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by Pete Schultz

We are all guilty of looking down our noses at Sportsters. The narrow frame and front end, along with the integrated motor and transmission separate it from being amongst the elite Hogs. Sometimes called "starter" or "entry level" bikes, the Sportster has received both disrespect and acclaim. Some riders revere Sportsters as the best handling and quickest factory Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Other riders regulate the Sportster lineup to duty as "chick bikes". Let's take a look at the Sportster in general and decide if they are worthy of the most hardened biker, or if in fact they are just "chick bikes".

Up until a few years ago, the Sportster motor was a solid mounted. Vibration was transferred from the motor through the frame, up into the handlebars through the rider's hands and into their jawline. These vibrations accentuated themselves at highway speeds making long trips on Sportsters downright miserable. Most Sportster riders were not enthused about touring on their bikes. But now that Sportsters are rubber mounted, bring on the highway!  The motor is isolated from the frame keeping the vibes from ruining the ride - same as the counter balanced and rubber mounted big twins.

Sportsters started out with a 900cc motor, and they still are available as an 883, but can also be had in a 1200 (74 cubic inches). For decades the 74 cubic inch overhead valve motor was considered a "big bore". So why would anyone view the 1200 Sportster as an underpowered chick bike? These bikes are quick from the factory, but with a little head work and a set of cams, they are downright powerful machines. Combined with the lighter weight frame and front end, the Sportster has a decided advantage performance wise. Less weight also means easier braking, and better overall maneuvering. There are numerous reasons for riders wanting a lighter motorcycle, some as simple as stature, others are out of need - such as age or disability. The Sportster provides an American made motorcycle for riders who can't handle the big twins; it also introduces riders looking for a quick and maneuverable motorcycle to Harley-Davidson motorcycles.

I know of many dedicated Harley-Davidson riders who have always ridden Sportsters, either because they were far more affordable than the big twins, or because the Sportster was just what they were looking for: a nimble and quick bike that could get the job done. They never took offense to the "piglet" comments. They knew that they were riding American iron and had nothing to be embarrassed about.

Harley-Davidson has continued to modify and improve the Sportster through the years. The bike is no longer an around town or short trip motorcycle that is ridden by devoted legions of "chicks". The Sportster is a refined, smooth running, quick handling Harley-Davidson motorcycle that is snubbed and overlooked by many because of historical stereotypes.

I have always wondered when the Motor Company would evolve the Sportster into a lightweight touring bike. If they would equip the 1200 Sportster with floorboards, hard saddle bags, five gallon fuel tank and a fairing, they would have a definite winner. Bring on the Sportstour!

What do you think? Is the world ready for the Sportstour? Or are Sportsters just "chick" bikes? Shout off in the Forums!

 

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Jim Butler (Wed, 02 Nov 2011 20:33:57 -0700): Touring, hopping or just cruising - my sporty does it all and does it well.

Sabina Appolonia Weber (Thu, 03 Nov 2011 10:30:03 -0700): My ex, who has been riding for 35 or more years, always said that my 1200 would out run his Dyna any day! :-)

Andy Rowe (Thu, 03 Nov 2011 10:56:42 -0700): My first HD was a sporty back in the mid-70s. It was a terrible bike, typical of the time period. But at least it was a Harley! Today's Sportsters are good bikes whether you're a chic or a dude. I think there are better choices for the experienced rider, but riding a sporty is better than any jap bike.

Benoît Le Claire (Thu, 03 Nov 2011 11:08:52 -0700): I think i'm a girl ...I've got 2 sportsters ....

Julius Colón (Thu, 03 Nov 2011 13:07:26 -0700): Sportsters are no chick bikes! My 78 is all tricked out and handles great on long hauls or just around town. Plus it looks real cool in a easyrider way....

Amy Watts (Thu, 03 Nov 2011 13:10:08 -0700): The Sportsters are a peppy little bike, but the key word is "little". I'm 5'10" and can't ride a Sportster at all it's too small. My FXDF is perfect for me, forward controls, beefy motor, wider tires, handles like a dream. However, I rode my friends 1200 xl to see how it did, and I gotta tell ya, that thing has some pick up! The poor Sportster gets a bad rap and always has, however, it's a Harley and isn't that all that really matters? Well, if you're a Harley fanatic...like I am. Keep the shiny side up!

Robert Mann (Thu, 03 Nov 2011 15:06:57 -0700): whoever let you ride their sporty must be a GREAT person

Amy Watts (Thu, 03 Nov 2011 16:06:16 -0700): Robert Mann You so are! Just remember the person who lets you ride their Fat Bob is an AWESOME person!

Robert Mann (Thu, 03 Nov 2011 16:08:53 -0700): i will

Jay Martinez (Thu, 03 Nov 2011 13:12:48 -0700): I'm 6 ft. 285 lbs and tough as nails and I ride a 2008 sportster 1200 and I love it and I wud love for somebody to tell me it's a chick bike in my face. Lol anyways I love my sportY! I'll keep it forever!

Justin Spencer (Wed, 16 Nov 2011 12:27:40 -0800): Preach it brother!!

