I have been reading debates about this for a while. I bought an 883 and at the time cost was a factor. I remember doing research on the web and had my mind set on a 2005 XLH 883. Of course the salesperson showed me the 1200, but I wanted a Vivid Black 883 with the "sportster" decal on the side. I remember the sales person (who was a woman) tell me that "there is not that much difference in power". Like I said cost was an issue and I wanted to keep it under ten grand. I didn't egret my 883 and still own it, although I did also eventually pick up a Super Glide. I have heard the difference between 883-1200 is night and day, and I have also heard people praise the 883 saying it is no slouch. My question is, has anyone ever had the two side by side and rode one, then switched to the other for a comparison? I feel this is the only real way to make an informed decision, I couldn't sell my 883 for example then a few years later ride a 1200 and make an accurate call on this.

 

If you put a 1200 kit on the 883, it'll be faster than a 1200 from the factory.
You can make a real monster out of an 883 without too much trouble.

 

I have a 2012 iron 883 and I think it has plenty of power I have never ridden a 1200 but I would imagine unless you are racing a 1200 you probably wouldn't notice much difference. I've heard the big difference is that the 1200's weigh less and are geared differently. Have not researched this myself

 

Traffic light to traffic light, the 883 typically does a pretty fair job staying with a 1200. But the 883 has a lower gear ratio than the 1200 which is what helps it off the line against the 1200. Get up to higher (highway) speeds, and the acceleration difference when you whack the throttle open is quite noticeable.

 

I had a 07 883 Custom for about 5 months. Bought a 2014 Custom 1200, night and day difference at highway speeds.
The 883 was fine with a stage one using xied's. But once the air cleaner and xied's were removed for trade in.....it felt like a dog in boulevard traffic.

 

Ridden my buddy's 883 to compare with my 1200c and there is a very noticeable difference in gearing and power. I wouldn't call it a day and night though. After riding 1200 for a couple of miles with open throttle, it grew on me.

 

"There ain't no substitute for cubic inches" -'nuff said!

 

Well......

 

10. Suzuki GSX-R600 (2001+)
Engine: 599cc, 16-valve, injected, four
Power: 112bhp
Torque: 51 lb/ft
Weight: 163kg
Top Speed: 160mph

 

Ive had both at the same time and cHarley is spot on. Around town just cruising around, really not that much difference. Even on the interstate, it can easily keep speed loaded or not. Its when you go to pass someone thats doing 58 in a 60...........thats when the grunt of the 1200 is most noticeable to me.

Blue was my 883, if I had kept it at some point I would probably put a 1250 kit in it.