1969 Sportster - Sportsterpedia

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====== 1969 Sportster ======
**Model Production Numbers** \\
  * XLH 2,700
  * XLCH 5,100

**Colors** ((https://www.harleykmodel.com/technical/colors/index.html)) \\
  * XLH
    * Black with Black Wrinkle tank panels and White Strip.
    * Jet Fire Orange with Black Wrinkle tank panels and White Strip.
    * Birch White with Black Wrinkle tank panels.
    * Options:
      * Sparkling Burgundy with Black Wrinkle tank panels and White Strip.
      * Sparkling Blue with Black Wrinkle tank panels and White Strip.
      * Sparkling Gold with Black Wrinkle tank panels and White Strip.
  * XLCH
    * Black with White Strip on tank.
    * Jet Fire Orange with White Strip on tank.
    * Birch White.
    * Options:
      * Sparkling Burgundy with White Strip on tank.
      * Sparkling Blue with White Strip on tank.
      * Sparkling Gold with White Strip on tank.

====== 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. \\ [[techtalk:ih:body01w|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 ((HD Parts Catalog XLH/XLCH-1000 #(99451-78) )) \\ 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. \\

[[sportster_history:99xx-01a|Click Here]] for more specific information on serial numbers and VINs in the Sportsterpedia (including the 1962-1969 Even/Odd Rule). \\

^{{techtalk:miscres:instruction_sheet_header_4.png?nolink&797|}}|||
|  **Engine Serial Number for 1969 Sportsters**  |||
|**Model Year** \\ (first 2 digits)|**Model** \\ (next few digits) \\ (up to 4)|**Sequential** \\ **Serial#** \\ (remaining digits)|
|69|XLH \\ XLCH| (example) \\ 12345|
|  |||
|:::|:::|:::|
|**Example**: (69XLH 12345) indicates a 1969 XLH model and is stamped on the Left Engine Case Between the Cylinders ((1953-1963 HD Parts Catalog backside of front cover))|||
|Example Serial Number on Engine Reads: 69XLH12345|||
|  69  |  XLH  |  12345  |

===== Illustrations =====
The following illustrations are displayed for historic and period specific parts identification only. Refer to the original OEM documents for additional information. ((illustrations from various academic journals)) \\
Click on any illustration below to enlarge. \\

{{:sportster_history:1969_xlch883_right_side.png?direct&400|}} {{sportster_history:1969_xlh883_illust_left_side.png?direct&400|}}

====== Specifications ======
[[techtalk:menu#ironhead_technical_categories|Click Here]] for the main technical menu in the Sportsterpedia. \\
Also see the "Misc Resources" section on the bottom of that page for technical docs and information. \\
==== Model Designations ====
  * XLH, XLCH

==== Dimensions ====
  * Wheelbase: ((Harley-Davidson 1957 - 1969 Service Manual))
    * XLH, 56.5 in / 143.51 cm
    * XLCH, 58-1/2 in / 148.59 cm
  * Overall Length:
    * XLH, 89 in / 226.06 cm
    * XLCH, 83.25 in / 211.45 cm
  * Overall Width:
    * XLH, 34 in / 86.36 cm
    * XLCH, 34 in / 86.36 cm
  * Overall Height:
    * XLH, 40-1/2 in / 103 cm
    * XLCH, 42 in / 106.7 cm
  * Road Clearance:
    * XLH, 5-1/2 in to 6-3/4 in / 13.97 cm to 17.14 cm ((HD 1969 Sportster Service Manual)) (67 and 69 FSMs differ)
    * XLCH, 6-1/2 in to 6-7/8 in / 16.51 cm to 17.46 cm

