​The History of the Harley-Davidson Sportster

The Harley-Davidson® Sportster has a long legacy as one of America's favorite motorcycles. In fact, this versatile machine has been in production since 1957, making it one of the longest continuously produced motorcycles in the entire world. From weekend novices to professional track racers, this impressive bike can please every type of Adamec Harley® rider.

The Early Days

In 1952, the Sportster's predecessor, the Model K, was introduced. The Sportster was first built in 1957 with many of the same characteristics as its ancestor, including the frame, fenders, large gas tank and front suspension. However, whereas Model K motorcycles had a flat head engine, the Sportster boasted a new 55-cubic-inch pushrod overhead valve engine (883 cc).

Only 1,983 units were built in the first year of production, but that soon changed. In 1960, production had jumped almost 40 percent with more than 2,765 units built. By 1974, that number had increased to 23,830 to satisfy the growing number of consumers with Sportster mania after displacement increased from 883 cc to 1,000 cc.

Modern Technology

Throughout its long history as one of America's superbikes, several different models have been unveiled to make the already versatile bike even more adaptive to a broad audience. The Sportster has continued to adopt technological improvement after improvement.

In 1991, the bike updated to a five-speed transmission system, and in 2000, the engine and internal transmission system, front brake calipers, crankshaft and wheelbearings all received significant upgrades. Improved intake and exhaust flow also improved the bike's already tremendous power. And the improvements keep coming.

The 2015 Sportster is now available at Harley-Davidson® dealerships. The lineup includes the SuperLow, Iron 883, 1200 Custom and SuperLow 1200T. Each features the classic agility and style made famous by the Sportster. We are proud to offer this and other exceptional motorcycles in a number of models at Adamec Harley-Davidson®. Take the iconic Sportster out for a test ride and see for yourself why it is one of the best bikes of the both the 20th and the 21st centuries.