Thanks to the info I learned scouring this forum and talking with other, HD experienced riders, I settled on a 2011 Sportster 48 with 2200 miles on the ticker. This is my first bike purchase in seven years, of which I've been totally off bikes thanks to a bad ankle break. The full recovery took much longer than expected but I am happy to report pain-free rotation and near-full range movement of my shifting foot. The doctor did not want me back on a bike.
I picked up the bike (dubbed "Rumblin' Rabble Rouser" by my oldest kiddo*) and the rain followed us back home, lasting most of the past month. The bike came with an HD rear seat and backrest, as well as black Vance & Hines Shortshots.
I managed to get out for a short ride around the neighborhood here and there. We finally took an hour-long ride yesterday with the rear seat mounted. I went solo today for a few hours. The suspension is much more firm than my previous '75 Honda CB500T and my '96 Suzuki GS500E. The 48 feels like a hardtail. I'll be making some suspension upgrades in the Spring.

Now for the mods (I've said for years my epitaph will read "He Couldn't Leave Well Enough Alone."
I added Vance & Hines quiet baffles the week I received the bike. They reduce a decent bit of the teeth-rattling thump of this 1200. I'd even consider switching to Super Quiets if need be.
I mounted a National Cycle Flyscreen to take a little wind off my chest. I'd prefer a removable Switchblade Shorty, but they don't fit the 48.

Future mods will consist of a digital speedo with the fuel gauge, tach, and gear display, 12.5" Progressive 412 rear shocks, Denali 2.0 riding lights and for visibility on my commute, and possibly an FP3 to even out the pops and low RPM jumpiness. I purchased a metallic blue 48 tank from another member here, which will be mounted with the gauge swap. I purchased a solo bag with spare fuel canister from another member here. I'll tuck a roadside toolkit in there.

My current riding gear: A Shoei RF-1000 and Joe Rocket Atomic 2.0 jacket & gloves are nearing their useful lifespan, and will be replaced in the Spring with newer gear; most likely an RF-1200 and a newer Atomic 4.0 jacket.

* A very nice reference to Duane Eddy's "Rabble Rouser," and Link Wray's "Rumble."



2011 48 Sportster 1200X

2011 48 Sportster 1200X

 

Looking forward to see the pictures with the blue gastank but I allready like this setup.
Do you really feel any difference with the National Cycle Flyscreen on ? I like it because it is small.

 

Enjoy the 48! Mine is now 3 weeks with me and it has a hard suspension and yes, not smooth below 3000rpm.... mostly due to the Short Shots.... I have a FP3 on mine... it helps a bit....

 

 

Congrats on your new Ride!

I can relate to "He Couldn't Leave Well Enough Alone." lol

Here is the before and after of your bikes twin-







btw, before you spend your hard earned $ on shocks, take a look at this REPORT LINK on rear shocks.

 

Thanks! It was one of the first things I read when I signed up here last month I'll see where I am when it's shock time.

 

Do you find the tunability of the FP3 to be sufficient to your needs?

 

Beautiful bike. Not a fan of windscreens, but I like that one.

John

 

There is a noticeable difference under ideal conditions, though it doesn't do much riding against a strong wind. This could be the ol' butt dyno, but I feel like it kicks the windstream up just enough to keep my chest from being pounded and my helmet getting rocked around.

 

it's like tucking and hammering the throttle......looks good tho