1998 Sportster - Sportsterpedia

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====== 1998 Sportster ======

===== Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) =====

Example: <font 12.0pt/inherit;;inherit;;inherit>1HD1CHP16WY201624</font>    appears on steering head. Abbreviated VIN appears on engine crankcase - CHP16WY201624

| \\  **Motorcycle Origin**   | \\  **Manufacturer/ Make**   | \\  **Motorcycle Displacement Type**   | \\  **Model Designation**   | \\  **Engine Size**   | \\  **Introduction Date / Special Models**   | \\  **VIN Check Digit**   | \\  **Model Year**   | \\  **Assembly Plant**   | \\  **Serial Number**   |
|Made in USA |Harley Davidson |1 = 901 cc & up \\ 4 = 351-900 cc | \\ CA = XLH 883 \\ CE = XLH 883 Hugger \\ CA= XLH 1200 \\ CG = XL 1200C Custom \\ CH = XL 1200S Sport |M = 883 CC ENGINE \\ P = 1200 CC ENGINE |1 = Regular \\ 2 = Mid Year Intro Date \\ 3 = California Models |Can be \\ 0 - 9 or X |W = 1998 | \\ Y = YORK, PA \\   \\ K = Kansas City, MO |  |
|1 |HD |1 |CH |P |1 |6 |W |Y |201624 |

\\

===== Engine, Drivetrain, Performance =====

==== Engine- 883 ====

  * Air Cooled, Overhead Valve, V-twin Evolution®
  * Type: 4 Cycle, 45'V
  * Bore: 3.000 in. / 76.20 mm
  * Stroke: 3.812 in. / 96.82 mm
  * Piston Displacement: 53.9 ci / 883 cc 
  * Compression Ratio: 9.0 to 1
  * Horsepower: 57 @ 6,000 rpm
  * Fuel System: Carburetor - 40 mm constant velocity with enrichener and accelerator pump
  * Carburetor Model Number:
      * 27495-96A (California models only- XLH883, XLH883 Hugger) 
      * 27490-96A (Domestic XLH883 & HLH883 Hugger)
      * 27031-95A (HDI XLH883 & XLH883 Hugger)
  * Carburetor Main Jet: 160  (49 State)((1998-2003)) , 170  (California)((1998-2003)) , 190  (HDI) ((1998 only))
  * Carburetor Slow Jet: 42  Domestic ((1996-2003)),  HDI((1995-2003)) ,  Swiss models ((1996-2003))
  * Engine Idle Slow Speed: 1050 rpm
  * Engine speed for setting ignition timing: 1050 - 1500
  * Fuel Tank Capacity: 3.2 US Gallons
  * Oil Tank Capacity w/Filter: 3 qt / 2.8 liters

=== Specifications ===



=== Drivetrain ===

  * Primary Drive: Triple- Row Chain
  * Primary Drive Front Gear: 35 Teeth
  * Primary Drive Rear Gear: 56 Teeth
  * Primary Drive Ratio: 1.60:1
  * Final Drive: 128 Tooth Secondary Drive Belt 
  * Final Drive Transmission Sprocket: 27 Teeth ((1993-2003 final drive trans/rear wheel sprocket-final drive ratio))
  * Final Drive Rear Wheel Sprocket: 61 Teeth
  * Final Drive Ratio: 2.26 : 1
  * Transmission- Trap Door Style, Constant Mesh Type 5-speed 
  * Gear Ratios (overall)- Domestic and HDI ((Domestic 1995-2003)) - ((HDI 1993-2003))
      * 1st: 9.71
      * 2nd: 7.12
      * 3rd: 5.18
      * 4th: 4.26
      * 5th: 3.61
 === Performance ===

  * Engine Torque Testing Method:
  * Engine Torque:Torque: 53 ft-lb @ 4,500 rpm ((1998-2003))
  * Lean Angle, Right (deg.):
  * Lean Angle, Left (deg.):
  * Fuel Economy, Combined City/Highway:

