First time HD buyer
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Tourer
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First time HD buyer
I am contemplating buying my first bike ever in the next year. I have ridden in the past but always on someone else's bike. I am thinking of an XL1200R Sportster. Would this be a good bike for someone that has little experience and only wants to use it around town and a 50 mile trip to a large town every once in a great while? I am open to anyone's thoughts.
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RE: First time HD buyer
If you are tall or long legged like myself you might consider forward controls. Alot of the dealers are showing off their 08 this month so you might want to go test ride one. You might come home with a bagger (grin).
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RE: First time HD buyer
You will love the 1200. I opted for the 883 since it was cheaper, insurance was cheaper and I can do a 1250 conversion and still have money to spare. Or you can always go for a used Sporty. There are alot of great deals out there. Either way you will enjoy the scoot.
I second this. I am 6'2" and the forward controls made all the difference in the world.
If you are tall or long legged like myself you might consider forward controls. Alot of the dealers are showing off their 08 this month so you might want to go test ride one. You might come home with a bagger (grin).
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RE: First time HD buyer
ORIGINAL: Dirtball
I am contemplating buying my first bike ever in the next year. I have ridden in the past but always on someone else's bike. I am thinking of an XL1200R Sportster. Would this be a good bike for someone that has little experience and only wants to use it around town and a 50 mile trip to a large town every once in a great while? I am open to anyone's thoughts.
I am contemplating buying my first bike ever in the next year. I have ridden in the past but always on someone else's bike. I am thinking of an XL1200R Sportster. Would this be a good bike for someone that has little experience and only wants to use it around town and a 50 mile trip to a large town every once in a great while? I am open to anyone's thoughts.
I have one for sale, but I think you are too far. Let me know if you are ever in my area, I can hook you up with a deal. 1200R is a great first bike, but has plenty of power once your riding skills are better.
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Joined: Jul 2007
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From: Florida
RE: First time HD buyer
Other forums will tell you the sportsters are not a good choice for a first bike. DON'T LISTEN TO THEM! (I can't even begin to tell you how sick I am of hearing that.)
I had never been on a motorcycle in my life, and I bought the 07 1200L for my first bike. Yes, she is top heavy and yes, she is very eager to please. But I am doing just fine!
I just started riding this summer. My boyfriend is gone all week, so I've been having to ride solo most of the time. Up until Labor Day weekend, my longest ride was about 40 miles. Labor Day weekend, I went on my first group ride and rode over 200 miles in one day. If I had any problems keeping up, it was because of my lack of experience,and not because of my bike. This past weekend, we rode around the block...the long 100 mile block, hehe). The more I ride it, the more I love it!
I think you would be very pleased with the 1200.
I had never been on a motorcycle in my life, and I bought the 07 1200L for my first bike. Yes, she is top heavy and yes, she is very eager to please. But I am doing just fine!
I just started riding this summer. My boyfriend is gone all week, so I've been having to ride solo most of the time. Up until Labor Day weekend, my longest ride was about 40 miles. Labor Day weekend, I went on my first group ride and rode over 200 miles in one day. If I had any problems keeping up, it was because of my lack of experience,and not because of my bike. This past weekend, we rode around the block...the long 100 mile block, hehe). The more I ride it, the more I love it!
I think you would be very pleased with the 1200.
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Tourer
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 330
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From: Marietta, GA
RE: First time HD buyer
Rent one first. Also try taking a few different models for a test ride. You might like the Dynas, Softails, or touring stuff better. The 1200s are pretty quick though. You can ride like an idiot on anything, so there really isn't a "beginner" bike. Just be careful and consider ALL options, HDand import. If I had to buy a Sporty though, I would look used. Much cheaper in most cases and some options are already done (pipes, etc.). Good luck.
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