Thanks. I'm in Sarf Essex Guv!

Shaw HD aren't that far from me (60ish miles) and the 883R I linked to earlier is one of their stock too! Not quite in a position to buy yet, thankfully, as the more i look the more I find out, lol!

Funny thing is I wanted a return to old style bikes, carb'ed, air cooled etc, as that suits my mechanical skills, but the more i look, the more i like and find myself drawn to the later models, such as the fuel injected 883s.

 

Lakeside as a dealership too so no need to stray too far

 

Also Black Bear in Newmarket, probably the longest established one in easy reach. Bear (oops - pun!) in mind that now is a good time to buy, rather than when the sun comes out at Easter! Secondhand prices will go up and dealers will be less inclined to discount, so do some background research on what is available, if you can manage to buy soon.

 

I'll keep an eye on Lakeside and keep meaning to stop down there if only to have a sit one one!

I started watching Harleys just before Xmas and have been amazed at how well they seem to be selling! It seems the more extras they have on, the quicker the sell? Certainly seem to have a less seasonal market than Jap sportsbikes!

 

sell well and pretty much well hold their prices too.
Very few brands can say the same and getting 2nd hand with someone else paying for the extras is the way to go I think.
Although we have bought 2 new ones in the past 6 months lol

 

Now that's just being greedy! Haven't got room for any more at present. Too busy.....

 

well it is easier to explain buying bits for your own bike if she has one of her own.
Just playing the long game

 

Having watched a few videos of Sportsers with short shots etc on I am wondering if they will be too loud for me and my neighbours and of course The Police. I've had Jap bikes and even european supermotos with race cans on many times and never been stopped for it, but after following a 883 with short shots on it the other day I suspect this may change, lol!

Sadly with my Son being made redundant at work and my wife looking like she may be facing the same, the intended purchase of a Sportster has been postponed for now. Just hope that's turn out to be a short and temporary postponement!

 

As it sounds you have well researched and set the focus what you prefer straight by now, so the rest is watching for the right time and opportunity. Crossing fingers that it will be soon, but the good part even there is - these bikes are around, they're a good value, so it's just the right one to find you at the right time.

Wrt mufflers - while I may face a good hiding by the 'Loud pipes save lives' gang for this, the easiest and cheapest way for a start is to leave the stockers on - and no police will bother you.

 

A couple buddies of mine have Irons and one needs to fill up every 140km (2008 model year) and the other every 175km (2014).