Get ready to rev your engines and embark on an exhilarating ride with the Harley-Davidson Iron 883 (2022). With its rich history and iconic design, this model holds a special place in the heart of motorcycle enthusiasts. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the design, performance, comfort, features, and overall ride experience of the Iron 883. From its powerful engine to its cutting-edge technology, we’ll dive into every aspect that sets this bike apart from the rest. Whether you’re a longtime Harley-Davidson fan or a newcomer to the brand, this article will provide you with valuable insights and a comprehensive understanding of the Harley-Davidson Iron 883 (2022). So, buckle up and let’s hit the road!
Harley-Davidson Iron 883 (2022) – A simple yet elite cruiser experience
Harley-Davidson’s long-running Iron 883 is one of the elementary bikes that keep things simple and deliver a sporty cruiser experience in a rather unintimidating experience. All these things have helped make the Iron 883 a popular entry-level model for the past 13 or so years. The Harley-Davidson Buyer’s Guide 1984-2011 describe these models as the “blacked out version of the standard 883”.
The Harley-Davidson Iron 883 (2022) has a sub-30-inch seat, although it doesn’t change much when you settle yourself on the bucket-style tuck-and-roll solo saddle, which is hugely welcoming. So is the overall compact rider triangle. With a forward-leaning riding position that inspires a sporty attitude while the reach to the bars is comfortable, neither far nor high. The mid-mounted footpegs are neutral instead of delivering a feet-first, stretched feel.
Riding the Harley-Davidson Iron 883 (2022) is a highly rewarding experience. You will immediately feel cool as you are ultimately on a Harley-Davidson. It does not matter that it isn’t a big-inch Softail. The non-two-wheeled crowd does not know that they recognize the brand, the sound, and the look.
2022 Harley-Davidson Iron 883 Review
When it comes to amazing beginner motorcycles, Harley-Davidson might not be known for them but the company still has some bikes that are easier to ride than others. Harley-Davidson bikes are known for being loud and powerful bikes with a unique culture surrounding them. The Harley-Davidson Iron (2022) is one of the best bikes to start with if you are a Harley-Davidson fan. In this in-depth review blog, you will get to better understand what Harley-Davidson Iron 883 (2022) is all about.
Design and styling
One of the things that Harley-Davidson bikes have in common is their impressive style. These bikes are unique looking and unique sounding. The Harley-Davidson Iron 883 (2022) is one of the best-looking Harley-Davidson bikes in my opinion. This bike has a beastly look that seems to be as classic at the same time as it is modern. If you are looking for an aggressive-looking bike, then you should look no further.
The bike has an old-school, pure-motorcycle look pegged. Holding down the fort as the air-cooled Sportster line is fazed out as its classic staggered pipes, twin shocks, peanut tank, and ultra-cooled side-mounted license-plate paint are an appealing picture, and the solo seat is great in itself. It is an amazing package that truly inspires a sense of freedom.
It has a low seat height on the motorcycle, making it easy to flat-foot and giving you a better sense of security when you’re stopped or going slowly. You will require that as the bike is huge, tipping the scales at 564 pounds. At 64 pounds, the bike certainly isn’t loud. Fortunately, maneuvering the bike at slow speeds is encouragingly manageable. The motorcycle’s weight is carried low and with a shorter seat height, it isn’t a handful.
Is that a deal breaker? I certainly don’t think so. I have come across many bikes that are heavy and heaviness means that you’re a bit more stable when you’re traveling on the freeway. If you’ve got a longer commute or you’re planning on taking long road trips, it might be a good idea.
Engine and performance
The engine of the Harley-Davidson Iron 883 (2022) is powered by a 53.9 cu-inch engine. The 883cc air-cooled V-twin powerplant is air-cooled and fuel injected, meaning that you don’t need to mess around with carburetors like you would on an older cruiser bike. The blacked-out and power-coated engine looks exceptional.
