It may be the baby of the Harley-Davidson line-up, but the entry-level Sportster brings with it classic looks and a ton of heritage.
Introduced by The Motor Company to meet the challenge of British twins from Norton, BSA and Triumph way back in 1957, the Sportster was pretty radical for a Harley - it had overhead valves!
The low single seat (dual seat is available as an option) means even the most vertically challenged amongst us can get both feet flat on the ground when we sit on a Sportster.
And with narrow handlebars and footpegs positioned for riding, not cruising, it handles surprisingly well. Especially when you consider the bargain-basement rear shocks and front fork.
The Sportster makes a pretty cool commuter. The "peanut" gas tank only holds 12.5-litres (2.75 gallons) of unleaded, and you can't expect much more than 45mpg. The 883 was never meant to be a long-distance tourer anyway.
A long-lasting belt drive keeps the rear end clear of chain-flung lube.
Power output is a claimed 49bhp at 6000rpm at the crankshaft. Top speed nudges 100mph - that's slow compared to Japanese fours of half the capacity, but then nobody buys a Harley to go fast. Not even one with a Sportster nametag. The single front disc is no tyre-squealer. Remember, you've got 222kg of Hog to haul up.
The 883 is not a bike for high-speed cruising. Stick to a steady 60mph and the vibes are within the comfort zone, and you can still hear the classic "potato-potato" exhaust note. Try to go much faster and you start to worry if it will all hold together as the V-twin rumble moves through the footrests and frame to your feet and bum. Blame it on the rigidly mounted Evolution engine.
But at less than five grand new, this Harley is great value. If you want more grunt, check out the 1200cc Sportster.
