Introduced in 1957, having evolved from the K-Model (1952-1956), the Sportster was given the letters "XL" and its engine was listed as 55 cu. in. or 883 cc. In 1958, the letters "XLH" were applied when the compression ratio was increased as an option along with larger valves. Some would say that "H" stood for 'hot,' as in a hotter engine setup, or the next step beyond basic (as evidenced by the JDH, VLH and the FLH). XL? The "X" was used only once before in a prefix status for the experimental World War II "XA" shaft-driven Harley-Davidson motorcycle. "XL" had appeared in 1928 as a designation for a 74-inch Special Sport Solo Twin with Dow Metal Pistons, but as a suffix ("JDXL"), and it is doubtful that there would be any implied reference to it in 1957.

One thinks of the 1919 Sport Model and, ultimately, the 1949 Hydra-Glide although it was introduced as an FL with Hydra-Glide forks and soon became known purely as the Hydra-Glide by name. Forecar, Package Truck, Servi-car, these were all early names that indicated commercial class vehicles but it was not until the Sport Model that we did a specifically named motorcycle model - and then came the Sportster. And what a name! The Sportster moniker said it all.

Kickstart until late in 1967 when the XLH got an electric starter (while the racing XLCH with magneto stayed a kicker), "lOOOcc engine in 1972, the Sportster went though many improvements without ever losing its personae. The Sportster was celebrated in 1982 with a 25th Anniversary edition, in 1987 with a 30th Anniversary model and, in 1978, with 75th Harley-Davidson Motor Company Anniversary trim. In 1981, what was known as the Milwaukee edition Sportster spoke to the return of the Motor Company's roots after AMF ownership.

One of the bits of old lore in the Harley-Davidson rider's worn saddlebag is that Sportsters are 'paperboy bikes' and such. While this is a jest made in fun by Big Twin devotees, it has its place in the worn- out lore of past days around the campfire. Some Sportster riders like to set up their bikes as though they were little twins, others follow a more cafe style of personalization, some do a muscle bike or a chopper.-

In 1986 there was a brand new chapter in the Sportster book. The Evolution 883cc was unveiled just before the standard '86 model introduction process. The Evolution XLH-1100, which ran only two years until it was punched-out to 1200cc's, was introduced in 1986. 3,077 XLH 1100's were produced in 1986. Also 954 units were Liberty Editions, endorsing the refurbishing of the Statue of Liberty. Some 8,026, 883's were manufactured with an additional 2,322 produced as upgraded versions.

The Evolution Sportster was a calculated gamble. The 883 was a loss leader. It was intended to bring new riders into the fold. The concept called for Sportster owners moving up to a Big Twins. It was a gamble that paid off.

The evolved Sportster engine was more innovative than it appeared. The cases were altered to accommodate a new front engine mount, and the barrels and heads were cast aluminum. The 883 had a three-inch bore, and the 1100 had a 3.35-inch bore. Both had a 3.8125-inch stroke. The 883 carried a suggested retail price of $3,995, reinforcing the loss leader notion. But for another $75.00 one could get a candy red or blue paint job instead of the standard black. The alloy XL engine's spin-on oil filter was located in the generator's previous home. The latter was replaced with an alternator (installed inside the primary case behind the diaphragm and the clutch). The 883 and the 1100 had four forward speeds.

A semi-new model in the Sportster was labeled the Hugger. It was lower. Again, the platform was being used to bring in new riders - shorter ones. Although not really pushed as such, women riders who might prefer a smaller machine. The Hugger to this day attracts both genders with short inseams and/or riders wanting a generally more diminutive Harley-Davidson.

The 1100 hung on until 1987. In 1988 the Sporty model was bumped to 1200 cc's.

New 2004 1200 Sportster.

When the Evolution Sportster hit showroom floors there was no longer any hesitation about straddling one. The merits of the Evolution Sportster caused many to join the Hariey-Davidson family of riders. A new day of the venerable Sportster had begun.

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