![]() 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. ![]() Video: The History Of MotoStuka & How Shanks Gloves Are Made.Video: How to Install A Skid Plate On A Harley-Davidson Sportster.From The Roller Magazine Archives: Dean Lanza's Quicksilver Panhead Owned by Ryan Grossman.ApFrom The Roller Magazine Archives: Mike Dyas' Shop & His 1966 Harley-Davidson Fl Chopper.With Their 1974 Harley-Davidson Custom Super Glide Shovelhead Motorcycles Built For War: 1942 Harley-Davidson WLA Flathead Liberator.JVideo: The History Of MotoStuka & How Shanks Gloves Are Made.JVideo: How to Install A Skid Plate On A Harley-Davidson Sportster.JFrom The Roller Magazine Archives: Dean Lanza's Quicksilver Panhead Owned by Ryan Grossman.
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