Eric Plantener (Mon, 26 Mar 2012 20:44:02 -0700): I'm 5'10, 275lbs. Tougher than the floor boards of an outhouse, and I love my 2006 1200R Roadster. I've gotten compliments from people who ride Road Kings as well as soft tails. It's black, it's a Harley, and it's loud!

Jeff Dennis (Thu, 03 Nov 2011 13:16:53 -0700): big twin....bagger....wide glide...sportster....All Motorcycles....All Harleys...End of Story! No such thing as a girls bike! Just like there's no such thing as just a guys bike....ive seen girls ride biggers bike then most any bikers....I think people get what they like and can afford....As long as your in the wind why does it matter what size your bike is........Ride what you like and be happy....

Scott Paulus (Fri, 06 Jan 2012 20:50:23 -0800): That's good Dude. Well said

Mike Dunn (Thu, 03 Nov 2011 13:21:49 -0700): my 06 1200 c is fine for me, I have a lot of people say that doesn't look like a sporty cuz it has the big tank and 21'' front wheel and it's dressed out, sporty's are cool!

Joseph M. Litwin (Thu, 03 Nov 2011 13:22:24 -0700): I Love my 883!

Don Wilson (Thu, 03 Nov 2011 15:12:44 -0700): i am 5 11 250 lbs i have a 97 1200 sportster yellow i have put all the bells and whilsels on it ride ever where short or long trips the only thing it needs is a big gas tank it will have that as soon as i find one i want 4 plus gal

Trevor Smith (Thu, 10 Nov 2011 13:46:41 -0800): Don Wilson, Check Seeger cycles. They have a 4 gallon for your ride. http://www.seegercycle.com/sportstergastankwithdash2stretched.aspx

Tom Richardson (Thu, 03 Nov 2011 13:23:19 -0700): I am man enough to own one ;o).

Kent Morris (Thu, 03 Nov 2011 13:25:57 -0700): I have owned a Sporter, Road King and an Electra Glide. The Sporter is a great bike but serves well as a starter. If you ride long distance, you will want to upgrade to a touring class bike like a Road King, Street Glide or Electra Glide!

Christina Johnson (Thu, 03 Nov 2011 13:30:37 -0700): I've got a 2005 1200xl sporty and she is a little badass! LOL I love my bike and I'm a small framed person so at 5'4" and not quite 120 lbs, this was ideal.

Ruth Mahon (Thu, 03 Nov 2011 14:25:43 -0700): When did you get your OWN bike? You ride a lot I take it? Sturgis yet?

Clayton Jones (Thu, 03 Nov 2011 13:35:29 -0700): I Love my '99 Sportster w/ Big Bore. This is my first H.D. for the $$ it's the BEST! and can keep up with any Big Twin out there. Chic Bike? Chick magnet, It Gets Me LAID all the time... haha

Shaun Miller (Thu, 03 Nov 2011 13:44:34 -0700): I have a sporty 883 hugger, the down fall to it is I am 6foot tall and it feels small when there are 2 passengers, my bike is a good entry bike. but not misstaken as just a womans bike. the sportys are nice and can be easily modified. my budddy has a 1200 that's been built up and it out ran a built camaro with nos and his bike had no first or second gear at the time they raced. they are great bikes for anyone riding.

Duane Riggs (Thu, 03 Nov 2011 13:55:34 -0700): Duane Riggs I ride a 1200 every where and I love it, it has allot of power and I'm not afraid of taking on a long trip remember we all eat the same bugs lol.

Tony Jannace (Thu, 03 Nov 2011 14:21:24 -0700): The sportster was stereotyped not by the older generation but the newer generations. I grew up with sportsters and road one for many years it was affordable and everyone had one. As a matter of fact if you had a bagger or a touring bike you were not in with the in crowd. I myself now ride a deluxe for two reasons one, is a comfortable riding bike and a lot more power. Two I am a lot older now. If you asked most old guys that ride Harley-Davidson's, and I mean the old guys the majority started off with a sportster. With a little modification and open pipes everybody knew you were coming. I don't know about you but with the new technology in the looks, fat tire, wartime style, and café style I am itching to buy one.

Russell Irby (Thu, 03 Nov 2011 14:23:34 -0700): I love my Iron 883. Soon probably do the convert kit to 1200, but I would not trade it. If I wanted to just sit and let a vehicle do the work, I would buy a convertable. My sportser is one bad little bike and always gets compliments from the crowd on bike nights.

Melissa Feltman Newton (Thu, 03 Nov 2011 14:58:46 -0700): They are great bikes-we had a 1200 sportster, but traded for a Softail Deuce (HD) but as far as power with take-off, you can't beat a sportster. Would like to see a pic of your bike, do you have one? I have a Yamaha V-Star 650, pretty blue-won a trophy @ bikefest

Melissa Feltman Newton (Fri, 04 Nov 2011 10:48:27 -0700): Love your bike

Tony Jannace (Thu, 03 Nov 2011 14:42:08 -0700): "Then Came Bronson." This was an on-the-road style drama NBC television broadcast between 1969-1970. Actor Michael Parks starred as Jim Bronson, an obituary writer from San Francisco who watched a friend jump off a bridge and commit suicide. After that experience, Bronson decided to drop out of society, quit his job and hit the road on his red Sportster. In the series, Bronson actually buys back the bike that he once owned, from his friend’s widow and then travels south, toward Big Sur, looking for the meaning of life. Along the way he has his share of excitement and adventures. Look it up on You Tube I am sure it is there a video or two out there. It inspired me to buy a sportster. I used to watch it fatefully once a week when it was on. Like I said the younger guys stereotyped the sportster. By the way remember the barrel of death, to sportster's the cage every circus, every fair had one. It consisted of two crackerjack riders and balls of steel.

John Gileta (Thu, 03 Nov 2011 14:55:46 -0700): I ride a bagger and love it.Some days, however I would just like to go out and scream around on a smaller, more nimble bike.If I didn't spend a kings ransom on a 2010 e-glide limited I really would like to get a 1200 and have some good clean fun.

Ryan Ralf (Thu, 03 Nov 2011 15:28:11 -0700): We're all guilty of looking down our nose at Sportsters? Speak for yourself, Pete.

Tony Miller-Mueller (Thu, 03 Nov 2011 15:48:11 -0700): I like a V twin 88 a very smooth ride. The sporties are too, fast as hell and very "torqueie". At 6'3" they are kind of small for me, but fun around town.

Jeff Whitham (Thu, 03 Nov 2011 16:14:35 -0700): I ride a Dyna Lowrider.. Got the wife a 1200 Sporty and she loves it.. I have to say.. that thing is QUICK compared to mine. NOT a chicks bike at all.. those things are a hoot.

Randy E Mabbitt (Tue, 08 Nov 2011 14:24:31 -0800): I own an 81 wide glide shovelhead and a 94 XLH883H that I have installed a big bore kit on, and done alot of other things to like chrome , and now I am going to add a springer front end to it. I get alot of compliments on my sporty, and have even been told that its a girls bike and I just say o well, you ride what you like and I'll ride what I like. my 81 shovel has an 86ci stroker kit with the andrews 440 cams , bigger main drive sproket and smaller final drive sproket, all the chrome that can be put it , just like my sporty. I have taken both my 81 and my 94 to car shows and won 1st place. my sporty will run along side my 81 with no problem at all with keeping up. its like jeff said it just depends on what you like to ride , I ride HARLEY DAVIDSON and its AMERICAN made , anything else is just another bike.

Randy E Mabbitt (Thu, 05 Jan 2012 15:52:20 -0800): no sportsters are not chick bikes

Trevor Smith (Thu, 10 Nov 2011 13:41:17 -0800): I'm currently running an '06 XL1200C with the NRHS 88" kit, Crane cams, Buell top end (ported, polished, and shaved 5/1000) with a Thunderjet carb kit and Porker Performance Exhaust. I'm pushing into the triple digits on both HP and Tq. Suspension is Progressive up front and 12" StreetGlide air in the rear. Bars are 12" Dyna apes set up on 9" risers with a 7-1/2" pullback and a 34-1/2" spread. Seat is a C&C solo with the 5" lumbar. I put the tall quick detach screen on it and Champion Liberty hard bags color matched to the bike. Fully kitted out, the bike weighs in at 628 lbs with the fuel topped off. I'm 6'1" and 270 lbs and have made many extended road trips with no complaints other than I wish Baker would come out with a 6 speed for it. The crew I ride with hate the fact that a big old fart like me will smoke everything they've got except the 113" scoots.

Don Auge (Sat, 12 Nov 2011 19:19:38 -0800): I just bought a Sportster this year. A 1200 Custom. What can I tell you, most fun I've ever had on a bike? Girls bike? Call it that if you want but you better get on one first and then wipe the smile off you face.

Scott Sadin (Sat, 19 Nov 2011 19:40:02 -0800): anyone who says a sporty is a chick bike just doesn't get it....i have owned Slush tails, geezer glides, and a piglet....i loved that bike....all had its own personality and all were fantastic....

Clarence Ritchie (Sat, 26 Nov 2011 05:46:34 -0800): I say ride what you want. I myself wasn't comfortable sitting on the sportster. It just felt to small to me. I wanted something different so I got the v-rod. I have to say the sporty is by no means a chicks bike. I think it is more suited for a smaller framed person. I like to call it the affordable Harley. Its cheap enough that anyone can afford one. I can't say much the sporty is a good bike for such a long production run.

Daniel Taylor (Mon, 28 Nov 2011 08:39:22 -0800): I love my iron 883 fun bike good power for an entry bike I'm 6'2 and 235lbs and it still hauls ass and gets plenty of attention from people. last time I checked I was guy so just a girls bike I don't think so :)

Gunn Shotts (Tue, 29 Nov 2011 06:06:53 -0800): Harley itself has put that girls bike bullshit out there, not sure why and don't care. I have 6 bikes including a RK police and a 2000 1200c. I have yet to find ANY "big" bike (when did 1200cc's become small) that can keep up with my sporty from take off to top end. Also, at least where I live (SW Florida) any time I see a woman on her own bike it is near always a heritage classic or some other softail. 1 in 50 might be on a sporty, otherwise its the dudes bangin with the sportsters cuz they are FUN...lol.

