The Sportster line of Harley-Davidson motorcycles dates back to 1952 when Harley introduced the K model. The Model K had hydraulic shock absorbers on both wheels, and was the first civilian motorcycle made by Harley to include this feature. In 1957, the American manufacturer upgraded the motorcycle, renaming it the Sportster. The Evolution engine, which Harley introduced to the Sportster in 1986, can still be found in 2008 models. Sportster models for 2008 included the 883, 883 Low, 883 Custom, 1200 Roadster, 1200 Low, 1200 Nightster, and 1200 Custom. The Sportster 1200 Low is the most popular in the series. Introduced in 2006, it was the first Harley to have down draft fuel injection. Harley replaced carburetors with fuel injection in all its models in 2007.
All Sportster cruisers have the same classic look as well as seats that are lower than other Harley models. But they’re not all alike. The Sportster 883 seats only one person while the 1200 Custom has more chrome than any of the other Sportsters. The 1300 Nightster was introduced in 2007, featuring a side-mount license plate and bobbed rear fenders. The Sportster 883 Low was introduced in 2005, and was designed specifically for shorter riders. Sportsters come in a variety of colors, depending on the model. For example, the 2008 Sportster 1200 Low comes in black, white gold, blue, and red, as well as a special 105th anniversary paint job featuring copper pearl and black. Pearlized paint is available in several colors.