written by alberthoorn on 25/11/2008
Good Points
1. build quality
2. very low maintenance
3. (brand) image
4. fuel efficient
5. price in relation to brand image
6. road holding
7. styling
Bad Points
1. suspension
2. engine tuning required for acceptable performance/behaviour
3. jiffy
4. standard tires
General Comments
My orange Centennial 2003 Harley Davidson Sportster XL 883 is a real experience. You have to ride it regularly to keep used to it. It always attracts people, when they see it. It is a beautiful Harley after all.
It has its quirks but when used as conceived (slow cruising) the bike is excellent and due to the relaxing engine character and the stability and once driving
when purchased 2nd hand with 3000km (now 11.000km) on the odo the engine was stock and was mainly vibrating instead of offering some kind of performance and coughing after starting. I corrected both by mounting a Screaming Eagle open engine filter and it also fixed the irritating breather oil leakage problem with the stock closed filter!
I get 20 kilometers per litre and maintenance is very cheap (Euro 150 for 8000km service).
Some things require attention: