Why do people buy Sportsters? Craigslist is full of them. Guys and gals buy them, then 6 months later they're for sale with 500 miles on them. I don't get it. Sure, they're Harley's......Hell, I had one myself back in the 70's. Not trying to offend anyone, just don't get it. Enough rant.

 

Well, ask yourself why you bought yours?

I'm guessing some are getting them as a starter bike, which I always try to tell others not to do. It's a waste of money. Some may want them in the beginning and find out they need a bigger bike.

That's my guess.

 

Because they can't afford an Electra Glide yet?


LiiT

 

Maybe they want new and it`s what they can afford.
You should post this question in the Sportsters section if you really want some owners answers.

 

Nine days 'till Winter - this thread is early...

Edit - ahhh, never mind, OP is in Minnesota..

 

I can only speak for my neighbor...he's on his second used Sportster. Unlike many of us, he only rides locally...commuting 2 miles each way to work and making local trips to the store, etc. He wanted a Harley but didn't see the need for anything bigger than a Sportster for the riding he does. Too small for me, but they seem to work perfectly for him.

 

Why do people start pointless threads?........

 

Maybe the short term Sportster owner wanted a Street instead.

 

It would seem that a lot of new riders that want a Harley as a starter bike choose a sportster because it is the lightest and most affordable air cooled Harley available. Those sportsters with under 500 miles are probably individuals that decided motorcycles are not for them or those with buyers remorse which is common for bigger/more expensive Harleys as well.

 

Well, I can honestly say I've never seen a Sportster with 500 miles on Craigslist, and I check CL every day. (Still kicking myself for passing up a CB750 "runs" for $300.) I see five low mileage touring models for sale for every Sportie. At least.

The statistics are well known by the MOCO: The average purchaser of a new Sportster keeps his or her bike for 18 months before trading up.

It's 250 pounds+ lighter than a full size touring model, and $15,000 cheaper. If you want a Harley, but you're not sure which one...that's why folks buy them. If you decide riding a motorcycle is not for, the damage to your bank account is a lot less painful.