Jim Burton (Mon, 05 Dec 2011 05:22:29 -0800): I Own a 05 883xl... I'm 6'2 and 275.... Its stock other than the V&H straight shot HS the Screaming Eagle breather and carb mods and some gears. It flat takes me where ever I want to go whether down the street or across the country.......... at my own pace or in a hurry..... Its a dam fine bike.

Larry Clark (Tue, 06 Dec 2011 18:06:29 -0800): My sporty is Murdred out and stripped down cafe style. She's a mean bitch. I can ride distance with the big cruisers and the fly with the sport bikes. I want as little bike between me and the highway as I can get. If I can strap myself to the engine I would. Keep the big comfy couches. I want to ride a motorcycle. Bikes shouldn't have cup holders, windshields and heaters-Get a minivan. That's my 2 cents anyways.

Annette Schendel (Tue, 06 Dec 2011 18:10:08 -0800): started riding on a Sportster, moved to a Dyna, I think there are some really hot Sporty set ups and mine was fast and handled like a gem! No way is it just for girls- I think this has just come about since more ladies are riding and it's size helps many smaller women feel more comfortable, I loved that bike,...I'm a girl but I see lots of guys riding them too!

Jeremy Neville (Tue, 06 Dec 2011 18:13:18 -0800): I have a 09 1200 nightster an love it I ride highway , bar hop , an do what ever on it to me there the best bikes made.

Dean Ribich (Tue, 06 Dec 2011 18:17:41 -0800): my 2010 silver denim/blacked out iron 883 with 1200 kit, black v&h 2-2 radius pipes, rsd black ops air cleaner and several other mods gets me a lot of compliments from every generation of rider. Originlly all I intended to get out of this buy was a is a bar hopper. However I have found these newer sportys allow riders to use this bike for much more. Trust me this bad boy rips and growls with the best of em. While I plan to step up toa bigger bike down the line, I will never be ashamed to have rode this awesome machine!

Colleen Boland (Tue, 06 Dec 2011 18:35:24 -0800): well they have always been known as Skirtsters. But each to there own. I wouldn't ride one. They are still Harleys though.

Teri Clark (Wed, 07 Dec 2011 03:36:01 -0800): I go everywhere on my Sporty, yes I'm a female and raced motorcross until I was 35 yrs old and have owned many a motorcross bike, dual purpose bike, etc. I am small framed, every Harley I sat on was way too big, heavy, tall, and wide, so the Sporty is perfect, now a Sportstour bike, would be ideal, 5 gal gas tank, hard saddlebags, Sundowner seat, better suspension and wider tires!!

Colleen Boland (Wed, 07 Dec 2011 03:41:47 -0800): you dont NEED a sporty cause you are small. I am 5foot 1inch tall. I ride a Softail deluxe and have a reach seat fitted. This brings me forward and lower to the ground and I have both feet flat on the ground. Which makes it very easy to ride safely.

Frank Okusako (Tue, 06 Dec 2011 18:55:27 -0800): I've had six Harleys and four of them were Sportsters. I like the transmissions on the big Harleys better than on the Spoprtsters, but the Sportsters have many advantages over the bigger twins. The Sportster doesn't weigh as much, you can get more of your feet on the ground, and gas mileage is far better. As far as looks go, I can only think of two Sportsters that look as nice as their bigger brothers. One is the 1980 AMF 1000 cc in black, and the other is the 2012 48. If I ever ditch my DynaBob, it'll be for the 48.

Mike Carpenter (Tue, 06 Dec 2011 19:21:54 -0800): they maybe but they are also little rockets with wheels.

Stevan Trejo (Tue, 06 Dec 2011 19:22:31 -0800): My first Harley was a 1988 sporty. Now I have a 2009 Street Glide and I still have my 88 sporty. I also have a 95 sporty chopper that hasn't lost a race to anything. If I was forced to get rid of all my bikes and keep only one, it would be my 95 sporty that would stay. Sportsters Rule!

Billy Goffi (Tue, 06 Dec 2011 20:49:14 -0800): Hmm. lessee. '76 honda 450. '80 Honda400 Hondamatic. A 250 Enduro briefly. The Radian. And now '79 KZ200 and the '11 Ninja. Looking at a....oh..Ill tell you tomorrow/:)

Eric A. Wardrum (Tue, 06 Dec 2011 19:35:11 -0800): I own a 1973 1000cc iron head, a 1971 FX, and a 1998 1200 XL....I ride the 1200 more than anything. Small? I am six foot and 250 lbs. Not a small bike at all. Ride it on long trips all the time. 3000 miles round trip to Sturgis....700 mile days. NO PROBLEM! My exoperience is that people who are want to be bikers call Sportsters girls bikes because they have no clue what they are. It is the longest running model from Harley and more sold than any other bike. cubic inch for cubic inch the Sportster will out run a big twin. I know. I own both!

Tom McGuire (Wed, 07 Dec 2011 11:38:01 -0800): This strikes a nerve! (I own and ride a 78 Ironhead) the Ironhead is emblematic of everything that is raw and nasty about Harley! Here are just 2 reasons (facts) I love about the Ironead sportster 1) The four cam XLs have inherently better valve train geometry than any big twin engine Harley makes or has made. 2) It takes roughly a 15.5:1 compression ratio with an aluminum head Evolution engine to match a 14:1 compression ratio with an Ironhead

Jeff Maddox (Tue, 06 Dec 2011 20:03:38 -0800): SPORTSTERS RULE!

