Sportster Motorcycle by Harley-Davidson

What is more American than a Harley-Davidson motorcycle?  In business since 1903, the Harley-Davidson Motor Company holds a distinguished place in our country’s history, and even had a significant role in both World War I and II.  And nothing is more of a classic than the iconic H-D Sportster.  

 

The H-D XL Sportster was first manufactured in 1957, which makes it the oldest production model still being manufactured by H-D today.  According to their website, the sportster premiered as a “55 cubic inch overhead valve engine, and within one year of its debut, became known as the first of the Superbikes."  The first Sportsters were predecessors of the KHK and featured a similar frame and fenders as well as a large gas tank.  The XL was one of the first H-D bikes to have rear suspension, and to be fitted with a higher performance overhead-valve engine than that of the K line, which had a flat head engine.

The bike was built to compete with the extremely popular Triumph Thunderbird, a British made bike.  Throughout the years, H-D has continued to make improvements on the Sportster.  In 1986 a new engine was introduced.  The Evolution was offered in a choice of an 883cc or 1100cc.  The 1100cc was updated to a 1200cc two years later and has remained as such today. 

After 50 years of manufacturing the Sportster, H-D introduced the XL 1200N Nightster in 2007 that came with black rims, fork gaiters, and side mount license plate holder.  Fuel injection was now installed as standard on all Sportsters models.  The 2014 Sportster was updated with an all-new electric system and an increased compression ratio on the Evolution engine.  Options such as ABS and keyless entry are now available.  

One of the great advantages for owners of an older Sportster or those buying a used one is that since the bike has been in production for so many years, there are plenty of parts and information available for the bike.  

*Read more from the official Harley-Davidson website. 

The Car Show, Inc. is a family owned and operated dealership that has been offering unsurpassed service to the community since 1987.  Our motto is "If it has wheels, we sell it." You will find our prices are competitive on high-quality pre-owned cars, trucks, and motorcycles as well as both new and used RVs.