Can you pick it up by yourself? Get some crash bars on it, so that it does not fall all the way flat to the ground, and get someone to coach you on the proper lifting technique, and maybe you can. I am a big fan of the 883 as a learner bike provided you have the strength to pick it up when (not if) you drop it. Yes, there will be some awkward moments learning on a bike that heavy, but in my mind the initial awkwardness is out-weighed by how fast you will "Out Grow" the smaller machines. My first bike, 46 years ago, was a 250 Suzuki. I rode it from Lansing Michigan to Hammond Louisiana. Big Mistake. Miserable, dangerous trip. An 883 would have been a Big Improvement.


What are your intentions with the bike? If you think you will be content putting around town for a couple of years, and if you are not very strong, maybe a smaller bike is the right choice. But if you want to get out on the highway, get a machine big enough to do it.

 

sportsters are top heavy and as such, not really the best for 'beginners bikes'. that being said, there are a lot of people who learned on sportsters, my wife and I among them. I can tell you this, it took my wife 6 months before she would ride my road king after I sold my sporty. she was intimidated by the size. when she finally did ride it, she couldn't believe how much easier it was to ride than her sporty. the weight is a lot more balanced.

so, not telling you not to get the sporty, but just be aware that the weight is balanced up higher and will most likely end up with you dropping it a couple of times (usually while stopped)

 

My wife has an 06 883C. It is her first bike and she's had it a coupe of years now. She likes it, but she dumped it at least 3 times in parking lots the first couple of months, luckily with no damage. As said it is top heavy, the C model more so because of the 21" front tire. The crash bars are a good idea as well.
Good luck.

 

I think you might want to go right to a 1200. Hec I'm 5'2" 150 lbs and have no probs. I think down the Rd you'll look for more power... it can be addictive

 

A lot of things to consider given here. Being 5-6 and 120# doesn't give a lot of information. You know whether or not you're a gym rat or a college student's grandmother, or maybe both? What are your physical limitations (if any). Can you hold it up? Can you pick it up? I also started on dirt bikes (about 40 years ago) and got a Road Glide in April. I've had to pick it up a few times and each is a learning experience, as is most every ride I take. A lot of women your size ride baggers, so don't let your size hold you back. After all, it is the size of the fight in the dog that carries the day. An 883 is an excellent starter bike. Only you can decide if it is right for you.