Ken Houston (Tue, 06 Dec 2011 20:58:27 -0800): I fell in love with bikes at the age of 8 and Harleys shortly after. At 19 I bought a new '79 Sporty. Anyone who ever called it a chick bike never rode an ironhead. Top heavy, tall, want to run in a straight line, clutch designed by Mack Truck and it takes all 200lbs of me to kick it off. I have an '80 model too. The Wideglide and the Ultra may move on, but the Sportys are permanent fixtures. At this point I don't even care what kind of bike a man (or woman) rides. The person counts for a lot more and I sure do meet a lot of 'jerks' on Harleys nowadays.

Ron Flood (Tue, 06 Dec 2011 21:04:55 -0800): Sportsters, in their stock form, are usually too tall for most "chicks". Softails make better bikes for women. Sportsters do have nice shifting trannys and can be made a lot faster than most big twins for less money. They are cheaper to maintain and Ironhead sportys make great choppers and bobbers too. They don't get the street-cred of a big twin, but they are good bikes.

Pete Barnes (Tue, 06 Dec 2011 21:50:39 -0800): Road Kings rule, and handle better than a sporster, and yes I used to have a sposter 1200.

Mark Spiteri (Tue, 06 Dec 2011 22:51:46 -0800): Have a 1991 Sportster and use it for touring in town, around the island and even for overland trips to Italy...no problems whatsover! As long as I enjoy it..... other people can say what they like!

Ehren Zappulla (Wed, 07 Dec 2011 02:59:51 -0800): I have a bobbed 2011 XL1200N. Vintage 12" apes, vance and hines side shots with grey heat wraps and no baffles, low profile leather bags from Plunderdog, removed front fender, stage 1 upgrade, and wide white wall dunlops. Let me tell you, I get more positive comments on the scoot than anything else, and NOBODY refers to it as a "chick bike". That includes the guys on big baggers and tourers. The notion that it is a "chick bike" is ridiculous. Well... maybe a chick thing if it was a stock XL1200 in white... I don't do white.

Alan Richey (Wed, 07 Dec 2011 03:01:00 -0800): Like Jay, I'm a big guy, 6'3" 275 lbs. I ride an XR1200x when I'm not on my Ultra. Bike is plenty big enough, powerful, great brakes and suspension. I've ridden on 6 hour rides and loved it the whole time.

Turk Puke-mason (Wed, 07 Dec 2011 03:11:13 -0800): i, ve owned 3 sportsters 3 dynes 4 softails....the coolest bestest harley IMO is the sportster....its a tough american metal and chics make them look tougher..i cut my teeth on a sportster 900.

Jackie Maitzen Osborne (Wed, 07 Dec 2011 06:44:21 -0800): Yeah right a girls bike - don't think so. Do love my 2008 1200 105th Anniversary Edition though! Fits me perfectly! I have driven a Heritage which is nice. Face it all that matters is u ride safe. I see more men on sportsters than women anyway. And the part of hard ride, well u stop and enjoy the scenery more often. I CAN handle any bike I want, my pocket book chose the Sportster. If money were not an object I would like a Road King!

Phill Yates (Wed, 07 Dec 2011 06:54:59 -0800): Thats right .i have four from a 67 to a 2008 an i love ridein all of them

Blaze LDmc (Wed, 07 Dec 2011 07:15:13 -0800): I have an 02 883C that I myself built up to a 74S&S. At the time..I was only able to afford the 883C. I'm a member of a local MC and most members have very expensive baggers and custom bikes...mine beats them all hands down. Like some have posted before...I dare someone to come to me and say "nice chick bike". My only issue is the solid mount motor..but I own and ride one of the fastest Sportys around...so look beyond that. I do love the looks I get from sport bike riders who think they have a faster bike then me and as I pull away...the looks are priceless! lol

William Lynn Gibson (Wed, 07 Dec 2011 07:39:12 -0800): They are definitely not "Just" Chick bikes. They are great all around bikes. They are great Hot Rods and are all the bike anyone really "needs"..... actually the Fat Boy and the Softail Classic are better suited for smaller riders. And they aren't Chick Bikes either. I really don't care what you ride or whether you are male or female....As long as you are riding, that's all that matters.

Rhonda Hudson Schueller (Wed, 07 Dec 2011 10:42:06 -0800): Does a 150 Vespa count??? :)

Jim Bash (Wed, 07 Dec 2011 08:23:26 -0800): ive had a 1200 sportster and my wife had a dyna superglide she didn't want anything to do with a sportster because it was a rough ride she now rides a street glide and almost every single woman ive talked to has a preference to street glides or fat boys over the sportster because of the ride. the only reason I no longer have my sportster is because my wife wanted the street glide she is now riding and gae me her dyna when I traded my sporty in for her new bike. my sportster would out run and out perform an of the other scoots that everyone else I rode with had. so no a sportster is not a chick bike. and ive deffiately never heard a woman say oh that sportster seat is so comfortable.

Jeanne Bash (Wed, 07 Dec 2011 16:17:35 -0800): I told you I didn't want you to trade in your bike!

