1200 vs 883 power difference
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1200 vs 883 power difference - 5/9/2008 2:21:54 PM
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homefront
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I'm shopping for my first Harley, which I'll be using for dry commuting about 8 months out of the year. The riding will be 99% solo, windshield and saddle bags, with occasional weekend jaunts of undetermined distance with my wife (our combined weight: 360lbs. naked) (won't be riding naked) (usually).
My question here is what exactly does the 883 give up to the 1200 in general use? My riding style could be described as "spirited", but I have no interest in racing anyone, nor am I out to prove anything (anymore). I want a Harley because it reminds me of my Cummins - good, useful torque, down low and mid-range, right where I really want it. I want to buy this bike once, and spend some $ on paint and chrome over time, to make it "mine", and to help functionally. I don't want to trade up later, and I've read more than a few people here stating that the 883 is plenty. So let's hear from those who've had or spent time on both: 883, or 1200?
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RE: 1200 vs 883 power difference - 5/9/2008 2:26:31 PM
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6o66er
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There's a MAJOR difference, especially in two-up riding.
I ride a 1200, my sister an 883. I've had the chance to ride both on MANY occaisions. The difference is night and day. Straight up, the 1200 out-performs it by far. Size wise they're pretty similar, but when it comes to the engine and how it performs in any situation, there's a very noticable difference.
Nothin against 883s, it's just a fact.
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1998 Sportster XL1200 Custom ~ RIDDEN DAILY
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RE: 1200 vs 883 power difference - 5/9/2008 3:21:49 PM
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OldFenderGuy
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The factory horsepower and torque rating for the 2004+ EVO Sportsters are as follows;
1200
70 Horsepower at 6,000 RPM
79 Pounds of Torque at 3,500 RPM
883
53 Horsepower at 6,000 RPM
51 Pounds of Torque at 4,300 RPM
(These figures are for 'peak crank horsepower and torque', and of course the rear wheel figures would be much lower).
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RE: 1200 vs 883 power difference - 5/9/2008 3:28:56 PM
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Bradley Jones
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From: Mill City Mass.
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Big difference but it depends on what your looking for I guess.
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RE: 1200 vs 883 power difference - 5/9/2008 8:09:07 PM
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snake883
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there is a noticeable difference in power and tourque, as already mentioned. As far as the size of the bike goes there really isn't a difference. both are nice bikes. The 883 is refered to as an "entry level" bike alot, but it really boils down to what your lookin for. I personally always liked the sporty in general. If cost is an issue the 883 is a less expensive choice ofcourse. That combined with the fact that your going solo 99% of the time, might point you more toward the 883. My 883c does just fine 2up. If your looking to do some upgrades in the future and you really need some extra "umph" you can always do the conversion which would out-perform a stock 1200. I've owned (2) 883's, and had experience on converted bikes and stock 1200's. all are very nice. whatever you decide on engine size I would go for the custom model, 2004 or newer, if possible. But then again that's somewhat of a personal opinion. I think you'll be satisfied with the 883 by what you say you're looking for, then again you may be MORE than satisfied with a 1200. I wish you luck.
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RE: 1200 vs 883 power difference - 5/9/2008 8:29:13 PM
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homefront
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Hmmm... this is just as hard as I thought it would be.
It sounds as though I should get the 883, and in 4-5 years (when it has 60,000 miles on it) do a rebuild to 1200.
Kingfish - WOW!!
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RE: 1200 vs 883 power difference - 5/9/2008 8:34:12 PM
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Batley
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The 883 is a good bike. We ride two-up and have no problems. As far as power the 1200 would be the way to go and if you plan on keeping it along time I would go with the 1200. If cost is a factor the 883 is a better deal. Whatever you decide I think you'll be happy with either bike from what you stated about your riding style.
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RE: 1200 vs 883 power difference - 5/10/2008 3:48:05 AM
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stafford
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we have an 883, and it is definitely not as quick as a 1200, but it's not a moped either. My brother that weighs in at about 225 ran it up to 100 the other day and it was still pulling when he backed out of it. It'll get over 52-56 miles per gallon every time. S/E breather, rinehart slip ons and a PCiii.. I'm about 260 and I love riding the bike, but it's a little cramped for me since it's a Low. It'll snatch my ass around just fine. If bragging rights are important to you get a 1200, otherwise the 883 will do just about anything the 1200 will do, just a LITTLE slower. Ya gotta think about it . the 1200 is nearly half again as bigga motor. bound to be more powerfu.Of course this is all just my opinion from my experience. Good luck on your choice and enjoy your bike.
