Harley-Davidson XLCH
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| Harley-Davidson XLCH | |
| Manufacturer | |
|---|---|
| Also called | Sportster |
| Engine | 883cc V-twin |
| Weight | |
| Manuals | Service Manual |
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The Harley-Davidson XLCH Sportster motorcycle's impressive 883-cc V-twin engine outpowered most competitors of the era.
Description
The XLCH was a sportier version of the XL883 Sportster introduced in 1959 two years after the original.-- "CH" supposedly standing for "Competition Hot."
These were stripped-down models oriented toward on- and off-road work with magneto ignition, high exhaust pipes, solo seat, smaller "peanut" tank, and lighter overall weight.
It also featured the now-famous "eyebrow" headlight cover that remains a Sportster trademark. Harley-Davidson also offered the XLH, a dressed-up, touring-influenced version that was outsold by its sportier sibling.
Power rose steadily over the years, earning the fleet Sportster the nickname "King of the Drags" -- an unofficial title it would hold until the late 1960s.
Of course, this was at a time when most of its competitors were British 650-cc twins, which spotted considerable displacement to the 883-cc Sportster. And in drag racing, size matters.
1964
1968
1972
1972 Harley Davidson Ironhead Sportster XLCH
1972 Harley Davidson Ironhead Sportster XLCH
1972 Harley Davidson Ironhead Sportster XLCH
1972 Harley Davidson Ironhead Sportster XLCH