==== Engine ====  
  * Engine type: 4 cycle Overhead Valves, 45 degree V2 ((Harley-Davidson 1957 - 1969 Service Manual))
  * Hemi-spherical style heads
  * Displacement: 53.9 ci / 883 cc (900 cc advertised)
  * Compression Ratio: 9:1
  * Bore: 3 in / 76.2 mm
  * Stroke: 3.8125 in / 96.8 mm
  * Horsepower: 55 @ 6,300rpm ((Harley-Davidson 1957 - 1969 Service Manual))
  * Taxable Horsepower: 7.2
  * Torque: 52 ft-lb @ 3800 RPM
  * Weight:
    * XLCH - 188lbs.
    * XLH - 204 lbs.
  * Engine serial number stamped on left side case between the two cylinders. \\ [[sportster_history:99xx-01a|Click Here]] for more information on serial numbers and VINs in the Sportsterpedia. 
  * 4 Cams 
  * [[techtalk:ih:oil03|Gear driven type oil pump]]. \\ Oil pump pressure (gauge mounted in place of oil pressure switch):
    * Idle, with spark retarded (Min: 3-7 psi)
    * Normal riding conditions: 10-14 psi (6 psi at 20 mph) 
  * [[techtalk:ih:engctl01|XLH Ignition]]: Battery Ignition System (circuit breaker/points/timer/distributor)
    * Point Gap: .020"
  * [[techtalk:ih:engctl01#magneto_ignition_system|XLCH Ignition]]: Magneto Ignition System
    * Point Gap: .015"
  * Dwell: 90° at 1000 RPM
  * Ignition Timing
    * Advanced - XLH, XLCH: 45° (11/16") BTDC
    * Retarded - XLH: 15° (5/64") BTDC
  * Spark Plugs
    * #4 for everyday use.
    * #5 for hard service.
      * Gap
        * XLH: .025"-.030"
        * XLCH: .020"
  * [[techtalk:ih:carb01#tillotson_hd_carb_1966-1971|Fuel System]]: Tillotson HD carburetor.
  * Starter
    * XLCH: Kick start only.
    * XLH: Electric start only (Prestolite).

==== Capacities =====
 
  * Fuel Capacity: ((Harley-Davidson 1957 - 1969 Service Manual))
    * XLH 4 gal / 15.14 l
    * XLCH 2.2 gal / 8.328 l 
  * Oil Capacity: 3 qts. / 2.83 l
  * Transmission Capacity: 1.5 pints / .71 l

==== Clutch ====
  * Multi-Disc dry clutch-pack with alternate steel and fiber friction plates.((1957-1969 HD FSM pg 4A-3))

==== Drivetrain ====
  * Constant Mesh - right side foot shift ((1957-1969 HD FSM pg 1A-3))
  * Speeds - 4 Forward
  * Number of Sprocket Teeth (XLH / XLCH):
    * XLH:
      * Engine: 34
      * Clutch: 59
      * Transmission: 20
      * Rear Wheel: 51
    * XLCH:
      * Engine: 34
      * Clutch: 59
      * Transmission:
        * E1969 - 20
        * Mid 1969 - 19 (beginning on 11-1-1968 with engine serial No. 69XLCH 5921) ((TSB #582 dated 12-17-1968))
      * Rear Wheel: 51
  * Standard Gear Ratios (XLH / XLCH)
    * 1st: 11.16:1
    * 2nd: 8.08:1
    * 3rd: 6.11:1
    * 4th: 4.42:1

==== Tires ====
Tire pressure (based on a rider weighing app. 150 lbs or more). \\
For each 50 lbs of overload, increase rear tire pressure by 2 lbs, front by 1 lb (but not exceeding manuf max tire pressure). ((1959-1964 HD FSM pg 1A-3)) \\ 

  * XLH / XLCH:
    * Front: 3.25 / 3.50 x 19 (tire Pressure: 16 psi / 1.10 bar) ((HD TSB #516A dated October 15, 1966))
    * Rear: 4.0 x 18 (tire pressure: 20 psi / 1.37 bar) ((HD TSB #516A dated October 15, 1966))
===== Models =====

==== XLH 883 ====
What is the Current KBB Value? ((http://www.kbb.com/motorcycles/harley-davidson/xlh-sportster/1969-harley-davidson-xlh-sportster/trade-in/))   

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==== XLCH 883 ====
What is the Current KBB Value?   ((http://www.kbb.com/motorcycles/harley-davidson/xlch-sportster/1969-harley-davidson-xlch-sportster/trade-in/))                   

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===== External Links =====
[[https://www.harleykmodel.com/literature/spare-parts-catalogs/documents/99451-69/99451-69.pdf|1969 Parts Manual]] (2.51mb)((https://www.harleykmodel.com/literature/spare-parts-catalogs/documents/99451-69/99451-69.pdf))

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