2003 Harley-Davidson XL 883 Custom Review

Francesca Robinson helps Chris find his dream cruiser, as she has him test ride the 2003 model Harley-Davidson XL 883 Custom, and give us his review of the American machine. He tests the bike for it's performance, handling, practicality, reliability, as well as rating it's looks.

[@JohnnyRebKy]

My first road bike was a 2003 883 just like this. Rode it for 10 years and loved it. Not one problem only oil changes and tires.

[@twistedtaipan3862]

What oil did you use? Everyone has a favorite, and apparently yours worked well.

[@boomerguy9935]

The Custom model of all Sportsters have the forward controls aka "Easy Rider" position. I have a 2005 XL883 Standard which means the controls are called mid-controls and the footpegs are directly below the knees for a more upright riding position that some people call the "sit-up-and-beg" position. Being older with all of the warranties expired on my body, my back can't tolerate the slouching feet-forward position of the "birthing table". My sciatic nerve starts to paralyze me within 20 minutes of riding any model of cruisers. However, I can ride my standard mid-controls all day with no problems at all. If you snow-ski, you know that better control comes with leaning slightly forward in an upright position. Handling is quicker and easier. This same bike in all years since the "C" as in cruiser (XL883C, XL1200C) came out can be bought in a standard version with a 2" smaller diameter front tire that is also wider. The "C" is also more expensive because it has more chrome and bling. Before you buy one of these, test ride both styles. My riding buddy has the "C" and loves it, hates mine. I love my Standard and hate his. However, we don't say this out loud. Both bikes are good. It's a personal choice for most. With my back, I don't have a choice.

[@markwinchester3005]

Thats EXACTLY what I have. I was thinking of putting on forward controls. Thanks for your wisdom for us 'older' riders. I"m 53 and love mine.

[@farmer6861]

I rode mine from North Hampshire to Costa Del Sol and back again in December - stock seat is fine. Larger tank size was ideal. Buy one - you won't regret it

[@twistedtaipan3862]

I recently bought an identical bike and I agree about the tank. The Sportster 72 tank is too small, the huge touring tanks are too big, but this 3.3 gallon is perfect. After 120 miles I'll want to take a break anyways.

[@ianarellano6632]

Costa De Sol Spain?

[@DavidREllisAZ]

I would take this lady for a ride anyday👍

[@TheMakarov9]

"Baby Harley" what a load of shit There is nothing baby about the Sportsters. They are by far the most reliable Harley-Davidson ever made with the Evolution motor. They're lightweight, easy to work on, got plenty of power even in the 883, but I prefer the 1200, easily customized, flickable in the corners and most of all if it wasn't for the Sportster, Harley Davidson woukd have been out of business along time ago. The (Ironhead) Sportster line created in 1957 is the foundation that kept Harley from crumbling

[@markwinchester3005]

Bullseye 🎯!

[@raybrensike42]

Sportster motors were the best motors Harley ever made, and the '03 motor is perhaps the most desirable of all the years.

[@pim1234]

The girl is cute !

[@markwinchester3005]

That's .a WOMAN! She ain't no little girl.

[@pim1234]

@@markwinchester3005 That woman is cute !

[@markwinchester3005]

@@pim1234 She's a helluva lot more than cute