Jim Bash (Sat, 10 Dec 2011 16:50:07 -0800): Jeanne Bash yes i know you did and i told you i wanted you to have the street glide. and i would do it all over again just to see that look on your face when you climb onto the glide it is worth giving up my sportster to see that.

Mazz Ar (Wed, 07 Dec 2011 08:28:11 -0800): I think its down to personal preference myself, get what you like not what everyone else thinks is right or fits in with others, I own an iron883 and love it saw the bike loved it booked my bike test passed and bought it, any that says its a chick bike up to them but I ain't gota problem with there insecurities lol.

Rick Barbye (Wed, 07 Dec 2011 08:53:00 -0800): At the age of 48 (almost 5 years ago), I bought a 2006 883L to get back into riding. I'm 6'3" 230lbs. and I have to say it was a great bike to practice on. I now ride a 2008 FLHTC and my wife has a Sporty. 2 of my friends swear by their Sportsters! Definitely not just for Chicks.......

Robert Garner (Wed, 07 Dec 2011 09:00:41 -0800): Girl Bike? the first Harley I ever rode was a sporty....and I loved it at 18 I was 6' 2'' 230lbs, and looked like a circus bear on a bicycle, but I loved it. I wish I was small enough to ride a 1200 sporty....I mean really ride it. but at 48 325lbs My 82 shovel and 00 screamin eagle road glide suit me just fine.

Diana Jeanes (Wed, 07 Dec 2011 09:37:20 -0800): I love my 2004 XL883C. I am female, 6 foot with a 37" inseam. I would love to customize my Sportster to sit me back and up 2 more inches. I wish there were more seat options. Everyone suggests that I should just ride a bigger bike. I like my Sportster as it is light weight, easy to handle and fits in my pint size garden shed. If Harley makes hard tour packs, saddlebags, and larger tank and fairings for the Sportster, I believe you'd have customers lined up to order.

Rose Napolitano Davidson (Wed, 07 Dec 2011 09:46:03 -0800): I'm a chick and I ride a black Street Glide. Does that make it a Chick Bike? I doubt it...

Sandra Dawson (Wed, 07 Dec 2011 13:37:20 -0800): It's pretty demeaning to call anything a "chick" bike...it not only demeans the guys that ride them, and the bikes, but more importantly, it's demeaning to women in general..as if what we choose for ourselves is somehow of "less" value or importance than what `real' men would choose.

Rose Napolitano Davidson (Wed, 07 Dec 2011 13:41:21 -0800): exactly Sandra Dawson :-)

Larry Eidell (Wed, 07 Dec 2011 09:58:38 -0800): NO! Who the hell made that saying up? Have you ever had your wheels blown off by a Sportster!

Rob Bennett (Wed, 07 Dec 2011 12:57:54 -0800): Sonny Barger, of the Hells Angels was one of the first men to ride a Sportster around Oakland 1957 and he loved it and others that he owned. I defy anybody to call them a girl bike to his face in his 70s or not. I don't ride a Sporty at this point in time but it doesn't mean I wont again. I just sold my 68 Hard tail and my 04 but I still have my FXRS which is based upon the Sportster setup big engine in smaller frame and thin forks.

David Waag (Wed, 07 Dec 2011 13:15:27 -0800): I own and ride both an 883 and a 1200 Sporty, as well as a Dyna SuperGlide and an FLHT. As far as I'm concerned my Sportsters are every bit as much fun to ride as any bigger bike! Long live Sportsters!

Karen Ryan (Thu, 08 Dec 2011 07:44:09 -0800): ...choosing and riding a motorcycle is a personal preference, there are many individual riders with many different body types and financial differences...thanks to all the bike mfgs for considering this human trait......Sportsters are great and I'm proud to be an owner of a 1980 XLH Roadster and I modified it to fit me just fine!

Shane O'Neill (Thu, 08 Dec 2011 07:56:17 -0800): I have a 2011 48 with forward controls. I am an extremely fit 54 years of age, 6'2" 230. I find the bike comfortable and easy to handle. I could not be happier...do not see myself on anything but a Sportster. I have loved these bikes since I was a kid.

Brandon Henderson (Thu, 08 Dec 2011 08:08:37 -0800): I don't know about "sportstour", but add some bags and a windsheild and you've got yourself a Sportster Glide!

Edward Webster (Thu, 08 Dec 2011 13:21:08 -0800): From England , Ive had 3 proper iron head sportys , for girls? well Ive pulled them and beat many big twins on the road.Bikes are for people who do not make sweeping statements and understand the individual.

Bob Hebert (Thu, 08 Dec 2011 19:11:56 -0800): The answer is in question.

Gates L'Italien (Thu, 08 Dec 2011 21:01:12 -0800): I have both a Sportster and a Road King and both have a place that the other can't replace. For a fun ride and just messing around town Sportster anytime, for a long trip with your chick bring on the King.

Robert Anthony Miller (Thu, 08 Dec 2011 22:54:31 -0800): It looked like it was going that way , if you look at the style of the bike pictured, but the new big tire 48 style makes it a young mans bike.

