At a glance, 883 and 1200 Sportsters look the same.
There are multiple ways to convert a Sportster with an engine displacement of 883 cubic centimeters into one with an engine displacement of 1200 cubic centimeters. As a result, there are several potential clues to interpret. One infallible test is the removal of the motorcycle heads, which takes a skilled mechanic at least four hours. The cylinders on an 883 are 3 inches in diameter. The cylinder interiors on a 1200 are a full half inch bigger. If you do not feel like rebuilding the whole top end of the motor, though, there are still a few options.
Instructions
1. Look at the heads. If the heads were manufactured by Edelbrock, S&S, Harley-Davidson's own Screamin' Eagle performance line or any manufacturer other than Harley-Davidson they were installed as part of an aftermarket conversion package so the Sportster is a 1200 not an 883.
2. Examine the base of the cylinders. The most common conversion procedure replaces the cylinders but not the heads. If the cylinders are engraved "1200" at their bases the Sportster is a 1200.
3. Ride a known 883 Sportster hard. Ride the 883 on a freeway or interstate and uphill and note the acceleration and torque of that motorcycle.
4. Ride the motorcycle in question. A 1200 Sportster has at least 40 percent more horsepower than an 883. The difference is unmistakable and it is a fool-proof test.
Tags: with engine displacement, cubic centimeters, engine displacement, Sportster 1200, with engine
