Of course. Here is a full article about the Harley-Davidson Sportster Iron 883, written to your specifications.
2009–2022 Harley-Davidson Sportster Evolution 883 (XL883N Iron 883)
The Harley-Davidson Sportster Evolution 883, specifically the XL883N Iron 883 model, was a cruiser motorcycle introduced by Harley-Davidson in 2009 as part of its “Dark Custom” series. Produced until 2022, the Iron 883 became one of the most popular models in the Sportster lineup, celebrated for its minimalist, blacked-out aesthetic and its role as an accessible entry point into the Harley-Davidson brand. It represented a significant stylistic departure from the more traditional, chrome-heavy Sportster models that preceded it, such as the XL883 or XL883L “Low.” The Iron 883 favored a raw, “bobber” inspired design with chopped fenders, a solo seat, and a monochromatic color scheme that resonated with a younger demographic and the custom motorcycle scene.
Design and Styling
The core appeal of the Iron 883 was its aggressive, understated styling. From its introduction, the motorcycle featured a predominantly black finish, covering the engine, air cleaner cover, wheels, and frame. This “blacked-out” treatment was a stark contrast to the gleaming chrome that defined many cruisers of the era.
Key design elements included:
Low Solo Seat: A single-piece, low-profile solo seat contributed to the bike’s bobber stance and a low laden seat height of just 25.7 inches, making it approachable for a wide range of riders.
Mid-Mount Controls: Unlike many cruisers with forward controls, the Iron 883 featured mid-mount foot controls, providing a more neutral and commanding riding position.
Drag-Style Handlebar: A low-rise, drag-style handlebar further enhanced the bike’s aggressive, forward-leaning profile.
“Peanut” Fuel Tank: The classic 3.3-gallon (12.5 L) peanut fuel tank was a signature Sportster feature that maintained the bike’s lean and compact look.
Gaitered Forks and Blacked-Out Wheels: Black fork gaiters and black 13-spoke cast aluminum wheels (later updated) completed the dark, industrial aesthetic.
Powertrain and Performance
The Harley-Davidson Sportster Evolution 883 Engine
At the heart of the Iron 883 is the legendary air-cooled Evolution engine. This 883cc (53.9 cu in) V-Twin is rubber-mounted to the frame to reduce vibration, a significant update made to the Sportster platform in 2004. The engine was known for its reliability and characteristic Harley-Davidson sound and feel. It was equipped with Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI), providing consistent performance and easier starting compared to earlier carbureted models.
The powertrain was mated to a 5-speed transmission, delivering power to the rear wheel via a clean and low-maintenance belt drive system. While not designed for top-end speed, the engine produced ample low-end torque, making it ideal for city riding and spirited acceleration from a stop.
Evolution and Updates (2009–2022)
Throughout its 13-year production run, the Iron 883 received several key updates that improved its performance and rider comfort.
2014: A major update included a revised braking system with larger front brake rotors, more rigid calipers, and the introduction of an optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The motorcycle also received new, more ergonomic hand controls.
2016: This model year saw the most significant performance enhancement with an all-new suspension system. The bike was fitted with upgraded emulsion coil-over rear shocks with adjustable preload and new cartridge-style front forks. These changes dramatically improved ride quality and handling. A new “tuck and roll” style seat was also added for better comfort, along with new lightweight mag wheels.
* Later Years: From 2017 to its discontinuation in 2022, updates were primarily focused on new paint schemes and graphic treatments, while the core mechanical components remained unchanged.
The end of the Iron 883’s production marked the phasing out of the air-cooled Evolution Sportster platform in many global markets, largely due to increasingly stringent emissions standards.
Specifications
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| :— | :— |
| General | |
| Brand | Harley-Davidson |
| Model | Sportster |
| Model Class | Iron 883 (XL883N) |
| Model Year | 2009–2022 (specs based on 2021 model) |
| Type | Cruiser / Standard |
| Performance | |
| Max. Power | Approx. 54 Hp (40 kW) |
| Max. Torque | 53.8 ft-lb (73 N•m) / 3750 RPM |
| Size | |
| Length | 86 in. (2185 mm) |
| Seat Height (Laden) | 25.7 in. (653 mm) |
| Ground Clearance | 5.5 in. (140 mm) |
| Rake (Steering Head) | 30° |
| Trail | 4.6 in. (117 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 59.6 in. (1515 mm) |
| Curb Weight (Running Order) | 564 lb. (256 kg) |
| Engine | |
| Type | Air-cooled, Evolution® V-Twin |
| Displacement | 53.9 cu in (883 cc) |
| Bore × Stroke | 3 in. × 3.811 in. (76.2 mm × 96.8 mm) |
| Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel System | Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) |
| Lubricating System | Dry-sump |
| Transmission | |
| Transmission Type | 5-speed, manual |
| Clutch Type | Wet, multi-disc |
| Driving System | Belt Drive |
| Primary Drive | Chain, 38/57 ratio |
| Gear Ratios (Overall) | 1st: 9.315; 2nd: 6.653; 3rd: 4.948; 4th: 4.102; 5th: 3.517 |
| Chassis | |
| Frame | Mild steel, tubular frame |
| Front Fork | 39mm Telescopic Fork |
| Rear Shocks | Twin-sided swingarm with coil-over emulsion shocks; pre-load adjustable |
| Tire Size (Front) | 100/90B19 57H |
| Tire Size (Rear) | 150/80B16 77H |
| Wheels | Black, 9-Spoke Cast Aluminum |
| Brakes | Dual-piston front, dual-piston rear calipers |
| Capacity | |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 3.3 gal (12.5 L) |
| Fuel Consumption (Est.) | 51 mpg (4.6 L / 100 km) |
| Oil Capacity (w/filter) | 2.8 qt. (2.6 L) |
| Electric** | |
| Battery | Sealed, maintenance-free, 12V |
| Headlight | Halogen |
| 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 |
