Harley Davidson Sportster has been a popular motorcycle in production for over 60 years. It is known for its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and sleek design. However, not all Sportster models are created equal. Some years have been better than others, while others have been outright disasters.
So, which Harley Davidson Sportster years should you avoid? The worst years to avoid are the models from 1980, 1981, 2001, 2004 and 2019. These models had numerous technical faults, from electrical system failures to gearbox issues.
Continue reading to find more about the Sportster years to avoid and why you should, as well as the years to seek instead.
What Are The Harley Sportster Years To Avoid?
The Harley Davidson S has experienced several problems with certain of its models. The following years should be avoided:
- 2019
- 1980
- 2004
- 1981
- 2001
Let us delve deeper into the reasons to avoid them.
1. 2019
Riders reported issues with the electrical system, leading to stalling and other performance issues. And the gearbox’s problems continued, leading to difficulty shifting gears and occasional failures.
These issues were caused by design flaws that resulted in poor quality control and manufacturing processes.
2. 1980
The Sportster faced several problems that impacted the reliability and performance of the motorcycle. One of the most significant issues was the failure of the primary chain tensioner, leading to premature chain wear and costly repairs.
Additionally, there were issues with the engine, including the tendency to overheat and the failure of the rocker arm support system. These issues, which were a major part of the Harley Davidson evolution engine problems , often required costly repairs and impacted the overall riding experience.
3. 2004
The double-cam engine in the 2004 Sportster experienced a number of faults that compromised the motorcycle’s reliability and performance. And this results in frequent failures and costly repairs.
Also, the hydraulic lifters on the engine frequently failed, resulting in a noisy and unpredictable ride. These problems were caused by ineffective design and production procedures.
4. 1981
The 1981 Sportster was also problematic due to poor handling and numerous technical issues. Thus, the vibrations were a significant issue, leading to rider discomfort and handling problems.
Likewise, the electrical system was also prone to failure, leaving riders stranded on the side of the road. These issues impacted the overall reliability and safety of the motorcycle.
5. 2001
In 2001, the Sportster faced significant gearbox problems, leading to difficulty shifting gears and occasional gearbox failures.
These issues were especially problematic for riders who frequently rode their motorcycles for extended periods. The gearbox’s problems were caused by design flaws that resulted in poor lubrication and insufficient cooling.
The Best Harley Davidson Sportster Years To Buy
Now that you know the Sportster years to avoid, it is vital that you know which ones to go for. Here is a table showing the best years of the Sportster.
| Name of Sportster Model | Year |
| Harley XL Sportster Ironhead | 1957 |
| Harley Sportster XLH | 1967 |
| Harley Sportster XLH | 1969 |
| Harley Sportster | 1971 |
| Harley Sportster | 1978 |
| Harley Sportster XLX61 | 1983 |
| Harley-Davidson Sportster | 2005 |
| Harley CRD XR 1200 | 2010 |
| Harley XL883N IRON 883 | 2014 |
Here is a deep dive into these years and their models.
1. 2014
The Harley XL 883N IRON 883, released in 2014, is considered one of the best years for the motorcycle. That’s due to the numerous improvements made to the engine’s design and performance. This model has gained a reputation for reliability and is popular among new and experienced riders.
2. 2010
This is another year to consider when looking for the best Sportster model. The XR 1200 also had a sleek, modern design and improved brakes, making it a popular choice among riders.
3. 2005
The Harley-Davidson Sportster for this year is considered one of the best years for the motorcycle. That’s because it has numerous improvements made to the engine’s design and performance.
They had a new rubber-mounted engine, reducing vibration and improving rider comfort. The 2005 Sportster also had an improved suspension system, better handling, and a sleek, modern design.
4. 1983
This year marked the introduction of the new XLX61 model, which had improved handling and performance compared to previous models.
The Harley Sportster XLX61 is known for its no-frills, bare-boned design. This model removed unnecessary features, resulting in a lightweight and simplified motorcycle. The 1983 model was well-received by riders who valued simplicity and reliability.
