There was no frame identification for purpose of ownership on 1957-1969 model Sportsters.
However, there were stampings on the different parts of the frame combined with certain features that can be used to date the frame.
Click Here to view Ironhead Frame Identification in the Sportsterpedia.

The only numbers for the purpose of identification were on the engine case.

• For 1957-1961 models, the engine serial number is stamped on the left side of the engine case between the two cylinders.
  First 4 or 5 digits are the year and bike model followed by a series of 4 or 5 numbers that established the individual serial number for each bike.
  

Click Here for more information on serial numbers and VINs in the Sportsterpedia.

• Engine type: 4 cycle Overhead Valves, 45 degree V2 ¹⁾
• Displacement: 54 ci / 883 cc
• Hemi-spherical style heads
• Bore: 3 in / 7.62 cm ²⁾
• Stroke: 3.8125 in / 9.68 cm ³⁾
• 90 Degree Valve Angle
• Horsepower: 42 @ 5,500rpm (XL) ⁴⁾

⁵⁾

• Fuel capacity: 4 gal / 15.14 l (XLCH 2.2 gal / 8.328 l)⁶⁾
• Oil Capacity: 3 qts. / 2.83 l ⁷⁾
• Transmission Capacity: 1.5 pints / .71 l ⁸⁾
• MPG: 50mpg (est.)

• Weight: 495 lb / 225 kg

⁹⁾

• Constant Mesh - Foot shift
• Speeds - 4 Forward
• Number of Sprocket Teeth
  • Engine: 34
  • Clutch: 59
  • Transmission: 21 (XLCH 20)
  • Rear Wheel: 51
• Gear Ratios (XL,XLH)
  • 1st: 10.63 to 1
  • 2nd: 7.69 to 1
  • 3rd: 5.82 to 1
  • 4th: 4.21 to 1
• Gear Ratios (XLCH)
  • 1st: 11.16:1
  • 2nd: 8.08:1
  • 3rd: 6.11:1
  • 4th: 4.42:1

• Front and rear: 3.50 x 18
• Tire pressure
  • Front: 14 psi / .96 bar
  • Rear: 18 psi / 1.24 bar

• 2,014 produced
• 1961 offered a creased edge on the fuel tank.

$1,250 (when new)¹⁰⁾ What is the Current KBB Value? ¹¹⁾

$1,335 (when new)¹²⁾ What is the Current KBB Value? ¹³⁾

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