I don't understand Curts comment about the big rigs, I rode my 2007 1200C to northern W.Va, (370 miles one way) about a month ago and being around big rigs was a total non issue.

 

I just don't like the wind coming off the top of them when you pass. Also when passing them it kind've makes me fell like i'm being sucked in under them. I guess I just need more highway time.

 

I ride 20K miles a year and just did an 1100 mile ride last weekend...while not a 1200, my 883 likes 75-80 MPH just fine. I wish my Sporty had a 6th gear, though!

Pros: Pacific Coast Highway to San Francisco through Big Sur -- very curvy, and a huge hoot on the Sporty. Easy to thread through traffic stuck on the GG Bridge, which seems to have narrower lanes than normal.

Cons: High gusty winds tend to wear me out; I usually up laying on the tank. More weight would help; I notice when I ride 2-up the bike is much more stable as I only weigh 160 lbs. I have tried using a windshield but got headaches from all the buffeting, so it stays in the garage.

Even though I have modified the suspension, uneven expansion joints on an unfamiliar route require more attention if you're not careful. Again, more weight in the form of a bigger bike would help; I usually end up putting my heels on the rear mini floorboards and lifting myself up a bit when I see them coming.

 

Thanks Curt, Trace, I run progressive 13.5" 440s standards and Progressive fork springs with the full length 3" spacer and 7w fork oil. Bumps are non events whether going straight or turning. Incidently those lowering blocks reduce the leverage of the rear wheel to move the shock thereby stiffening the suspension.

 

I ride a bone stock '08 1200C.

Rides just fine on the highway. No issues doing a roll-on to get past a semi.

Ride quality is pretty good.

I am thinking about redoing the suspension, but more for performance. The highway comfort is fine.

 

I ride a 2007 XL 1220c, bought it new. No issues at all. My Sportster suits my demands ! 15,500 miles on the clock. The wife got on her Iron & I mounted the 1200 today. We cruzed at 70 & 75 on the interstate. We both enjoy our Sportsters. We ran over 100 miles today. I had a new rear tire installed on mine...This was the OEM replacement ! That's right OEM (15,500) I replaced the front tire at 13 or 14 thousand I think. I'm going to the DRAGON Oct 12 for a few days. I'm riding it 400 miles to get there, not hauling it !
Did I mention I dont use a windshied ?

 

no issue on the highway I cruise at 70-75 all day long and there is plenty of power left over to pass......


if you got the bucks get the dyna....

 

I upgraded my '06 XL1200L with Progressive suspension front and rear, when with A full Stage 1 using V&H intake and twin slash Exhaust. I normally cruise at 75-85 and feel safe. I rode withe few buddies out in the middle of nowhere last week and we were makeing passes at over 100mph and I still have pleanty left. In fact I was impressed with how strong she pulled at the top end. My buddies were on BMW's and a Busa. I have two other bikes but felt like taking the Sporty out that day. They were all impressed at how I was ae to stay with them through all the high speed runs. I wasn't on the back the whole time either. I really like this bike but want one more gear. Just hate to give up the agility, I do lots of canyon riding to The Rock Store. Anyone move up from a Sporty and can recommend an alternative that would handle close to the Sporty?

 

My '07 XL1200C is the only bike I've ever ridden, so I can't compare it to others. I cruise at 70mph and can immediately hit 75-80 if needed to pass. My 110 mile round trip to work can be a bit rough, and the condition of PA highways doesn't help! I plan to improve the suspension over winter. I'd also like to replace the stock seat.

I originally wanted a Dyna, knowing I'd be on the interstate a lot, but couldn't find it. I do love my Sporty though.

 

Get the Dyna or softail. They are both a bigger and heavier bikes. I had a 1200 Sportster and on the freeway felt like I was getting blown all the over road when 18 wheelers were near me. Crusing at 70 MPH was not for me on the Sportster. I have a 2010 Fatboy LO and its a night and day difference in those 2 bikes.. Good luck.