1958 Harley-Davidson XLCH Sportster

• ENGINE: Air-cooled, 55-cubic-inch (883cc) overhead-valve Ironhead V-twin
• ENGINE NO.: 58XLCH2470
• HP: Approx. 55 @ 6,300 rpm
• IGNITION: Magneto
• FUEL SYSTEM: Single Linkert carburetor
• FUEL CAPACITY: 1.9 gallons
• TRANSMISSION: 4-speed, constant-mesh, right-hand shift
• PRIMARY/FINAL DRIVE: Chain
• WET WEIGHT: Approx. 480 lb.
• TOP SPEED: Approx. 115 mph
• FRAME: Tubular steel (based on the earlier Model K frames)
• SUSPENSION: Telescopic front forks, dual rear automotive-type shock absorbers
• BRAKES: Front and rear drums

Harley-David­son, Inc. needs no introduction as an iconic American motor­cycle manu­facturer headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. In 1901, William S. Harley, Arthur David­son, and brother Walter David­son began work on their first motor­cycle engine. Their first attempt may have been a failure, but they founded Harley-David­son in 1903 and became one of the largest motor­cycle manu­facturers by 1920. They produced motor­cycles for the United States used in both World War I and II and were one of only two major motor­cycle manu­facturers to survive the Great Depression. In fact, they’ve survived numerous changes to ownership and restructuring, intense global competition, charges of restrictive practices, claims of stock price manipulation, and a constantly evolving view of the com­pany and bikers. Still, they are widely known for their loyal following and now manufacture in Penn­syl­vania, Wisconsin, Brazil, and Thailand. Their classic cruiser style, including high handlebars, low seats, and chrome parts, is easily recognizable. They’re also noted for their customizability, giving rise to the chopper style of motor­cycle, and for the distinct sound of HD’s powerful engines.

The 1958 Harley-David­son Sportster is iconic for splitting into two distinct models: the road-going XLH and the competition-focused, stripped-down XLCH. “CH” stood for “Competition Hot” and was built for performance. It featured a magneto ignition, larger ports and valves, high-domed pistons, and no battery. Similar to British motor­cycles of the time, the orig­inal Sportster line featured the gear-shift lever on the right side and the rear brake on the left. It was powered by Harley’s early 55-cubic-inch (883cc) overhead-valve Ironhead V-twin engine. It also utilized an early, distinct form of the famous “peanut” fuel tank that became a hallmark of Sportster styling. In 1958, Harley-David­son integrated the camshaft gears directly with the camshafts (eliminating the need for a Woodruff key) and enlarged the drive and second gears for added durability.

Orig­inal, period-correct 1957 XL Sportsters command a premium due to their historical significance, and vehicles available for sale are quite rare. This 1958 Harley-David­son Sportster XLCH has undergone a recent complete restoration and is currently in excellent running condition.