I am considering purchasing an XL (either 883 or 1200) for a cross-country writing and photo trip. I have already crossed the continent a number of times on a "big" bike, and specifically want to make this trip on a Sporty.

Here's my problem. I prefer the 1200 R for the dual disks, quicker turn in with the 19 vs. 21 inch front hoop, tach and slightly better lean angles. What I don't like is the peanut - i.e. 3.5 gal. - tank. The 2005 parts book offers the 4.5 gal. tank from the 1200 C as an accessory but my dealer questions whether it can be fitted because of clearance issues with the bars - athough he admits they have never tried this swap. Has anyone there done or know of someone who has upgraded the 1200R or the 883 to the 4.5 gal. tank? And if so, what was involved? Thanks.

Ray

 

i would think if your gonna get an 04,5,or 06 all the frames would be the same, with the exception of the seat. but with a little cuttin welding, you can make a lot of stuff work, and its not all that expensive. good luck!!

 

Check your Harley catalog. I believe it will specify what is needed (if anything). They definitely offer it, and I'm pretty sure it would not require any cutting or welding. I'm surprised the dealer didn't offer to research this for you.

 

If you get this changed would you please post the results. Thanks

 

It's a bolt on operation for 04 and up. You just need a different seat to pull it off. Take a look at:

http://www.harley-davidson.com/gma/g...bmLocale=en_US

 

Ray: Everything is bolt up except for the location of the XL 1200 R handlebars. They come mounted down on the very top of the triple tree yoke where as the XL 1200 and 883 Customs with the 4.5 gal. tank all have a 3 inch riser between the handlebar and that same triple tree yoke. The 4.5 gallon tank is wider at its front than the 3.3 gallon tank. There will be interference between the 4.5 tank and the stock position handlebars of a XL 1200 R. Also, there will be a slightly different "feel" to the steering of a "R" that has had the handlebars moved upward to clear the larger tank. You might not mind the difference. I did. I tried it and didn't like it enough that I went back to the original handlebar position and the original 3.3 gal. tank. I will just fill up more often. I don't mind a break from the road every 100 to 130 miles.

There is some difficulty in fitting some seats to the larger tank. I found my original "R" seat could be crunched up enough to fit, but my aftermarket Sundowner wouldn't. You might have to alter the front hold-down tongue of the "R" seat slightly. But, it is real easy to find an original "C" seat for sale here or on eBay.

Just a suggestion; as expensive as painted 4.5 gal. tanks are, for what you want, it might be easier to go with a XL 883 C and get the 1200 cc conversion done. There is a kit from Harley that would give you the dual front disc brakes. The "C" models do not come with a front hub all predrilled and tapped for the disc brake on the right side, but the 2004 thru 2006 hubs are properly machined for the disc. You would just have to find a competent machinist to drill and tap 5 screw holes in the "C's" hub. I just finished that same conversion to my XL 883 C before I found and bought my 2005 XL 1200 R.

I found that the 21" wheel/tire and the 19" wheel/tire are all but exactly the same outside diameter because of the different tire cross-sections of the installed tires. I don't think that you will find much difference in handling because of the front tire diameter as long as the two tires in question have the same tread design. The big difference in handling IMHO results from handlebar mounting locations and handlebar widths. The "Rs" come with a handlebar that is about 2" wider than the "Cs" do. That makes a big difference.

Good Luck. If you ride thru the LV area let me know. I would like to see what you wind up with. BC

 

I did the upgrade from the 3.3 to the 4.5 gallon tank on my roadster. All that was required was the mounting kit part #62999-04 and a new seat because the tank is a few inches longer. The tank fits well because the peanut 3.3 gallon is raised in the front and the 4.5 gallon is alot lower and rounder so there was no bar issue. I went with the mustang solo seat and passenger pillion and now my bike looks like one of the big boys(without all the weight). Next will be progressive suspension shocks. Will post pics when (if ever) finished.

 

roadster rider,

Sounds to me like you've made some really nice changes to your "R". Any chance of posting a pic or two now, instead of waiting for more mods? I'd love to see those changes you've made!

Thumper26