With a broad and muscular torque range, the air-cooled V-twin is quite easy to launch off the line. The five-speed transmission features a robust thunk on engagement and works quite well if the shifts are deliberate. I did hit a few false neutrals on upshifts due to sloppy footwork. The clutch lever needs a satisfying squeeze but it is not overly heavy.
Around town, riding takes a bit of shifting. The V-twin’s 73.2 Nm of torque means you simply twist the throttle to hurry through the stale-lighted intersection or roll off and take full advantage of the meaty engine compression braking if traffic is dawdling. When speeds increase, the Iron 883’s suspension reaches its limits quickly, keeping you in check in urban areas. The bike doesn’t engender hurrying. While many riders appreciate the grunt that allows them to get out in front of the queue once the light turns green, they’re happy to cruise along at a moderate speed enjoying the local bustle.
The handling is quite responsive without it being too quick. It is nicely predictable and perfect for the intended audience. Experienced riders know how to take full advantage of the Harley-Davidson Iron 883 (2022) as it takes something to turn the bike at speed. There is enough cornering clearance and grip from the Michelin Scorcher 31 tires for sporty rides if you happen upon a smooth stretch of winding tarmac, although you’ll scrape your pegs on tight, slow turns.
There is a single 300mm disc up front for handling braking duties and the initial engagement of a pleasingly substantial lever is just right, nothing grabby and a linear response as your grasp tightens. While the brake and clutch levers are non-adjustable, the reach isn’t extreme. The rear brake is an amazing supplement to the front, helping you come to soft spots.
| Model Name | Sportster® Iron 883™ |
| Year | 2022 |
| Engine Size | 883 cc (53.9 ci) |
| Engine Type | Evolution® V Twin |
| Horsepower | Not provided |
| Torque | 73.2 Nm @ 3750 RPM |
| Dry Weight | 545 lbs (247.2 kg) |
| Wet Weight | 564 lbs (256 kg) |
| Length | 86 in (2185 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 59.6 in (1515 mm) |
| Ground Clearance | 5.5 in (140 mm) |
| Fuel Capacity | 3.3 gallons (12.5 liters) |
| Fuel Efficiency | 51 US MPG (4.6 L/100km) |
| Seat Height | 29.9 in (759.5 mm) |
| Price | MSRP: $11,249 |
| Cooling | Air |
| Valve Configuration | OHV – Pushrod |
| Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 |
| Starter | Electric |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| Fuel Requirements | Regular |
| Fuel Injector | Yes |
| Transmission Type | Manual |
| Number Of Speeds | 5 |
| Primary Drive (Rear Wheel) | Belt |
| Front Suspension Type | Telescopic Fork |
| Rear Suspension Type | Twin Sided Swing Arm |
| Front Brake Type | Hydraulic Disc |
| Rear Brake Type | Hydraulic Disc |
| Anti-Lock Brakes | Optional |
| Seat Type | One-Piece |
| Number Of Seats | 1 |
Suspension
The Harley-Davidson Iron 883 (2022) is a great candidate for surface road commuting duties thanks to its easy handling, predictable engine response, and ergonomics. With a 51 mpg and 3.3-gallon tank, the narrow bike snakes through congested roads and keeps your filling station stops to a bare minimum.
Suspension travel is rather limited, which is a tradeoff for catering to shorter inseams, with around 3.6 inches in front and 1.6 inches in the rear. Surprisingly, this is a very comfortable ride, even in the maintained streets of the United States. While there is no adjusting the 39mm front fork and just spring-preload tweaking in the rear, the duck shocks do a tremendous job of soaking up the dips and irregularities of the road. You can credit the high-profile rear Michelin Scorcher 31 to help cushion the harsh bumps. Lastly, the 19-inch front wheel truly rolls over the potholes like a champ.