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RE: 1200 vs 883 power difference - 5/10/2008 4:06:37 AM
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homefront
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Thansk to all for the replies. Lots of knowledgeable folk here.
Stafford - what's a PCiii ?
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RE: 1200 vs 883 power difference - 5/10/2008 4:58:22 AM
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bigtop1
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Just to add a little note here. I have the 883L, 2006. About 19,000 miles on it now. I am planning on doing the conversion some day but, because the motor runs so good and, because it is so dependable and sturdy, I just cannot find it in me to upset the present set up. Maybe some day but, as it stands right now, I'll just keep it the way it is. You might say, I'm pretty satisfied.
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RE: 1200 vs 883 power difference - 5/10/2008 7:12:04 AM
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faber
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Here's another perspective:
An 883cc engine is still big. Insurance companies will still classify it as a large-displacement bike. Sometimes our perspective gets skewed when we are in Harleyworld all the time. An 883 still has plenty of pull, and you can modify it with all kinds of after-market stuff to increase its power. In fact, you can even convert the engine to a 1200, but the title will still say 883, and your insurance will be charged accordingly.
The 883 will also get much better mpg than a 1200, if that's important.
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RE: 1200 vs 883 power difference - 5/10/2008 4:49:12 PM
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homefront
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Well, I answered my own question, and rode an 883 today. Plenty of squirt - I don't think I'll be needing a 1200. Of course, if a good deal came along....
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RE: 1200 vs 883 power difference - 5/10/2008 5:47:30 PM
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Bradley Jones
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My 1200n does wheelies and my boys 883 don't. theres the difference
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RE: 1200 vs 883 power difference - 5/10/2008 6:20:55 PM
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Lopoetve
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ride 'em both. The 883 is a lightweight to middleweight cruiser, and the 1200 is a medium weight cruiser.
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RE: 1200 vs 883 power difference - 5/10/2008 6:23:51 PM
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OldFenderGuy
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quote:
ORIGINAL: Lopoetve
ride 'em both. The 883 is a lightweight to middleweight cruiser, and the 1200 is a medium weight cruiser.
The weight of a 883C is actually a few pounds heavier than a 1200C (if you are talking about 'lightweight' and 'middleweight' in regards to bike weight).
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"Magna Res Est Vocis Et Silentii Temper Amentum"
(The Great Thing Is To Know When To Speak, And When To Keep Silent)
And By The Way; I'm Not Your "Bro"..
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RE: 1200 vs 883 power difference - 5/10/2008 7:22:33 PM
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homefront
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"My 1200n does wheelies and my boys 883 don't."
That settles it. 883 it is.
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RE: 1200 vs 883 power difference - 5/10/2008 9:15:59 PM
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VtBlackDog
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'07 883 here, and I'm 225 pounds...it works harder going up hills, but for the price, nothing comes close. And my insurance (geico) is dirt cheap.
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RE: 1200 vs 883 power difference - 5/11/2008 9:18:44 AM
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BWLucky13
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You need to ask yourself what kind of riding you will be doing. "Spirited" is a good description of the way I ride a moped--that doesn't say anything. Will you be riding a lot on the superslab? on twisting mountain roads? short rips around town? trips on scenic back roads? How long are your legs? Depending on the way you answer these questions the bike for you ranges from 883 to 1200 to smaller to larger. Based solely on your 2-up weight, I would first consider a 1200 or a larger bike.
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RE: 1200 vs 883 power difference - 5/11/2008 10:20:00 AM
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F1J1
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I owned an '04 1200R, and currently own an '07 883L (long story). The 1200 pulls like a Saturn V rocket engine, the 883 pulls like a Beechcraft Bonanza. I wish I had more HP/Torque.
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RE: 1200 vs 883 power difference - 5/11/2008 3:10:19 PM
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bsambuco
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People in Harley world often become skewed with displacement due to the Big Twins. An 883 is not a small engine. My 883 is the smoothest engine I've owned, perfect for riding around town or highway use. It still beats any cager off the line. Don't forget, NO Harley can keep up with a 600cc sportbike, so don't get too wrapped up in how "big" the engine is. The 883 would be enough for 95% of all riders.