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==== Engine- 1200 ====

  * Air Cooled,Overhead Valve, V-twin Evolution®
  * Type: 4 Cycle, 45'V
  * Bore: 3.498 in. / 88.85 mm
  * Stroke: 3.812 in. / 96.82 mm
  * Piston Displacement: 73.3 ci / 1201 cc 
  * Compression Ratio: 9.0 to 1
  * Horsepower: 66 @ 5,200 rpm ((1998-2003))
  * Fuel System: Carburetor - 40 mm constant velocity with enrichener and accelerator pump
  * Carburetor Model Number:
      * 27498-96A (California models only- XL1200, XLH1200C) 
      * 27480-97A (Domestic XL1200, HL1200C)
      * 27076-95A (HDI XL1200, XL1200C)
  * Carburetor Main Jet 1200-1200C only: 170  (49 State)((1997-2003)) , 185 (California) ((1993-2003)), 190  (HDI- All) ((1995-1998))
  * Carburetor Slow Jet: 42  Domestic ((1996-2003)),  HDI ((1995-2003)),  Swiss models ((1996-2003))
  * Engine Idle Slow Speed: 1050 rpm
  * Engine speed for setting ignition timing: 1050 - 1500
  * Fuel Tank Capacity: 3.2 U.S. Gallons
  * Oil Tank Capacity w/Filter: 3 qt / 2.8 liters

=== Specifications ===

=== Drivetrain ===

  * Primary Drive: Triple- Row Chain
  * Primary Drive Front Gear: 35 Teeth
  * Primary Drive Rear Gear: 56 Teeth
  * Primary Drive Ratio: 1.60:1
  * Final Drive: 128 Tooth Secondary Drive Belt 
  * Final Drive Transmission Sprocket: 29 Teeth ((1993-2003 final drive trans/rear wheel sprocket-final drive ratio))
  * Final Drive Rear Wheel Sprocket: 61 Teeth
  * Final Drive Ratio: 2.10:1
  * Transmission- Trap Door Style, Constant Mesh Type 5-speed
  * Gear Ratios (overall) Domestic and HDI ((Domestic 1995-2003)) - ((HDI 1997-2003))
      * 1st: 9.04
      * 2nd: 6.62
      * 3rd: 4.82
      * 4th: 3.97
      * 5th: 3.36

=== Performance ===

  * Engine Torque Testing Method:
  * Engine Torque:Torque: 72 ft-lb @ 4,000 rpm ((1998-2003))
  * Lean Angle, Right (deg.):
  * Lean Angle, Left (deg.):
  * Fuel Economy, Combined City/Highway:


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==== Engine- 1200S ====

  * Air Cooled,Overhead Valve, V-twin Evolution®
  * Type: 4 Cycle, 45'V
  * Bore: 3.498 in. / 88.85 mm
  * Stroke: 3.812 in. / 96.82 mm
  * Piston Displacement: 73.3 ci / 1201 cc 
  * Compression Ratio: 10.0 to 1 ((1998-2003))
  * Horsepower: 69 @ 5,500 rpm
  * Fuel System: Carburetor - 40 mm constant velocity with enrichener and accelerator pump
  * Carburetor Model Number:
      * 27732-98A (California models only- XL1200S) 
      * 27731-98A (Domestic models XL1200S)
      * 27733-98 (HDI Switzerland models only- XL1200S)
      * 27734-98 (HDI models- XL1200S)
  * Fuel Capacity: 3.30 US gal. / 12.5 liters, Reserve 0.50 US gal. / 1.9 Liters
  * Carburetor Main Jet: 195  Domestic ((1998-2003)),  HDI ((1998 only))
  * Carburetor Slow Jet: 42 
  * Engine Idle Slow Speed: 1050 rpm
  * Engine speed for setting ignition timing: 1050 - 1500
  * Oil Tank Capacity w/Filter: 3 qt / 2.8 liters
  * Ignition: Single Fire Twin Plug Ignition System

=== Specifications ===



=== Drivetrain ===

  * Primary Drive: Triple- Row Chain
  * Primary Drive Front Gear: 35 Teeth
  * Primary Drive Rear Gear: 56 Teeth
  * Primary Drive Ratio: 1.60:1
  * Final Drive: 128 Tooth Secondary Drive Belt ((1996-2003 final drive trans/rear wheel sprocket-final drive ratio))
  * Final Drive Transmission Sprocket: 29 Teeth
  * Final Drive Rear Wheel Sprocket: 61 Teeth
  * Final Drive Ratio: 2.10:1
  * Transmission- Trap Door Style, Constant Mesh Type 5-speed 
  * Gear Ratios (overall) Domestic  ((Domestic 1996-2003)) 
         * 1st: 9.04
         * 2nd: 6.62
         * 3rd: 4.82
         * 4th: 3.97
         * 5th: 3.36
=== Performance ===

  * Engine Torque Testing Method:
  * Engine Torque:Torque: 76 ft-lb @ 4,000 rpm ((1998-2003))
  * Lean Angle, Right (deg.):
  * Lean Angle, Left (deg.):
  * Fuel Economy, Combined City/Highway:

