Table of Contents
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1963 Sportster
Vehicle Identification
Frame Numbers
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.
Engine Serial Numbers
The only numbers for the purpose of identification were on the engine case.
- The engine serial number is stamped on the left side of the engine case between the two cylinders.
The first 5 or 6 digits represent the year and model 1)
From 1962-1969, models with 4 digit production (serial) numbers have an even-numbered first digit for even years and odd numbered first digit for odd years.
Click Here for more information on serial numbers and VINs in the Sportsterpedia.
Illustrations
The following illustrations are displayed for historic and period specific parts identification only. Refer to the original OEM documents for additional information. 2)
Click on any illustration below to enlarge.
Specifications
Engine
- Engine type: 4 cycle Overhead Valves, 45 degree V2 5)
- Displacement: 54 ci / 883 cc
- Hemi-spherical style heads
- Bore: 3 in / 7.62 cm 6)
- Stroke: 3.8125 in / 9.68 cm 7)
- 90 Degree Valve Angle
- Horsepower: 42 @ 5,500rpm (XL) 8)
XL | XLH,XLCH | |
---|---|---|
Compression | 7.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Torque | 48 ft-lb / 2.023 Nm @ 3600 RPM | 52 ft-lb / 2.191 Nm @ 3800 RPM |
Capacities
Dimensions
- Weight: 495 lb / 225 kg
XL, XLH | XLCH | |
---|---|---|
Wheelbase | 56.6 in / 143.51 cm | 57 in / 137.6 cm |
Overall Length | 87 in / 221 cm | 83.25 in / 211.4 cm |
Overall Width | 34 in / 86.36 cm | 29.5 in / 75 cm |
Overall Height | 40.5 in / 103 cm | 42 in / 106.7 cm |
Road Clearance | 2.5 in / 6.35 cm minimum | 4 1/8 in / 10.478 cm minimum |
Drivetrain
- 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
Tires
Tires Size | XL, XLH | XLCH |
---|---|---|
Front | 3.50 X 18 | 3.25/3.50 X 19 |
Rear | 3.50 X 18 | 4.00 X 18 |
- Tire pressure
- Front: 14 psi / .96 bar
- Rear: 18 psi / 1.24 bar
Models
XLH 883
XLCH 883
$1,355 (when new) with 1,001 produced 19) What is the Current KBB Value? 20)
- 1.323:1 3rd gear ratios (were 1.381) 21)
- Final ratio 5.85:1
- “Shorty Duals” Exhaust
- An ignition key and improved magneto/coil
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