The 1957 XL Sportster motorcycle introduced the Sportster title, as well as a welcome upgrade in performance, towards the Harley lineup. The 1957 Harley-Davidson XL Sportster motorbike looked very very similar to the Harley-Davidson KH model, nonetheless it was relatively quicker.
With the K series introduced in 1952 receiving a lukewarm reception -- not to mention consistently beaten by smaller British twins -- Harley-Davidson had good explanation to introduce the Sportster.
With overhead valves topping a 55-cubic-inch V-twin, the Sportster lived as much as its title, proving relatively quicker than its predecessor.
Save for its overhead-valve engine, the Sportster looked very similar on the last KH versions -- as it was. Telescopic front forks and swingarm rear suspension carried more than, as did most styling components save the two-tone paint treatment method and tank badge.
Even the engine's primary case looked acquainted, the new a single differing only in that it had "SPORTSTER" cast into its side.
Like the K-series bikes, Sportsters had their shifters and drive chains on the right, whereas Harley's big FLs had them on the left.
In the case of the shifters in particular, this might seem odd, as riders moving up would have to learn to shift with all the other foot. But the XL was mimicking British makes, which were its intended target.
Continue towards the next page to see more 1957 Harley-Davidson XL Sportster pictures.
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