![]() In 1972-73 the customer had the choice of either a 2.2 or 4 gallon gas tank. XLH models 1971 and earlier had a 4 gallon gas tank. All Sportster models, including the XLCH, shared the frame and engine cases from the XLH electric start models). In 1970, the early frames and cases were discontinued. For 1967-1969 there were two frames and engine cases depending on if the bike had electric start (The kickstart-only XLCH continued using the original frame and engine cases during this time. Seat post tubes were set 1.5" toward the rear, so the upper shock mounts and fender rail mount all were moved rearward. The oil tank on these models was side mounted on the left side, allowing the room for the battery and starter, as opposed to the center-mounted oil tank. The XLH swingarm was then lengthened accordingly. To accommodate the larger battery and electric starter, the frame of electric start XLH models was 'kicked back' just above the swingarm pivot. In 1967 only, the XLH had both a kickstart and electric starter, though in 1968 onward XLH models were electric start only, no kickstarter. The XLH always has an electric starter from 1967, the first year it was introduced. In short: XLH always has an electric starter while XLCH may not, there were no differences between XLH and XLCH in 1973 up at all. ![]() "Don't let the special low price confuse you, this is no foreign imitation." - Harley-Davidson ad for the release of the 1983 XLX-61. The earlier models that had the gear-shift lever on the right side were inspired by Harley-Davidson's impressive flat track racing history. ![]() Sportsters made from 1957 through 1990 were outfitted with four-speed transmissions, while models made since 1991 have five-speed gearboxes. The iconic peanut fuel tank also made its entrance that year. Not only was this cycle as sleek and exciting as the British imports, but it was more powerful, and it was a Harley-Davidson!īy the time the 1958 XLCH models came out, the Harley-Davidson Sportster engines featured higher compression, with larger valves and domed pistons. With its fresh and dynamic appearance, the Sportster became appealing to motorcycle consumers almost immediately. The price of a brand new XL Sportster in 1957 was approximately $1,100. The model was created in part to provide some real competition to the best British Triumphs, BSAs and Nortons that were becoming increasingly popular with American riders. The dynamic new Sportster represented the start of a new era in American motorcycling. What does XL mean on a Sportster? The term XL on a Sportster means Experimental Lightweight or Extra Light. The "Evo" motors were available in 883 cc and 1,100 cc sizes. ![]() In 1986 the ironhead engines were replaced with the new Harley Davidson Evolution engine. Ironhead motors were used to power Sportsters from 1957 through 1985. When the Sportster debuted, it closely resembled the K models in appearance, but the K model's 45 cubic-inch engine was replaced with a more powerful 54 cubic-inch, overhead-valve powerplant that was known as the ironhead motor because of the iron cylinder heads that were used. The K models were the first civilian cycles made by Harley-Davidson that featured hydraulic front forks, and a swing-arm in the rear that contained two shock absorbers. One of the mechanical advances offered on the K models was the inclusion of hydraulic suspension systems on both wheels. The design was opposite that of the Harley-Davidson Big-Twin models, with the foot-brake lever on the left side of the bike, and the gear-shifter on the right side. ![]() The K model Harleys were the first models to sport a hand-clutch and a foot-gear shifter. ![]()
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