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|
 1957 XL | |
| Manufacturer | Harley-Davidson |
|---|---|
| Also called | XL |
| Production | 1957-present |
| Predecessor | Harley-Davidson KHK |
The Harley-Davidson Sportster is a line of motorcycles produced continuously since 1957 by Harley-Davidson. Sportster models are designated in Harley-Davidson's product code by beginning with "XL". In 1952, the predecessors to the Sportster, the Model K Sport and Sport Solo motorcycles, were introduced. These models K, KK, KH, and KHK of 1952 to 1956 had a sidevalve ('flat head') engine, whereas the later XL Sportster models use an overhead valve engine. The first Sportster in 1957 had many of the same features of the KH including the frame, fenders, large gas tank and front suspension.[1]
The original Sportster line was discontinued in Europe in 2020 because the engine failed to meet the stricter Euro 5 emissions standards.[2] An all-new model, called the Sportster S and equipped with the Revolution Max engine, was introduced in 2021. It was the first motorcycle under the Sportster nameplate to receive a new engine since 1986, and the first Sportster to have an engine not derived from the Model K.[3]
- ^ Margie Siegal (May–June 2011). "1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL". Motorcycle Classics. Retrieved 2011-05-19.
- ^ Purvis, Ben (9 March 2021). "Harley-Davidson Looks to Revive the Nightster Nameplate". Cycle World. Retrieved 2021-04-08.
- ^ Hyatt, Kyle. "Harley-Davidson debuts its super rowdy 2021 Sportster S". Roadshow. Retrieved 2021-07-14.