Picking a bike?
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 2,573
Likes: 210
From: Montana
Thanks for the suggestion. I've got that response a few times from other people I've asked. Im a tall guy with a slim build and can't see myself getting a larger bike. I intend on only riding around my town for awhile. Do you think my height will be an issue with a stock sportster? Or any stock bike for that matter?
Thanks
Thanks
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 13,107
Likes: 13,053
From: Texas, USA
Welcome to the forum from Texas.
^^^ This is the best advice. Only you know what fits you and what you like. I believe that you have already outgrown a Sporty (pun intended). You should consider a Dyna model.
As an aside, you mentioned you are 6'3" tall weighing 145 lbs. That is a very slim build. You should also consider putting on about 20 lbs.
As an aside, you mentioned you are 6'3" tall weighing 145 lbs. That is a very slim build. You should also consider putting on about 20 lbs.
Road Captain
Joined: Sep 2014
Posts: 592
Likes: 46
From: Connecticut
I'm also 6' 3" bought a used Super Glide with forwards and mini apes. Fits like a glove.
When I was sitting on bikes to get a feel, most felt way cramped. My dealer had a new sporty with forwards and mini apes. It was the ONLY sportster I felt I could have ridden and been comfortable.
To each there own, but you likely need those to things to be comfy.
BTW, while I have 70 lbs on you, the Dyna has been no problem. Got the hang of it in no time. Its been 1.5 years now as my first bike.
When I was sitting on bikes to get a feel, most felt way cramped. My dealer had a new sporty with forwards and mini apes. It was the ONLY sportster I felt I could have ridden and been comfortable.
To each there own, but you likely need those to things to be comfy.
BTW, while I have 70 lbs on you, the Dyna has been no problem. Got the hang of it in no time. Its been 1.5 years now as my first bike.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 7,388
Likes: 3,357
From: usa
The sportster 1200 C with forward controls was a great bike for me . I did change the rear shocks from the stock 11.5" to 13.5 " this stops the bike from bottom out and make for a much softer ride. Look at models 2004 and after for all the up grades like rubber mounted motor.
Also look at www.nationalpowersports.net for used bikes ,they do ship bikes.
Also look at www.nationalpowersports.net for used bikes ,they do ship bikes.
Last edited by Iron lHorse; Feb 7, 2016 at 06:40 AM.
Road Warrior
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 1,727
Likes: 11
From: TN
Peeps..... He has no experience, plans on taking a riding course and does not have a mc endorsement. Do you really think any dealer is going to let him test ride their bikes?? That said, a used Softail or Dyna will be a better fit for a 6'3" frame.
Bwana
Bwana
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 25,310
Likes: 2,446
From: Eastern NE
My son's 1" shorter than you, but weighs a tad more...he looks like an elephant humping a football on my XL1200S. Will you be able to ride a Sporty = yes...will you be comfortable on long treks = probably not. If you do end up w/something in Sportster line-up, make sure it has (1) forward controls, (2) aftermarket seat and (3) taller bars. Good luck & enjoy!
Club Member
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 1,478
Likes: 137
From: PA
My friend bought a 1200 sportster and in two years trade it in for a dyna wide glide. Lost a lot of money. Go with the dyna class you won't be disappointed. JC I'm an inexperienced rider, 6'3 tall and weigh 145. I plan on taking a riders safety course in the next few weeks and intend on buying a used bike in the near future. I'm leaning more towards a sportster and wanted to get an idea of what you guys think and what you would reccomend.
Let me know,
Thanks.[/QUOTE]
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2012
Posts: 36,344
Likes: 3,165
From: Jacksonville
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Joe Kucinski
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2012
Posts: 8,680
Likes: 2,279
From: South Carolina
Definitely. But you will need a motorcycle endorsement in your license to test ride it so do the MSC and get that first. But no reason you can't look at them and sit on them at the dealer that will get you a better feel than you have now.