David Ol'Padnah Thibodeaux Simpson (Fri, 09 Dec 2011 01:39:03 -0800): I have three brothers that ride sportsters. One of em, is a 1200 nightster, and let me tell ya....It hauls ass. It has screamin eagle heads, and I'm not sure which cams he has in it, but he would smoke my 01 deuce with the tc88-B in it. I built a 95" with andrews tw55 cams and did the heads though, and I left him. He changed the cams and reprogrammed his power commander, and he smoked me again. then I went with a jims TC120-R, and I'm back on top again. He has chopped and customized that nightster quite a bit, and gets a lot of compliments on it. Another bro of mine has a 07 1200 custom, and it is super nice. Not just chic bikes at all, but good beginner bikes, with lots of potential. L, L,R, RDS SuperDave

Kenneth Broussard (Fri, 09 Dec 2011 03:55:31 -0800): I say fuck people that think that sporty's are chick bikes. Tell that to confederate motorcycles they use sporty based motors on their bikes and Dave you are right in the quickness department it's all about horse power to weight and ability to get that to the ground, sporty's do that very well. It's called a sportster because it was made to race look at the flat track championships won by the sportster was evil kenivel called a girl when he jumped sportsters only I think not!!! Ok I'm done now!

Mihaly Ablonczy (Fri, 09 Dec 2011 03:58:47 -0800): i would give 1 of my life's for your knowledge, bros. All my respect. I started to change my 04 sportster 883 custom. i got those s.eagle heads:-)))) i need an idea for cheap super charger.. anyway its perfect for me, i dont need bigger one, we should die together. Have fun, lads.

Vinnie Marchitelli (Sun, 11 Dec 2011 07:17:45 -0800): I ride a 2009 1200XL, and I have been touring with it each of the past 3 years...We rode 2000+ miles each year to tennessee and down to Hilton Head..The bike is getting 50 miles/gal with stage 1 upgrades and I don't have to stop for gas any sooner than my RoadKing buddies...The Bike is quick and nimble, and I'd much rather be on my sporty tearing up the Tail of the Dragon, than on a Big Roadking...I may get a bigger bike in the future,, BUT I'll NEVER sell my HotRod Sporty... Hey,, Big Bike Riders,,, See ya at The next Stop sign...What a ride!

Chuck Bill (Mon, 12 Dec 2011 03:29:37 -0800): Only woosey giants fans ride sportsters! Lol

Dan Almeida (Mon, 12 Dec 2011 07:37:19 -0800): I own a Sportster 2001 883 Hugger. It was (very) affordable, and a member of the Harley family. It is fast, reliable, and a good looking machine. I enjoy the hell out of riding it, and don't plan on trading it in. I need a bigger tank, and will be getting the conversion to 1200 soon, as well as Z bars and saddlebags, and custom pain, maybe a new seat. Evel Kneivel did his jumps on a Sporty, and Sonny Barger not only owned them, he highly recommends them to "newbies" and I took the advice of his book "Lets Ride"....I think only ignorant drunks and non riders put them down. Like a pal of mine who was putting them down I front of a girl we knew, "chick bike this and that" and talking about how he was going to get a "Big Dawg" and she asked him if he knew how to ride a motorcycle and he turned red.

David Eby (Tue, 13 Dec 2011 16:46:51 -0800): Every bike has design intent. I don't ride my Electra Glide the same way I ride my Sportster. They serve different purposes. I set up my Sporty suspension for rocket runs, it handles better than any other bike I have ridden and is a blast. Plenty of "chicks" ride baggers. The question is goofy.

Jennifer Robinson (Tue, 13 Dec 2011 18:50:58 -0800): I own a '10 1200 Sportster Low. It's a great bike for me @ 5'5" 120 lbs...yet my husband likes to ride it too. He has owned just about every kind of bike known to man (ok, maybe not quite every kind), including a '10 Sportster 48...but it's not nearly as comfortable as my mine.

Tom Franek (Wed, 14 Dec 2011 06:54:11 -0800): I too am 6 ft., 240 lbs and my '63 XLCH was my first Harley. Never had a problem with power, even with a passenger. Although I am the fourth owner, I know the entire history of the bike as well as the past three owners. There was hardly any "chicks" on bikes when I started riding. I love seeing chicks riding any Harley. I still have my XLCH and will never sell it.

Jacob W. Smith (Fri, 16 Dec 2011 09:02:47 -0800): I think that article was missing a few points... like the sportster have been being made for well over 50 years now. There wasn't many woman riders in the 50's, so it definitely wasn't designed to be a woman's bike. However it was the platform for the race bikes and flat trackers...However it could be a woman's bike.... if a woman is riding it, but my mother-in-law rides a street glide. Her street glide is a woman's bike, because it's hers. That's my take on it, any bike can be a woman's bike, if a woman owns it.

Tricia Rains Smith (Fri, 16 Dec 2011 12:25:09 -0800): very well put mr smith

Ellen Lovell Rains (Sat, 17 Dec 2011 15:39:12 -0800): BRAVO!!

