History of the Harley-Davidson Sportster
Written by Carly Hallman
The Harley Davidson Sportster had been produced since the late 1950s but its roots date back as early as 1919 with the iconic Model W motorcycle, which featured a unique flat-twin engine. The Sportster has seen many changes over the years but one thing has always stayed the same: the die-hard fanbase behind them. Whether someone is just getting into motorcycling or has been riding motorcycles for decades, the H-D Sportster has all the power and attitude a rider could ever need. Share your Harley Davidson and Sportster memories with us @Titlemax on Twitter.
History of the Harley-Davidson Sportster infographicThe History of the Harley-Davidson Sportster
Pre-Sportster Small Twins
| Name | Engine | Years in Production |
| Model W | 584 cc flathead flat-twin | 1919-1923 |
| D-series 45 | 739 cc flathead | 1929-1932 |
| R-series 45 | 739 cc flathead | 1932-1936 |
| Servi-Car | 739 cc flathead | 1932-1973 |
| W-series 45 | 739 cc flathead | 1937-1952 |
| Model K | 750 cc flathead | 1952-1953 |
| Model KR | 750 cc flathead | 1953-1969 |
| Model KH | 888 cc flathead | 1954-1956 |
The Age of the Sportster
| XL Ironhead | 883 cc & 1,000 cc | 1957-1985 |
| XR-750 | 750cc | 1970-1985 |
| XLCR | 1,000 cc | 1977-1978 |
| XR1000 | 1,000 cc | 1983-1984 |
| XL Evolution | 883 cc, 1,100 cc & 1,200 cc | 1986- |
| XR1200 Nightster | 1,200 cc | 2008-2012 |
| XL883N Iron | 883 cc | 2009- |