===== Specifications =====

==== Engine ====
  * **Top End**

|

  * **Bottom End**
 



  * **Oiling- Lubrication**
    * Engine is force fed by a dual purpose, gerotor style, oil/ scavenger pump.
    *See engine oiling cycle: [[how_to:evooiling:start|Oil Cycle]]
==== Transmission ====
**All Models**
  * Clutch:
      * Wet multi-disk clutch pack
      * 6 steel plates, 8 friction fiber plates, 1 spring plate
      * Plate Order: F-ST-F-ST-F-ST-F-SP-F-ST-F-ST-F-ST-F 
      * Max Warpage: Friction Plate or Steel Plate- 0.0059 in. / 0.150 mm

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==== Wheel Options/ Accompanying Tires ====

  * **__Front__**- Cast- Tubeless:
      * XL883, XL883 Hugger, XL1200 and XL1200S: ((Harley Davidson Parts Manual, pg 53, Item 8,13))
        * 19in.(T19 x 2.15 MT)-(Silver)- 13 Spoke
      * XL1200:
        * 19in. (T19 x 2.15 MT)-(Black)- 13 Spoke
      * All Wheels
        * Rim Valve Hole Dia.: 0.45in
        * Tire/Size: Dunlop D401 Elite S/T- 100/90-19
        * Tire/Size: Dunlop K591 S&FR ELITE- 100/90-V19
  * **__Front__**- Laced:
      * XL883, XL883 Hugger, XL1200 and XL1200S: ((Harley Davidson Parts Manual, pg 55, Item 10))
        * 19in. (T19 x 2.50 TLA)-(Chrome)- 20 Spoke
        * Tire/ Size: Dunlop D401 Elite S/T- 100/90-19      
        * Tube Size: MJ90-19
      * XL1200C: 
        * 21in. (T21 x 215 TLA)-(Chrome) 20 Spoke
        * Tire/ Size: Dunlop Touring Elite II- MH90-21 56H
        * Tube Size: 3.00 x 21
  * **__Rear__**- Cast- Tubeless: 
      * XL883, XL883 Hugger, XL1200S: ((Harley Davidson Parts Manual, pg 57, Item 8))
        * 16in. (T16 X 3.00 D)-(Silver) 13 Spoke
      * XL1200:
        * 16in. (T16 X 3.00 D)-(Black) 13 Spoke
      * XL1200C:
        * Solid w/ Slots
      * All Wheels:
        * Rim Valve Hole Dia.: 0.35in
        * Tire/Size: Dunlop D401 Elite S/T- 130/90-16
        * Tire/Size: Dunlop K591 S&FR ELITE- 130/90-V16
  * **__Rear__**- Laced:
      * All Models: ((Harley Davidson Parts Manual, pg 59, Item 10))
        * 16in. (T16 X 3.00 D)-(Chrome) 40 Spoke
        * Tire/ Size: Dunlop D401 Elite S/T- 130/90- 16 (except XL1200C)
        * Tire/ Size: Dunlop Touring Elite II- MT-90-B16 (XL1200C only)
        * Tube Size: MT90-16 (all Models)

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===== Models =====

==== XLH 883 ====
  * $5,395 Suggested List Price (when new)((http://www.nadaguides.com/Motorcycles/1998/Harley-Davidson/XL-883-SPORTSTER-883cc/Values))  What is the Current KBB Value?  ((http://www.kbb.com/motorcycles/harley-davidson/xl-sportster-883/1998-harley-davidson-xl-sportster-883/trade-in/))
=== Dimensions ===

  * Wheelbase: 60.2 in. / 1,529 mm
  * Overall Length: 87.6 in. / 2,225 mm
  * Overall Width: 33 in. / 838 mm
  * Overall Height: 47.5 in. / 1,207 mm
  * Road Clearance: 6.70 in. / 170.2 mm
  * Weight: 488 lb. / 221 kg (as shipped from factory)
  * GVWR is printed on a label on the frame steering head
  * Gross Vehicle Weight Ratings;
  * GVWR: 948 lb. / 430 kg
  * GVWR-Front: 353 lb. / 160 kg
  * GVWR-Rear: 595 lb. / 270 kg
  * Fuel Capacity: 3.30 US gal. / 12.5 liters
  * Oil Tank capacity with filter: 3 US qt.


