I recently purchased the Harley-Davidson XL883 motorcycle. I was getting ready to order an 883 Custom, but would be on a waiting list until November. Another dealership got an XL883 in stock, and added their own custom parts. The additions made this bike similar to the model that I was planning to order...only I didn't have to wait until prime riding weather had passed me by! I purchased this motorcycle (in the Chicago area) for $7,400. That price includes nearly $1,500 in custom parts.

First Impressions... The first impression I get when looking at this bike is speed. Although Harley-Davidson Motorcycles are heavy (this one weighs in at nearly 500 pounds dry), this motorcycle looks like it will move. My partner recently purchased the 1200 version, which is on the same frame as the 883, and his WILL move. My motorcycle is Cobalt Blue, which actually appears to be a metallic purple. There is plenty of chrome, although there are plenty of areas where more chrome could be added. The overall appearance of this bike is sleek, smart and attractive.

Sound... This bike sounds like a Harley-Davidson, only quieter. I did not modify the pipes. The stock pipes offer ample sound, and the trademark Harley rumble. My friend modified his 1200 with baloney cut pipes, and increased the sound output of his motorcycle. Although I like the sound of a Harley-Davidson, I am satisfied with the quieter version. You can also feel the sound of the motorcycle, moving beneath you. The rumble of the Harley-Davidson has a distinct feel.

Performance... I am still getting used to this motorcycle. The weight makes it much easier to drop, if you aren't careful. Lighter bikes are easier to handle when the motor is off (like pushing up a driveway, or across the grass). However, the lighter bikes will move much more when hit by the blast of a passing semi-truck. I believe I will take the added weight when the engine is cut off, in exchange for the stability on the highway. The XL883 is not the fastest motorcycle, but if you want speed, buy Japanese. This motorcycle has great pick-up and corners well. The front forks have a 37 degree rake, which assists performance. Many motorcycles sacrifice this handling by lowering the rake, giving a sleeker, lower profile.

Price... I stated the price of this motorcycle early in this article. However, I have a few other comments to make on price. First, insurance on a motorcycle will run between $200 and $300 a year. The difference in premiums are based on experience, use (are you going to store it during the winter?), training (ABATE classes), and whether or not you own your home. Additional costs include a helmet (which run $50 and UP), locks, cover, and accessories. You may decide to add a small tool kit, a leather travel bag, more chrome, braided wires or highway foot pegs. Motorcycles are meant to be accessorized. It makes the motorcycle personal. It sets yours apart from every other one. So when you think about buying a motorcycle, and are wondering how much you want to spend, think about how much you WILL end up spending, too!

Final Thoughts... I love my Harley-Davidson XL883. The bottom line, I like the way it looks, rides and sounds. The price is reasonable (especially for a Harley-Davidson). The ride is comfortable, smooth and easy. The freedom that you feel on a motorcycle is inexplicable. You have to ride to understand. The 883 has been around since 1957. With that kind of history, the motorcycle must be good. The proven track record of this motorcycle make it trustworthy. This motorcycle was designed primarily for enjoyment riding, and I would not necessarily recommend it for a long road trip. However, it would certainly hold up mechanically to a road trip...although you might be a little sore when you get where you're going! Overall, this bike is a great bargain, will hold it's value, and will bring me endless hours of enjoyment.



Recommended: Yes