Hey guys. I'm getting ready to purchase a Harley (have been an avid street bike rider for years but have been CBR's 600 to 900rs). I'm looking at two bikes. One is an 883 sportster , 2005, w/ 23k miles... looks pretty clean and rode it today , felt great and has mods. He will let it go for 3,500. The other is a 2004, 1200 sportster, w/ 12k miles and he stands firm at 4k. Which do you guys think is the better deal? I'm so torn and any input is appreciated!

 

A big welcome to you from sunny Southern California. Glad to have you on board.

 

Welcome

 

Howzit and Welcome From Kentucky and a Displaced Cut N Shoot Texan

Haole

 

Welcome to the forums

 

Test ride them both and go from there.

 

Than you for the warm welcomes! Here is the link to the 2004, 1200

http://spacecoast.craigslist.org/mcy/4453684280.html

 

Heres my take on your question. I like the 1200 you get more power for less than it would cost to convert the 883 to a 1200. I love my 1200 although it is a solid mount. The 883 is a little less on insurance do to the displacement size but that is your call. I believe both should also be rubber mounted which helps you compare apples to apples on the bike vibrations. The 1200 also is has just started to get broke in at 12k so you have at least 2 additional years of life with it depending on how often you ride. Hope that helps good luck with your choice.
Welcome to the forum

 

I actually like the look of the small tank on an 883 better. But what really matters is which one felt right to you and your style of riding?

 

You haven't said how big you are. If you are a big guy, definitely the 1200. Regardless of your size, eventually you will want something bigger than the 883, so if it were my choice, I'd go with the 1200. (I had one and loved it.)