1957 Harley-Davidson XL Sportster

FROM THE DICK SHAPPY COLLECTION:

The 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL

Harley-Davidson, Inc. needs no introduction as an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. In 1901, William S. Harley, Arthur Davidson, and brother Walter Davidson began work on their first motorcycle engine. Their first attempt may have been a failure, but they founded Harley-Davidson in 1903 and became one of the largest motorcycle manufacturers by 1920. They produced motorcycles for the United States used in both World War I & II and were one of only two major motorcycle manufacturers to survive the Great Depression. In fact, theyve survived numerous changes to ownership and restructuring, intense global competition, charges of restrictive practices, claims of stock price manipulation, and a constantly evolving view of the company and bikers. Still, they are widely known for their loyal following and now manufacture in Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Brazil, and Thailand. Their classic cruiser style, including high handlebars, low seats, and chrome parts, is easily recognizable. Theyre also noted for their customizability, giving rise to the chopper style of motorcycle, and for the distinct sound of HDs powerful engines.

The 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster is the inaugural model of the iconic Sportster line. Introduced to rival nimble British motorcycles, this lightweight "Ironhead" featured a powerful, revolutionary 55-cubic-inch, 883cc overhead-valve (OHV) V-twin engine. It delivered stronger high-rpm performance and a harder-edged exhaust note than previous flathead engines. This year Sportster is historically unique as the debut year of one of the longest-running motorcycle lines in history. Only 1,983 units were produced, making this first-year roadster highly sought after by collectors. The "XL," for Experimental Lightweight or Extra Light, is simply the factory product code for the Sportster line, as there were no "H" (high-compression) or "CH" (competition) variants in 1957. The XL engine evolved from the earlier K-series side-valve (flathead) models by introducing a high-performance, cast-iron overhead-valve top end. It quickly earned the reputation of an American "sports bike" for its speed and agile handling, remaining in continuous production. Built with a shorter wheelbase, steep neck angle, and an advanced hydraulic suspension system, the 1957 model was incredibly agile and marked the birth of Harley's high-performance muscle era. Original, period-correct 1957 XL Sportsters command a premium due to their historical significance and vehicles available for sale are quite rare.

This 1957 Harley-Davidson Sportster XL has undergone a recent complete restoration and is currently in excellent running condition.


ENGINE: Air-cooled, 4-stroke, 55 cubic inch, 883cc OHV V-twin

HP: 40 at 5,500 RPM

FUEL SYSTEM: Linkert DC-1 carburetor

TRANSMISSION: 4-speed manual constant mesh (right-side foot shift)

STARTING: Kick start

FRAME: Tubular steel (derived from the Model K)

WEIGHT: 495 LB.

FRONT SUSPENSION: Telescopic fork

REAR SUSPENSION: Swingarm with dual shock absorbers

BRAKES: Front and rear expanding drum brakes

WHEELBASE: 56.5 inches

FUEL CAPACITY: 4.4 gallons

MILEAGE: 25,180