I have a 2012 1200. It is very zippy and lots of torque, but uncomfortable on long rides. After 100 miles I'm tired of fighting the wind (no windshield), and the really cool solo seat gives me bleacher but. I ride a switchback and loved it except... It's not zippy. I would truely miss rolling on the throttle coming out of turns and passing on the highway. Any suggestions?

 

I would tell you to go to the Street Glide. Probably because that is what I ride. But on any of the heavier bikes, you are going to have to do some engine mods to realize their real potential. The EPA has these bikes all restricted. Changing the A/C, Exhaust and putting in a beefier cam (basically a Stage II) really wakes these bikes up. And they are way more comfortable on longer rides than your sporty.

 

+1 on that
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Basically had the same issue with my Nightrod. It was fun to ride around town but it beat you up on the highway over an extended period of time. I liked the power and style but it lacked storage & comfort for myself and a passenger. Ended up trading it in on a 15 RGS and I couldn't be more satisfied. I had regrets up untill 20 minutes into the ride back home on the Glide. Night & day difference with the front fairing. It's also nice to not have to wear a back back or try and cram a bunch of stuff into my pockets. Saddle bags, cruise control, radio, GPS, etc....... the trade off vs a few more HP is well worth it IMO

 

new seat along the lines of a Mustang Vintage & detachable windshield like a National Cycle Deflector DX.

 

If you really like the feel and speed of your 1200, get a wind screen and a new seat. That could keep you riding it for years.

 

You're not going to get a Big Twin to feel like a Sporty. No way. The Sporty is a much lighter chassis. Can toss it around like no other Harley.

You can get the power of Big Twins to keep up, but that's only power and straight line.

Anyways...for comfort..on a Sporty chassis...that depends on your size. What height are you?

3 basic things that can make any bike quite comfy....and are cheap and easy to swap out.
*Seat
*Foot controls
*Bars.

You get used to the wind. My prior bike had a removable windshield...didn't use it much (cept for heavy bug season mid spring). Current Shovel came with a full sized windshield..gave that to a bud.

 

I am 5'7 180. So the big bikes are intimidatin. I put drag bars on my bike and forward pegs and love to ride it, any bigger bikes have that forward feel?

 

The Breakout would be my choice. Surely a shield can be had for it if/when needed/wanted??? But I am a bagger guy and love the long haul comfort so I only mention the BO as I love the looks. Road King all day long as it is THE most versatile bike in the HD lineup.

 

Street Glide, I have plenty of passing power and only at Stage 1