vivid Black, Glacier White Pearl |
| Reserve fuel capacity | 3.02 litres (0.80 gallons) |
| Fuel capacity | 12.49 litres (3.30 gallons) |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
6.5s
0-60 mph (est.)
Best For
Track10%
City65%
Cornering35%
Daily Riding55%
Touring40%
Passenger30%
Rider Profile
| Best For | Suited to riders with at least some basic experience, as this ex-police Sportster is heavy and torque-driven despite its modest 883cc displacement. |
| Purpose | Originally built as a duty bike, it excels at low-speed maneuvering, stop-and-go patrol work, and short urban commuting rather than outright speed or long-distance cruising. |
| Rider Fit | The low 693mm seat height makes it accessible for shorter riders, but the substantial dry weight of over 255kg demands confident handling at parking-lot speeds. |
| Character | A no-nonsense, air-cooled V-twin cruiser with classic Harley thump, stripped-down police-spec durability, and a stable, planted feel rather than sporty agility. |
| Not Ideal For | Not a good fit for riders seeking high-speed performance, aggressive cornering ability, or a plush long-haul touring setup with passenger comfort. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
Rider Reviews
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