Harley-Davidson XL 883 Sportster Roadster 2015 — Specifications

Can a Harley be playful? The question arises when you straddle this 2015 XL 883 Sportster Roadster. With its wide, flat handlebar and a tank featuring dirt-track-inspired graphics, it proclaims its American heritage at first glance. But don't be fooled: this Roadster remains above all a machine for raw sensations, not a sporty motorcycle in disguise.

Under the 12.5-liter tank beats the immutable heart of an 883 Evolution V-Twin. The figures are undeniable: 52 horsepower and 70.6 Nm of torque. Compared to a neo-retro Japanese bike, this is modest. But the essence of the Sportster lies elsewhere. This engine speaks to the soul more than to the speedometer. Its torque arrives low, very low, at 3750 rpm, and pushes you in the back with a frank generosity. The sound, deep and cavernous, is a composition in itself. You ride for the atmosphere, for those good vibrations that shake the viscera, much more than to reach 166 km/h in top fifth gear.

The riding position, thanks to this Roadster handlebar, is natural and relaxed. At a standstill, the weight of 265 kg fully fueled is felt, but once underway, the beast reveals itself to be surprisingly agile for a Harley. The twin-cradle frame and 39 mm forks offer reassuring stability. The brakes, revised in 2014 with 300 mm discs at the front and standard ABS, have a correct bite without being sharp. It is sufficient for the machine's role.

And speaking of its role, what is it? The Roadster is not a track bike. The limited ground clearance and basic rear shocks will quickly remind you of this if you venture too far into a lean angle. It is also not a touring bike, with its reduced range. No, this 883 is the perfect accomplice for urban rides or country excursions on Sundays. It will appeal to those seeking a style, a character, a unique sound presence. It is an object of emotion at €9490, a piece of America within reach. For the same price, you can get more versatile, more powerful, more technical motorcycles. But none will offer you that goofy smile and that feeling of belonging to a myth, simply by turning the key.