Sportster Models 883, 883 Custom, 1200 Custom, 883L, 1200L, 1200S, 1200 Roadster, XR1200, and the Nightster.
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Old Jan 20, 2015 | 07:30 PM
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I was recommended an 883 because I'm a 5'3 100ib woman. Would there be a better fit for me or what do y'all think?
 
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Old Jan 20, 2015 | 07:52 PM
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I personally think the 883 is one of he best bikes harley makes. It's incredibly versatile, easy to ride and if you ever want to get some more power, you can do it for much cheaper than getting a new bike, and you can really make the bike rip.

I give you a double thumbs up. If it's comfortable and you like the look, go for it.
 
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Old Jan 20, 2015 | 08:02 PM
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first bike? my wifes first bike was an 883. a lot of people will say if you've just started an getting a first bike...maybe start with a smaller say Honda rebel or similar. the sporty will fill a bit heavy, but with a lot of practice, no biggie.
 
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Old Jan 20, 2015 | 10:09 PM
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I agree with Scooter. If it is your first bike, go with something lighter, smaller and one you won't cry if you drop it. If it is just your first HD and not your first motorcycle, the 883 will be great. If that is the case, I would recommend that you look for an 883L (low). Good luck.
 
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Old Jan 20, 2015 | 11:07 PM
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Originally Posted by HD4T8
I agree with Scooter. If it is your first bike, go with something lighter, smaller and one you won't cry if you drop it. If it is just your first HD and not your first motorcycle, the 883 will be great. If that is the case, I would recommend that you look for an 883L (low). Good luck.
Spend 600-800 on a honda shadow 500 or something embarrassing like that
I did and i have never regretted it. I learned on it and was off it and on my 883 in about 6 months. 883 became a 1200 around 6 months later. I stopped there. Cbr and dyna look good but the bike bug is gone now. Id rather bump my z4 from an e85 to an e89.
 

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Old Jan 21, 2015 | 12:22 AM
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You could also look at a Vespa. They have ones that go 80 mph and they are really easy to handle.
 
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Old Jan 21, 2015 | 04:27 AM
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Originally Posted by AbbyLyn906
I was recommended an 883 because I'm a 5'3 100ib woman. Would there be a better fit for me or what do y'all think?
There is little significant difference between an 883 or 1200 Sportster, except cost and accessories. A good example is the 883 SuperLow and 1200T, which are very similar, except the 1200T has a variety of factory fitted extras to make it attractive as a touring bike. If you have some experience as a rider either of them would be a good choice IMHO. As with all the Harley ranges the variety of models can be a bit confusing on first impressions and will reward plenty of study, to understand each one. We can help you with any queries.

We also have a Queens of the Road section, where you can meet fellow lady riders and get their perspective, rather than the more butch one you are likely to get in here!
 
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Old Jan 21, 2015 | 10:05 PM
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There's little difference between the bikes as far as easy handling.
If you ride in Texas , there is quite a bit of long high speed riding possibly for hours at a time.
The 1200 series bikes have a bit more power , higher gearing for a more relaxed engine RPM at high speeds.
If you're short , get a short one and enjoy the easy handling they offer.
I came from an Ultra Classic (900 lbs) to the '48 model for it's ease of handling and my physical abilities and loss of strength.
I'm having more fun riding now because of this.
Mick
 
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Old Jan 22, 2015 | 11:24 AM
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Originally Posted by AbbyLyn906
I was recommended an 883 because I'm a 5'3 100ib woman. Would there be a better fit for me or what do y'all think?
If it's seat height that has you concerned, then some dynas are lower than sportsters. For that matter, your inseams matter more than your height. You could well be 5'3 but have lotsa legs

And if it's bike weight and maneuverability, then by all means sportsters :-)

But it would help if you told us more about your riding experience.
 
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Old Jan 22, 2015 | 11:40 AM
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Originally Posted by lewk
If it's seat height that has you concerned, then some dynas are lower than sportsters. For that matter, your inseams matter more than your height. You could well be 5'3 but have lotsa legs

And if it's bike weight and maneuverability, then by all means sportsters :-)

But it would help if you told us more about your riding experience.
I actually have no experience. I've been a passenger but that's it. I'm getting a little ahead of myself asking what type of Harley I should get since I still need to take the courses and I'll start on something cheap and small like a honda rebel to get my experience first.
I'm just excited about having a Harley.
I sat on an 883, and a softail slim last night I love both.
 
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