1964 Harley-Davidson XLCH Sportster

The 1964 Harley-Davidson XLCH Sportster motorcycle's impressive 883-cc V-twin engine outpowered most competitors of the era.

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After its 1957 introduction, Harley's XL Sportster gained a more sporting version called the XLCH in 1959 -- "CH" supposedly standing for "Competition Hot."

These were stripped-down models oriented toward on- and off-road work with magneto ignition, high exhaust pipes, solo seat, smaller "peanut" tank, and lighter overall weight.

It also featured the now-famous "eyebrow" headlight cover that remains a Sportster trademark. Harley-Davidson also offered the XLH, a dressed-up, touring-influenced version that was outsold by its sportier sibling.

Power rose steadily over the years, earning the fleet Sportster the nickname "King of the Drags" -- an unofficial title it would hold until the late 1960s.

Of course, this was at a time when most of its competitors were British 650-cc twins, which spotted considerable displacement to the 883-cc Sportster. And in drag racing, size matters.

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1964 Harley-Davidson XLCH Sportster Pictures

The 1964 Harley-Davidson XLCH Sportster introduced the Sportster's "eyebrow" headlight covers and shaved weight via a solo seat and small "peanut" gas tank.

**The XLCH introduced the "peanut" tank** **and "eyebrow" headlight cover that would** **become Sportster trademarks.**

**Despite its high-performance aura, the Sportster** **lacked a tachometer, providing only a** **speedometer**.

**Playing on the 150-mph top speed of slightly modified** **XLCH Sportsters, this Harley-Davidson ad claimed** **"Nobody builds a faster stock motorcycle."**

For more great motorcycle articles and pictures, check out:

Classic Motorcycles
How Motorcycles Work
Harley-Davidson Motorcycles