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==== XLH 883 Hugger ====
  * $6,095 Suggested List Price (when new)((http://www.nadaguides.com/Motorcycles/1998/Harley-Davidson/XL-883-HUGGER-883cc/Values))  What is the Current KBB Value?  ((http://www.kbb.com/motorcycles/harley-davidson/xl-sportster-883-hugger/1998-harley-davidson-xl-sportster-883-hugger/trade-in/))
=== Dimensions ===

  * Wheelbase: 59.0 in. / 1,499 mm
  * Overall Length: 87.25 in. / 2,216 mm
  * Overall Width: 35 in. / 889 mm
  * Overall Height: 49.75 in / 1,264 mm
  * Road Clearance: 4.50 in. / 114.3 mm
  * Weight: 485 lb. / 220 kg (as shipped from factory)
  * GVWR is printed on a label on the frame steering head
  * Gross Vehicle Weight Ratings;
  * GVWR: 948 lb. / 430 kg
  * GVWR-Front: 353 lb. / 160 kg
  * GVWR-Rear: 595 lb. / 270 kg
  * Fuel Capacity: 3.30 US gal. / 12.5 liters
  * Oil Tank capacity with filter: 3 US qt.


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==== XLH 1200 ====
  * $7,985 Suggested List Price (when new) ((http://www.nadaguides.com/Motorcycles/1998/Harley-Davidson/XL1200-SPORTSTER-1200cc/Values))  What is the Current KBB Value?  ((http://www.kbb.com/motorcycles/harley-davidson/xl-sportster-1200/1998-harley-davidson-xl-sportster-1200/trade-in/))
=== Dimensions ===

  * Wheelbase: 60.2 in. / 1,529 mm
  * Overall Length: 87.6 in. / 2,225 mm
  * Overall Width: 35 in. / 889 mm
  * Overall Height: 47.5 in. / 1,207 mm
  * Road Clearance: 6.70 in. / 170.2 mm
  * Weight: 494 lb. / 224 kg (as shipped from factory)
  * GVWR is printed on a label on the frame steering head
  * Gross Vehicle Weight Ratings;
  * GVWR: 948 lb. / 430 kg
  * GVWR-Front: 353 lb. / 160 kg
  * GVWR-Rear: 595 lb. / 270 kg
  * Fuel Capacity: 3.30 US gal. / 12.5 liters
  * Oil Tank capacity with filter: 3 US qt.


{{:sportster_history:1998_1200xlh_by_graywolf.jpg?direct&300|}}  ((photo by Graywolf of the XLFORUM))


  * 1998 1200 XLH


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==== XL 1200C Custom====
  * $9,045 Suggested List Price (when new)((http://www.nadaguides.com/Motorcycles/1998/Harley-Davidson/XL1200C-CUSTOM-1200cc/Values))  What is the Current KBB Value?  ((http://www.kbb.com/motorcycles/harley-davidson/xl-sportster-1200-custom/1998-harley-davidson-xl-sportster-1200-custom/trade-in/))
=== Dimensions ===

  * Wheelbase: 59.0 in. / 1,499 mm
  * Overall Length: 87.25 in. / 2,216 mm
  * Overall Width: 35 in. / 889 mm
  * Overall Height: 49.75 in. / 1,264 mm
  * Road Clearance: 6.70 in. / 170.2 mm
  * Weight: 483 lb. / 219 kg (as shipped from factory)
  * GVWR is printed on a label on the frame steering head
  * Gross Vehicle Weight Ratings;
  * GVWR: 948 lb. / 430 kg
  * GVWR-Front: 353 lb. / 160 kg
  * GVWR-Rear: 595 lb. / 270 kg
  * Fuel Capacity: 3.30 US gal. / 12.5 liters
  * Oil Tank capacity with filter: 3 US qt.


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==== XL 1200C Custom Anniversary ====
  * $9,345 Suggested List Price (when new) ((http://www.nadaguides.com/Motorcycles/1998/Harley-Davidson/XL1200C-CSTM-ANN-1200cc/Values))  What is the Current KBB Value?  ((http://www.kbb.com/motorcycles/harley-davidson/xl-sportster-1200-custom-anniversary/1998-harley-davidson-xl-sportster-1200-custom-anniversary/trade-in/))
==== XL 1200S Sport====
  * $8,395 Suggested List Price (when new)((http://www.nadaguides.com/Motorcycles/1998/Harley-Davidson/XL1200S-SPORT-1200cc/Values))  What is the Current KBB Value?  ((http://www.kbb.com/motorcycles/harley-davidson/xl-sportster-1200-sport/1998-harley-davidson-xl-sportster-1200-sport/trade-in/))

  * Though the chassis is the same as those used in the first (1996-1997) of the 1200S models, you can immediately identify a '98 Sport because of its two-spark-plugs-per-cylinder heads and the unique finishes chosen for the engine. The gray spark leads of the dual-plug system are just the tip of the ignition system iceberg. The entire system is new. Four-pole coils get precise instructions from a black box which considers information from an intake-manifold-pressure sensor and "six-blip" rotor cup to map precise ignition timing for any given load and rpm combination. There is also a diagnostics hook-up to assist Harley technicians with troubleshooting.

