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I am a new rider (MSF class taken) and went to the dealer to purchase a New Harley. After making the purchase and putting the down payment on one I am starting to have second thoughts. I ordered an Iron 883 but I am thinking that maybe I should have gone with something else. I don't want the bike to outgrow me in 2-3 years and I have heard that this is generally the case. What is your input as I want this as multi-task bike for cruising around town and back and forth to work.
The 883 will certainly feel underpowered to you after a while. And I think it will take far less than 2-3 years to outgrow it. I was ready to move up after only 3 months of owning a 1200 Sportster. If you can get out of the deal, apply that down payment to something bigger, a dyna at least.
New rider - stick w/the Iron. I've been riding for 35 years & am also looking to add an Iron to my stable. They're nice bike's & very agile so you will gain confidence & experience while enjoying the sweet HD sound. If you end up wanting something bigger down the road - sell, or trade the Iron. Just like any new hobby - gotta start somewhere, but don't go off the deep end & jump righ into the Touring class. Believe me, you'll enjoy the Sporty. I think it's buyer's remorse & once you hit the throttle - it'll all blow away.
For a new rider..... get a cheap used bike. After 6 months go for the nice one.
If you feel confident ( or if you have really good insurance) and you want to get a new bike right off the bat I'd say go with a big twin. My wife outgrew her 1200 within 2 years. She says her new ( to her) fat boy is easier to ride, more comfortable, and way more fun.
John ...... I gotta tell you because i feel so strong on this point .... you have just passed a test that means you are proficient not experienced there is a world of difference ..... cant believe thebarzeen if you feel confident or ( if you have really good insurance ) that sounds encourageing .....WHAT ...... of course you will feel confident you just passed your test ..... but it dont make you an overnight success ...... stick with gaining experience by riding the smaller bike's before you venture up to the big twins .... did you learn to walk or run first ? ...
Last edited by skulltrainharley; Sep 27, 2010 at 01:57 PM.
I am a new rider (MSF class taken) and went to the dealer to purchase a New Harley. After making the purchase and putting the down payment on one I am starting to have second thoughts. I ordered an Iron 883 but I am thinking that maybe I should have gone with something else. I don't want the bike to outgrow me in 2-3 years and I have heard that this is generally the case. What is your input as I want this as multi-task bike for cruising around town and back and forth to work.
John
if you want a big twin then get a big twin. it's your money do what you want to do. big twins aren't any harder to ride than a sportster. just a little heavier, but you don't notice that when you're moving. just when you're stopped or trying to push it around when you're not under power.
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The irons a good bike to start with much more nippier thanthe big twins. I'd cutmy teeth on that then move onto the bigger bikes later. The big twins cost a lot money and you may regret it. You'll also get your money back if you trade up later. I think you've made the right choice short of buying a secondhand bike. At least you've got warranty with a new bike
if you want a big twin then get a big twin. it's your money do what you want to do. big twins aren't any harder to ride than a sportster. just a little heavier, but you don't notice that when you're moving. just when you're stopped or trying to push it around when you're not under power.
I agree, I took a course and got a the biggest harley the next week - a '98 Electraglide classic. You'll out grow that 883 real quick and wish you had bought something bigger. You need to know what you want out of a bike. Do you want to tour ... then get a touring bike. Cruise ... get a cruiser etc... I wouldn't think twice about jumping in to the bike that I can afford and fits my riding style. Just my 2 cents!
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