5. 1978
The Harley Sportster was a game-changer in 1978. It saw the introduction of aluminum wheels and dual-disc front brakes, according to the Harley wheel interchange chart. The siamese exhaust pipes also added to the bike’s aesthetic appeal, making it a popular model among riders.
This 1978 Sportster also had an improved suspension system, better handling, and a more comfortable seat.
6. 1971
The Harley Sportster for 1971 is another excellent year to consider when looking for the best Sportster model.
This had a new “Boattail” rear fender design, which gave the motorcycle a sleek and modern look. It also had an improved suspension system, better handling, and a more powerful engine than previous models.
7. 1969
The Harley Sportster XLH is renowned for its excellent performance in competitions that require fast speeds this year. It features a 54-horsepower engine capable of achieving top speeds of over 100 miles per hour.
This model was also popular among riders who enjoyed customizing their motorcycles. The XLH also had an improved suspension system, better handling, and a more comfortable seat.
8. 1967
The Harley Sportster XLH that came out in 1967 is another year to consider when looking for the best Sportster model.
This year marked the introduction of the electric start, which made starting the motorcycle more accessible and reliable. The XLH also had an improved suspension system, better handling, and a more powerful engine than previous models.
9. 1957
The Harley XL Sportster Ironhead of 1957 is considered one of the best years for the Sportster model.
They featured a new overhead valve motor design, which included one crank pin for both connecting rods. This design resulted in a smoother ride and improved performance, making it a popular model among riders.
Tips to Ensure Your Harley Sportster Performs Effectively
Here are some tips to ensure your Sportster is reliable:
- Regular maintenance: To ensure your Harley-Davidson Sportster is reliable, it’s important to perform regular maintenance. This includes changing the oil and filter, checking and adjusting the clutch and throttle cables, inspecting the brakes, and checking the tire pressure.
- Use quality parts: When replacing parts on your Harley-Davidson Sportster, it’s important to use quality parts. Stick to using genuine Harley-Davidson parts or high-quality aftermarket parts.
- Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations: Harley-Davidson provides guidelines for maintenance and service intervals in the owner’s manual. Following these recommendations is important to ensure your Sportster is running at its best.
- Store your bike properly: If you’re not riding your Sportster for an extended period, it’s important to store it properly. This includes using a battery tender, storing it in a dry and covered area, and preparing the fuel system for storage.
Proper storage helps to prevent issues with starting and running your bike when you’re ready to ride again.
FAQs
Here are a few more additional questions you might be asking now.
Q1: How many miles can a Harley Davidson Sportster last?
On average, a Sportster can last between 50,000 to 100,000 miles or more. Harley Davidson Sportsters are known for their durability and can last for many miles if properly maintained.
However, the lifespan of a Sportster can vary depending on factors such as maintenance, riding conditions, and the model year.
Q2: What is the difference between the Harley Sportster and Softail?
The main difference between the Harley Sportster and Softail is the frame design. The Sportster features a steel, welded frame, while the Softail has a hidden rear suspension system that gives it a more classic, vintage look.
The Sportster is also typically smaller in size and has a lighter weight than the Softail.
Q3: What year did Harley start fuel injection?
Harley Davidson introduced fuel injection to their motorcycles in 1995 with the Harley Davidson Softail model.
It wasn’t until 2007 that fuel injection became standard across all Harley Davidson models, including the Sportster. Before the introduction of fuel injection, carburetors were commonly used to mix air and fuel in the engine.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the worst Sportster years to avoid include the 2019, 1980, 2004, 1981, and 2001 models. These models faced issues with the electrical system, gearbox, and engine, leading to costly repairs and safety concerns.
On the other hand, some Sportster models are highly recommended, such as the 2014, 2010, and 2005. These models have undergone numerous improvements in their design and performance, making them popular among riders. So, it is important to choose a model that offers reliability, safety, and comfort.