  * In addition to the high-tech electronics, the Sportster S benefits from a point more compression (a 10.0:1 ratio instead of the standard 1200's 9.0:1), less restrictive mufflers, and special camshaft profiles. Harley says that the changes boost the 1200's torque by an average of 15 percent throughout the range and almost 10 percent (78 versus 71 foot-pounds) at 4000 rpm. All '98 Sportsters have a more efficient oil pump to improve scavenging from the dry sump. Running the quarter-mile in 13.39 seconds at 95.2, the Sport is, by a slim margin, the quickest Harley in recent memory, even outrunning the light 1200 Custom. The Sport also feels stronger and slightly more responsive at all rpm, and is most improved at the normal operating rpm. You can feed it full throttle at 2000 rpm without lugging, and it will pull to 6000 rpm. However, the engine's mechanical capabilities limit high-rpm operation less than the rider's tolerance for vibration. By 4000 rpm, the shaking, particularly through the short handlebar, is pretty uncomfortable. On the road, you're massaged with a low-frequency shake of moderate amplitude at 55 mph, but the speed and power of the vibration begin to infringe on comfort by 65 mph and make it downright unpleasant by 75 mph.

  * The riding position is also unique. With its narrow, low-rise handlebar and footpegs set at the height of a sportbike but further forward, the rider's posture doesn't fall into any typical categories. Though shorter riders felt it worked, taller riders felt "kind of curled up," particularly in the leg area. Most said they wanted the pegs lower or further rearward. The special saddle does afford a bit more room than the last 883 Sporty we sampled. Though narrow and not endowed with lots of padding, the saddle is acceptable for a couple of hours without a pause.

  * Gear changes were smoother and quieter than those of any Harley we have ever tested, and good by any standard. The throw is short and engagement positive.  The clutch also performed well.

  * The "Sport" aspect of the bike derives not only from the enhanced engine performance and riding position, but also from the suspension and brakes. Besides the usual adjustment for spring preload at the rear, the 1200S offers adjustments for spring preload up front and damping resistance at both ends, both for compression and extension. The piggyback-style reservoir shocks and 39mm cartridge fork are same ones used on previous XL Sports. On smooth roads, it's possible to set up the suspension to minimize pitching movements when you apply and remove cornering and braking loads. With damping resistance turned up, the Sport becomes very stable while charging corners. Combined with steering geometry that's designed for stability and slow, deliberate steering, this makes the bike ultra-steady in smooth corners, even very fast ones. However, we couldn't find a setting that provided a smooth ride over sharp-edged bumps or big bumps. Dialing back the damping resistance helped, but with limited travel it simply can't handle every road irregularity with aplomb.

  * The brakes get Harley's usual single-piston calipers, but there are two up front, and a strong squeeze can generate impressive deceleration, at least by cruiser standards. You can use either end's brakes confidently without fear of unwanted lock-up.

  * Styling: Though the Sport's '98 color palette is limited to black, the blacked-out treatment extends to many unique corners, including the mirrors, headlight eyebrow, handlebar, and rear fender rails. The engine has a variety of complementary finishes that also make it distinctive. The racing-style saddle and checkered-flag tank logo distinguish the Sport from any other machine. Though the vibration would make us reluctant to choose it for long-distance rides, Harley Sportster 1200 Sport provides more punch around town than other H-Ds and can provide hours of pleasure on winding roads. Its distinctive styling makes it a natural choice for riders who like the brand but don't want a me-too Harley cruiser.  ((http://www.motorcyclecruiser.com/motorcycle-road-test-harley-davidson-xl1200s-sportster-sport  ))




=== Dimensions ===

  * Wheelbase: 60.2 in. / 1,529 mm
  * Overall Length: 87.6 in. / 2,225 mm
  * Overall Width: 35 in. / 889 mm
  * Overall Height: 49.75 in. / 1,264 mm
  * Road Clearance: 6.70 in. / 170.2 mm
  * Weight: 497 lb. / 225.6 kg (as shipped from factory)
  * GVWR is printed on a label on the frame steering head
  * Gross Vehicle Weight Ratings;
  * GVWR: 948 lb. / 430 kg
  * GVWR-Front: 353 lb. / 160 kg
  * GVWR-Rear: 595 lb. / 270 kg  * 
  * Oil Tank capacity with filter: 3 US qt.
  * 
  * 
  *

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{{:sportster_history:20160207_222053_zpskuageqqg.jpg?direct&300 |}}


1998 XL 1200S  ((photo provided by Steelworker of the XLFORUM))


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