I have narrowed my choice of bikes down to the iron 883 and 1200 custom. I have test rides on both next week at Wildcat Harley in London Ky. Great service and sales from Bobby there. Anything I should look for on the test rides?

 

Get the one you like the most!

 

That's the plan. Wife wants the one that is not the loudest.

 

pipes can change that.

 

Apple to orange 2 different bikes! Is your wife going to be riding on the back with you? If so the 1200 custom would make more sense to me!

 

No she will not be riding. I like the looks of both. The test rides will be the deciding factor.

 

Iron has 11" shocks, custom 11 3/4", custom slightly better seat and further forward mids so it will likely feel more comfortable stock. Either will be much improved with some 12 1/2" shocks and a quality seat. Iron will turn in the twisties much better, the customs fat tire may make it a tiny more stable going straight, but slow to turn in. 1200 obviously more power and different gearing, lower rpms at speed. Iron looks way cooler! You can put a 1250 kit on the Iron at some point and it will really scoot!

 

Thanks Switchback. Those are things I need to know.

 

Going for the 1200 Custom IMO would put you ahead of the game power wise, comfort, looks, two up riding, value and resale value down the road if you want to trade up later.

 

Looks wise - the Iron looks Sweet! But ohhh man, that extra torque on the 1200; also I prefer forward controls (but you can always get that on the Iron as well). I just saw a pic of the Iron again.... Damn! It looks good.

BTW I have a 1200 XLC

Good luck & Ride safe.