The 2009 XL Custom came in colors including vivid black, pewter pearl and flame blue pearl.
A narrow frame, affordable price tag compared to other Harley models, and classic design made the Sportster XL 883 Custom a long-standing option for those interested in the mid-sized cruiser motorcycle market. As of 2010, the 2009 XL 883 Custom marked the most recent motorcycle of this exact model. Capable in a city setting and nimble on curvy roads, the XL 883 Custom produces high torque and power for spirited riders.
History
The Harley Davidson Sportster is the longest continually produced motorcycle in the illustrious brand's history. In 1957, the first Sportster XL rode onto American streets. In 2010, the Sportster remained a staple in the Harley line up but the company did not decide to bring the XL 883 Custom model back after 2009.
Engine & Transmission
Powered by an 883cc, air-cooled, four-stroke Harley Evolution engine, the 2009 XL 883 Custom produced 55 foot-pounds of torque at 3,500 rpm and had a top speed around 110 mph. The Evolution motor had a bore x stroke of 3 inches x 3.81 inches, 8.9:1 compression ratio and a displacement of 53.86 cubic inches. A belt driven transmission delivered power to the 5-speed gearbox. Engine waste exited through chrome staggered shorty exhaust pipes with dual mufflers, which created a deep Harley sound. Fuel reached the engine through an electronic sequential port fuel injection system.
Technical Specifications
Without gas, the XL 883 Custom weighed 565 lbs. but when the 4.5-gallon fuel tank was full, the cruiser motorcycle pushed 591 lbs. The narrow frame was 90.3 inches long, had a ground clearance of 4.40 inches and wheelbase of 59.8 inches. Harley Davidson stated the seat sat 26.5 inches off the ground with a 180-lb. rider on top and rose to 28 inches without a rider. Maximum oil capacity was 2.8 quarts. Front tire dimensions were MH90-21 and 150/80-16 in the rear. The 2009 MSRP was $7,999 when colored black and up to $8,644 for a custom color.
Suspension & Brakes
Harley re-calibrated the suspension for 2009 adding low-profile rear shocks. The front and rear suspension upgrades helped create a comfortable ride. Dual-piston brakes slowed the front wheel while a single piston slowed the rear.
Aesthetics & Features
According to Harley Davidson, the 2009 XL 883 Custom got 60 mpg on the highway and 45 mpg in the city. The front rim made from chrome and laced steel brought classic curb appeal while the newly designed lighter rear rim was made of silver accompanied with slotted disc cast aluminum. A narrow but strong mild steel tubular frame allows the Custom model to cut back and forth on the road with ease compared to larger cruiser motorcycles. Other features included a low-profile front fender, one-piece seat, powder-coated engine, forward foot controls and chrome low-rise handlebars on a pullback riser.
Tags: 2009 Custom, Harley Davidson, cruiser motorcycle, Custom model, Custom model back, Davidson Sportster, Harley Davidson Sportster