I have a dumb question: I just purchased a 2005 Sportster 1200, I expect vibration but it seems excessive to the point even at a higher speed, 55-60- MPH it continues to get worse.....

Is this the norm, or is there something that needs attention?

Thanks, Michael

 

What were you riding before? Harleys vibrate.
It ain't your mama's Prius.

 

My 2005 Sporty wasn't bad I would check the motor mounts. Welcome aboard!

 

they vibrate sir

 

"Excessive" is extremely subjective. The only way to tell if it's normal is to ride another rubbermount Sportster you know for a fact is in good condition and compare, or have someone who's used to Sportsters ride yours. You won't get anything useful from here, as we can't do a direct comparison.

 

On a rubber isolated bike I would say this is not normal. My 72 has a low pitch vibration, but it's not uncomfortable. At high speed it will vibrate a bit more, but not to where I've ever felt it's a problem.

Of course it shakes like a paint mixer at idle. But that's entirely cool and OK.

 

You n me both. I too, have an '05 1200 and it's like riding a jack-hammer. It did have a smooth spot about 3k rpms, but I wanted it smoother so I put new front isolators in and now it just sits cuz I don't even want to ride it.

As a qualifier, I had a '99 883 last year that was muuuch smoother. I also have an '011 1200 and an 09 FatBob and they are smooth as butter compared to the '05. Ordered a carb rebuild kit and will rebuild the carb, then try to find some soft mounts that aren't 10 year old hockey pucks.

 

Check the front motor mount nut. It can loosen and make all kinds of problems. Then if that is ok replace the mounts front and rear. Should sure things up.

My 04 rides great! Much better than most of my friends Harley's (besides the softail) it's really smooth if you set it up right.

 

Something is not right. I have a 04 883 and my wife has a 05 1200. Both are as smooth as a baby's butt compared to my wide glide(It is still not that bad. I hardy notice it). First thing I would do is make sure the bike is in tune. A bike that is running lean will vibrate pretty bad.

 

I wouldn't mention vibration on my 2005 1200 custom, it feels fine. Is it the same vibration as yours? Maybe. You need to compare "for real", discussing it here won't tell you if it's normal or not.