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RE: 1200 vs 883 power difference - 5/11/2008 3:32:09 PM
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bsambuco
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"How long are your legs?"...
The 883 and 1200 versions are identicle in size unless you get a Low model. The 1200 weights slightly less due to the increase in empty cylinder space needed to accomodate the larger pistons.
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RE: 1200 vs 883 power difference - 5/11/2008 3:42:41 PM
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OldFenderGuy
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quote:
ORIGINAL: bsambuco
"How long are your legs?"...
The 883 and 1200 versions are identicle in size unless you get a Low model. The 1200 weights slightly less due to the increase in empty cylinder space needed to accomodate the larger pistons.
The larger cylinder bore and lighter weigh internal components account for the slightly reduced weight of the 1200 (over the 883).
For more information dealing with the differences between the 2004+ "revised Sportster" 883 and 1200 engines, the below is some information released by Harley when they introduced the new 2004 models;
The New Evolution
The XL Evolution V-Twin, that has powered the Sportster since 1986, is completely redesigned for 2004. The engine retains its traditional 45-degree cylinders, and the bore and stroke of the two engine models is unchanged, at 3.0 inches x 3.8 inches for the XL Evolution 883 and 3.5 inches x 3.8 inches for the XL Evolution 1200.
To enhance engine cooling, new cylinders and heads have larger fins while new oil jets are directed at the bottom of both pistons. New pistons have an improved high-speed ring pack designed to help extend upper-end life. Lighter pistons and connecting rods boost the Evolution 1200 redline from 5500 rpm to 6000 rpm. Many engine covers and gaskets have been changed to improve sealing. A new timing system uses the flywheel to determine engine speed timing, reducing engine complexity and enhancing calibration and spark delivery. The traditional XL Evolution timing cover is retained for styling purposes.
The XL Evolution 1200 engine has high-flow cylinder heads with an oil drain-back feature. The XL Evolution 1200 engine is also fitted with high-performance cams for enhanced torque output. Compression ratio is 9.7:1.
The XL Evolution engines have also been restyled, with a new look for the primary, sprocket and derby covers and a new shape for the classic oval air cleaner cover. New two-piece rocker box covers set the Evolution engines apart. The exhaust cross-over pipe is now hidden behind the mufflers to provide an uninhibited view of this beautiful engine.
The XL Evolution 883 engine is rated at 53 peak horsepower at 6000 rpm and 51 ft. lbs. of torque at 4300 rpm. The XL Evolution 1200 engine is rated at 70 peak horsepower at 6000 rpm and 79 ft. lbs. of torque at 3500 rpm, an increase of more than 15 percent over the previous XL Evolution 1200 engine."
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"Magna Res Est Vocis Et Silentii Temper Amentum"
(The Great Thing Is To Know When To Speak, And When To Keep Silent)
And By The Way; I'm Not Your "Bro"..
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RE: 1200 vs 883 power difference - 5/11/2008 5:11:20 PM
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kneichko
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I would recomend the 1200. I have the 07 1200c and sometimes i wish i got bigger(bike that is). I wouldn't recommend the 883 for that reason alone. If your a big guy I say the 1200. IMHO.
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RE: 1200 vs 883 power difference - 5/11/2008 8:29:57 PM
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hogsport
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Both are great bikes. I almost bought an 883 last fall, but OL suggested I get the 1200. Glad she did She hasn't ridden, but the extra torque is great. If buying used, the diff is sometimes less than 1k.
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RE: 1200 vs 883 power difference - 5/12/2008 5:21:21 AM
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txoval
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The hard part about offering advice is that it's just our opinion, not yours. So take this however you will...
I haven't heard of any concerns about money, but if I was buying a bike for 2-up riding I wouldn't consider either. If you like the look of the Sportster I'd take a look at the Dyna Super Glide or Street Bob. They are a little bigger (two up riding comfort), better suspension, have plenty of power, and better cruising gears for long rides.
Like I said just my opinion, both the SuperGlide and Street Bob are about 3-4K more in the end but I think you'd be happier with both. That being said I always ride solo and I know there are a lot of people here who ride 2-up on their sportsters. I would give them a look though
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