Dav Stewart (Fri, 16 Dec 2011 22:11:21 -0800): Baggers are the motorcycle equivalent of a mini van.They are bloated cows. They carry everything including a weeks worth of clothes and your wife comfortably. I have a BMW convertible that does the same thing as a bagger but better. Sportsters are more like a roadster. They have less luxury items. They definitively are not as comfortable for two riders but a lot more fun. A sportster is what motorcycle riding is all about. You feel the road not some plush leather seat. Less incumbered living with a care free style. Baggers are what people ride when they cant ride a motorcycle. When I get old I may get a bagger. Although I am 52, I still want to wait before I join the geriatric parade on baggers.

SuperDave Pisanich (Sat, 17 Dec 2011 17:49:56 -0800): My 72 xlh is punched out (by Harley) to 1350, otherwise bone stock (yes BONE stock), It's Loud as hell, Faster than it should be, I don't care what the neighbors think (or say) it's an American Icon, HD Sportster,, Small enough for a Woman, Strong enough to Scare a Man! Even the dead Harleys have more value than running project bikes of any make.

Patty Nale Davis (Mon, 19 Dec 2011 14:34:16 -0800): We do any HD line a disservice when we designate a 'chick bike.' Women ride all types of bikes from Sportsters all the way up to Ultras and every model between. I started with a Sporster because the price was right but knew within a couple of years I wanted something more suitable for travel. I now own a Lowrider.

Ellen Lovell Rains (Mon, 19 Dec 2011 15:40:01 -0800): I have owned and rode a Deluxe & 2 Streetglides..& also ride 883 Iron...love them all...each bike has a different feel to it...it just depends upon your personal needs & what you want to expect out of the bike. At the moment I prefer the Street Glide...It's a very comfortable ride & has everything I want on it..it is my personal choice...

Leilani Finley Wildman (Mon, 19 Dec 2011 18:02:18 -0800): I road a Softail for 3 years and traded it for the new 2011 883 Superlow because I am 4 ft. 11 in. and was tired of asking for help when I got into a position that I needed help moving the big bike around. I couldn't even get it out of the garage by myself. With the changes HD made in this bike it is great! No more peanut tank so I can ride farther on a tank, wider front tire, and the frame is different. It is very smooth without the "lurch" my '06 1200 had if not in exactly the right gear. I do miss the Softail for road trips but I think when I get a Corbin seat it will be fine.

Gayle Shoun (Mon, 19 Dec 2011 19:02:26 -0800): Ride on Leilani, any way you can. You rule the road Lady.

D'Arcy Mell (Tue, 20 Dec 2011 16:53:20 -0800): I have(For sale) a year 2000 XLS 1200 Sportster Sport that I put 40,000 Miles on in 5 seasons and I LOVE IT! I've heard ALL of the comments from my buddies who ride "BAGGERS", and have proved to them on more than one occasion that my "PETITE 12" is quicker, better handleiing and brakes better than those big "Winnabago's" I just picked up an FXDX Dyna sport this fall and the only reason I bought it was because I got it for less than half than what it's worth! I also made sure that my wife would let me take her 2003 XLH 883/1200 out for the odd run! Did you notice that both the "Sporties" are pre rubber mount? Sportster The original " Milwaukee vibrator" I will miss her!

Kurt Huck (Fri, 23 Dec 2011 20:22:47 -0800): I liked the 2012 Sportster XL1200C so I bought one. I don't care what people think about me! At least mine is paid off.

Holly LaFrance (Fri, 30 Dec 2011 22:53:49 -0800): My nightster 1200 is a chick bike because I own it... and I ride it everyday all year round. I commute by ferry to Seattle and I find guys of all ages drooling on it about once a week because it's gorgeous. If being a chick bike means that you are wicked fast, handle like a dream, have a 50 year heritage, are all American made, stop on a dime, and look good doing it then I guess it's a chick bike that some men aren't man enough to ride. Eh, it's late December now so the laughers are sitting in their cages while I ride my chick bike to work. Let em laugh.

James F Smith (Fri, 13 Jan 2012 10:32:26 -0800): I love my 1200 and have been told it's a girls bike but told the I don't have to haul alot of ass around like the do. Also I get picked on for wearing leather all the time and tell the they can wear spadex if they want I am ok with the way I ride.

Robert Godfrey (Sat, 24 Mar 2012 19:10:20 -0700): All I say is lets go to drag strip and u can watch my chic bike smoke ur azz! The money I saved on monthly payments I dumped in motor work and custom parts !!

Eric Plantener (Mon, 26 Mar 2012 20:58:37 -0700): Believe me, friend. When I cruise around on my loud black 1200 Roadster, I have never heard a "girl bike" comment or the like. Down the road I may look into a Fatboy Lo, but I'll never get rid of this Sportster. It's old friggin school.

Zagor Tenej (Tue, 03 Apr 2012 08:37:47 -0700): I have sportster low xl 883 l, but I am 191 cm and 95 kg, he looks like hot-dog below me, but HE IS HD, so hushhhhhhhhhhhhhhh.

Oscar Gonzalez (Sat, 21 Apr 2012 19:52:31 -0700): I have a 1998 Sportster 1200 S and I take long drives, some into the mountains or jungle. I live in Peru and have driven to Cusco and other places averaging 1500 or 2000 miles per trip. No problem riding 8 or 10 hour drives. I enjoy it and I´m not planning to get rid of it.