1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL
Introduced in 1957, the 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL features a 883cc OHV V-twin Ironhead engine producing 40hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.
Specifications
Engine
- Type
- OHV V-twin Ironhead
- Displacement
- 883 cc
- Cylinders
- 2
- Power
- 40 hp @ 5500 rpm
- Torque
- 56.0 Nm
- Compression
- —
- Bore × Stroke
- 76.2 × 96.8 mm
- Cooling
- Air-cooled
- Fuel System
- Linkert carburetor
Chassis & Transmission
- Frame
- Steel double loop
- Front Suspension
- Telescopic fork
- Rear Suspension
- Twin shock
- Front Brake
- Drum
- Rear Brake
- Drum
- Front Tyre
- —
- Rear Tyre
- —
- Transmission
- 4-speed
- Final Drive
- Chain
Performance
- Top Speed
- 160 km/h (99 mph)
- ¼ Mile
- —
Dimensions & Weight
- Dry Weight
- 200 kg (441 lbs)
- Wet Weight
- 220 kg (485 lbs)
- Seat Height
- 740 mm
- Wheelbase
- 1460 mm
- Ground Clearance
- —
- Fuel Capacity
- 13.0 L
History & Story
The 1957 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL was introduced by Harley-Davidson as a standard motorcycle aimed at riders seeking standard motorcycle performance and style. Manufactured in United States, it represented Harley-Davidson's vision for the twin-cylinder standard motorcycle market during the 1950s.
The 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL is motivated by a 883cc OHV V-twin Ironhead twin-cylinder unit delivering 40hp at 5500 rpm. Breathing through Linkert carburetor and kept cool by air-cooled, the engine drives through a 4-speed transmission with chain final drive.
Weighing 200 kg (441 lbs) dry, the 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL uses a steel double loop frame, telescopic fork front suspension, and twin shock rear suspension. The braking system comprises drum front and drum rear units.
Performance-wise, the 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL achieves a claimed top speed of 160 km/h (99 mph). With a fuel capacity of 13.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 740 mm makes it accessible for most riders.
Today, the 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL is considered a highly sought-after classic that commands strong prices among collectors worldwide. Parts availability is rated as good, making ownership relatively straightforward. It remains an icon of Harley-Davidson motorcycling from 1950s.
The 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL is motivated by a 883cc OHV V-twin Ironhead twin-cylinder unit delivering 40hp at 5500 rpm. Breathing through Linkert carburetor and kept cool by air-cooled, the engine drives through a 4-speed transmission with chain final drive.
Weighing 200 kg (441 lbs) dry, the 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL uses a steel double loop frame, telescopic fork front suspension, and twin shock rear suspension. The braking system comprises drum front and drum rear units.
Performance-wise, the 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL achieves a claimed top speed of 160 km/h (99 mph). With a fuel capacity of 13.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 740 mm makes it accessible for most riders.
Today, the 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL is considered a highly sought-after classic that commands strong prices among collectors worldwide. Parts availability is rated as good, making ownership relatively straightforward. It remains an icon of Harley-Davidson motorcycling from 1950s.
Known Issues
- Oil leaks considered normal on vintage models
- Generator and voltage regulator issues
- Primary chain tensioner adjustment
- Period-correct fasteners and hardware hard to find
Fun Facts
- Pristine examples of the 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL can command six-figure prices at auction
- The 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL is considered one of the most collectible motorcycles from Harley-Davidson
- The 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL is widely regarded as a milestone in motorcycle history
Collector Information
- Parts Availability
- Good
- Collector Rating
- 9/10
Resources & Parts
Find 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL Parts on eBay
Search eBay Motors for parts, accessories and restoration supplies
Haynes Manual for Harley-Davidson
Workshop manuals, service guides and technical references
Insure Your Classic Harley-Davidson
Specialist classic motorcycle insurance from Hagerty
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