How do I check the oil in my 2003 Harley Davidson Sportster?

Someone said to check it when it is hot. Is that correct?

Always check it hot, 2003 models are checked upright, not on the side stand. You can check it cold, but it will read lower than it actually is, and you can easily overfill if you check it cold.Your owner's manual says that HD recommends checking it hot, and the service manual recommends checking it hot.