Just looking for some feedback. I am looking into my first Harley and I am torn between two models the 48 and the Iron. I'm a shorter rider at 5'6 and a small inseam. Just wondering what owners of both bikes think of them. Thanks

 

I love my 48, I love the fat front tire and peanut tank look on it. Your decision also depends on what skill level you have as the 48 is a 1200cc. But once you get used to the iron you could always do the 1250 kit on it. Both the 48 and iron share the same frame so your seating position could easily be fixed by changing the seat. 48 has a 2.1 gallon fuel tank which will trip the light at about 60 miles in city driving which can be a pain while the iron has a 3.3 which will get you until about 100 miles depending on how ya ride it. Test ride both and see what you personally like.

 

The 48 is a much nicer bike....If you are not concerned about price, get the 48.

 

Test ride both for fit, but either should work for you. Iron will have mid-controls, little taller frame/stance and cushier seat. The 48 sports smaller tank, forward controls and lowered. My preference is the 48 for it's bigger motor as well...good luck w/your decision.

 

I had the same issue. I ended up going for the 48. I'm similar in build - 5'6 @ 195 and I was told repeatedly that I'd tire of the 883 and long for more power and have to pay extra to get the forward controls. Why go through the hassle of buying what suits you today versus what you long for tomorrow. Do it right the first time. IMO. I also upgraded my tank to a 4.5 gal and seat since the 2.1 doesn't get you far. The stock seat was garbage also IMO.

 

Like everyone else has said test ride both. You might find that you perfer mid controls to forward or the what seat position suits you best. Might also check out a super low. When I was looking I did like the looks of the Iron and the bigger tank was a plus but a lot of people end up putting in the conversion kit. Swapping out a tank is a whole lot cheaper and easier than converting the motor.

Even though you are a newer rider I wouldn't shy away from the 1200. Yes its a bigger motor but it is by no means a sportbike where a simple twist of the throttle will have your front tire up in the air. Good luck

 

Just get the 48...you will eventually want to upgrade your 883 to a 1200 and then black it out...or just get the 883 and then trade it in after 6 months...same same haha

 

I have a 2013 IRON candy orange with 16 miles has foward controls i would sell for $7900.00 great beginer bike, i am in illinois

 

They're only 8300 new. Your bike is about to become 2 years old

Sorry man, that's just too much money.

 

I went through the same thing back in 12'. I preferred the mid controls, 3g tank & mag wheels so I chose the Iron. Testing them yourself is the best thing you can do. Both are a good choice IMO.

Also if buying new you'd probably spend about the same on both if you had the dealer install a SE 1200 kit on the Iron which I'm pretty sure would keep you under warranty.