Even though the Harley-Davidson Iron 883 (2022) is a stable bike at freeway speeds, the suspensions can be a limiting factor that will force you into the slow lane if your local freeways happen to be rough. Meanwhile, the upright seating does not work that well at speed as it can be hard to get a good grip on the tank with your legs being at a 90° angle.
What makes the 2022 Harley-Davidson Iron 883 such a special bike?
The Harley-Davidson Iron 883 (2022) is among the most successful bikes in the Harley-Davidson lineup. The primary reason for this bike’s success is how similar it is to the Harley models of yesteryear.
The Harley-Davidson Iron 883 (2022) retains the handsome design and torquey V-twin, both of which make the bike quite appealing in this day and age. Aside from that, it is among the most customizable bikes that money can buy and the mood potential here is infinite. Here are some of the things that make Harley-Davidson Iron 883 (2022) a one-of-a-kind bike.
#1. The air-cooled V-twin motor gives it the proper Harley feel
The Harley-Davidson Iron 883 feels quite similar to the outgoing model year and features the air-cooled 883cc Evolution V-twin motor that produces close to 49 HP and 54 lb-ft of torque. The motor has a distinctive potato sound and the torque on offer is quite addictive. This helps make the ride a lot easier.
The low-end performance is decent too and the peak torque is produced at 4,750 RPM, making it quite easy to move around the city traffic. The 5-speed gearbox has a distinctive clunkiness to it and the gear drops into place with a loud sound. However, a light clutch and short initial gearing make riding around the city easy.
#2. Build quality has improved as well
Over the last few years, Harley-Davidson has made many major changes to its quality control methods and material selection, both of which have greatly contributed to building up the brand’s lost name. The Harley-Davidson Iron 883 (2022) is the perfect example of that.
Unlike many Harley models of yesteryear, there is no rattling and squeaks from anywhere, which I find to be a great thing. The wires are well-insulated and of the highest quality. There are minimally exposed wirings as well. Aside from that, the paint and chrome quality deserve a special mention too.
#3. Has tremendous mod potential
Being a Harley-Davidson and an air-cooled one, this bike can be endlessly customized. When it comes to appearance, the Wrinkle black Sportster primary engine cover, diamond black handgrips, Harley-Davidson embossed timing cover, Daymaker projector LED headlamps, mini-ape handlebar, and more are the common ones that can be purchased and added to your bike.
There are a lot of equipment upgrades, like the combination digital speedometer with analog tachometer, Screamin’ Eagle Street Cannon exhaust, and Street Tune Pro can be added as well. Aside from that, some of the mods like the RSDs vintage handlebar, smoked lenses, forward controls, custom seat, custom paint job, and more are very common among the users as well. Essentially, the Harley-Davidson Iron 883 (2022) is a blank canvas that the owners can always paint according to their likes and preferences.
#4. Looks gorgeous as well
The Harley-Davidson Iron 883 (2022) has an unmatched road presence and it can be attributed to its typical American cruiser design language. Coming without any design changes from the outgoing 2021 Iron 883 model, the Harley-Davidson Iron 883 (2022) retains the classic round halogen headlight, blacked-out handlebar and mirrors, and the rather wide 100-section tire.
Meanwhile, the side profile of the bike also stands out from some of the rivals of the segment, even after many years of being in production with an identical design. The blacked-out engine components, 7-spoke wheels, exhaust system, side panels, and sweeping tank design will help the bike retain the ethos of Harley-Davidson. Moreover, the rear looks quite ravishing too.
#5. Vibrations can need some getting used to
The 2022 Harley-Davidson Iron 883 is one of the most vibrating motorcycles currently in the market When the motor is idling, you can see the exhaust, handlebar, footpegs, and mirrors vibrating continuously. Although the motor is rubber-mounted, the vibration surely bog down the riding experience.
While you are riding around the city streets, the Harley-Davidson Iron 883 (2022) emits vibrations throughout the handlebar and footpegs. Moreover, the seat tends to vibrate quite a bit. However, it is easy to get used to.