A better handling Sportster

Harley has released its 2011 line-up including three all-new models.

We’ve already covered the 2011 Sportster XR1200X, which was first shown in June, but we now have a price: $13,739. It’s a sporty offering with fully adjustable suspension, supersport-spec brakes and dirt-track inspired styling. 

But there’s a new Sportster model that borrows elements from the XR1200X in an entirely different package.

The XL883L SuperLow is yet another Sportster variation, this one claiming the same 670 mm (25.5 in.) seat height as the Sportster Low, but with much improved handling and suspension response based on “lessons learned in the development of the XR1200X."

A better handling Shortster

The improvements come via a change in wheel sizes from the former 16-inch rear and 19-inch front, to the XR1200X-inspired 17-inch rear and 18-inch front, while both ends now roll on radial tires.

Despite the larger rear-wheel diameter, use of a low profile tire has increased tire-to-fender clearance, allowing for more suspension travel without increasing the seat height.

Similarly, the smaller front hoop is claimed to improve steering response, as well as suspension compliance due to reduced mass and inertia. The front and rear suspension has also been recalibrated for improved compliance.

Starting at $9,309, the 883 cc SuperLow will be the lowest-priced motorcycle in the company’s 2011 model line.

Frilly Road Glide

Finally, Harley has added a fully dressed dresser to its touring line-up with the new Road Glide Ultra. The $26,199 Road Glide Ultra features all the frills of the Ultra Classic Electra Glide but uses a frame-mounted fairing.

Upgrades over the standard Road Glide include a Twin Cam 103 (1,690 cc) engine, tour pack, fairing lowers, 80-watt Harmon/Kardon sound system, and everything else you’d want to make the long haul as comfy and entertaining as your home theatre. ABS, cruise control and the H-D Smart Security System are standard.

For info on all the 2011 Harley-Davidsons, visit harley-davidson.com.

Oh Look, another new Sportster.....YAWN. Posted by Gary 28-07-2010 17:26 » Report this comment to administrator At least the XR1200X looks like it might actually handle (for a 600 lb. monster, anyway).... Posted by TK4 28-07-2010 18:43 » Report this comment to administrator I wonder how many of the naysayers have actually tried to have fun on a Harley. Or can ride well enough to do so.    Flame away. Posted by M. McGarvey 28-07-2010 21:05 » Report this comment to administrator I took a 1200 XR out and was actually shocked. I loved the power delivery, the brakes and the feel. The only negative was the peg position. Felt me knee's were in my ears...   Great bike, fun and the best Sporty Ive been on (and thats lots0 Posted by glen M 28-07-2010 21:14 » Report this comment to administrator That new XL883 Super-Low has to be the best lookin' Sportster yet! Clean and sexy! Me want!!!! Posted by Savage 29-07-2010 06:08 » Report this comment to administrator "fun on a harley"  Like "jumbo shrimp"? Posted by Willi 29-07-2010 07:37 » Report this comment to administrator The 883 owned by my father, a bone basic 2005 model, is gutless and has a spaghetti frame, weak brakes. Does that stop me from riding around on it when I'm up there? Does that stop my nieces grinning ear to ear when their father takes them for a spin? Actually, last year for a leisurely cruise around southern Bruce County, taking in an air show and a historical church open house as well as the beach scene, it was almost the perfect bike.    They are beautiful and iconic, and some of them perform very well in their class. And now they are cheap too. Posted by M. McGarvey 29-07-2010 07:46 » Report this comment to administrator +1 to McGarvey    Once in a while I like to put on the half helmet and take my wife's v-star 650 on the cottage roads along Lake Erie. Totally different feel and riding experiance. Posted by Johnson 29-07-2010 08:24 » Report this comment to administrator