I will be getting my first Harley, and first bike in two to three weeks. I was looking at both the Dyna and Sporty, and have decided to go with the Sporty. I have looked at both the 1200C and 1200L, and want to see if their are any major differences between the two? All things being equal I like the 1200L the best. Both bikes are 08. I will also be taking the MSF class. Also, any suggestion for mod's when I buy?

 

The 1200C and L are very similar bikes. The L stands for low. Its seat height is about 1" lower than the C. Other differences are in the details. Alloy rims vs. spokes. The C has a larger, narrower front tire. The C gets forward controls and the L gets mids. Mids are in my opinion, easier for beginners as their feet are that much closer to the ground and can get there that much quicker. The bars are different. It comes down to what fits you better. Which ever that is is the bike for you. My wife rides a 1200L that is now pretty much a 1200C.

 

Commander said it right. My wife also has 2007 1200 Low but is more like a 1200C, she wanted forwards, and I also put risers on it to bring the handle bars up and back to her. She is a happy rider.

 

Matter of preference and function I believe. If you are tall enough I would go with the 1200 C. I have the 1200 L with highway pegs but wish I had the forwards. Still may put them on.

 

I bought a 2005 XL1200C last May.With the modifications that I have done to it as well as those I would like to do, I think I would have been better off buying a XL1200L. The only real advantage I see that the Custom has over the Low is the forward controls (and a set of highway bars would compensate). This is just my opinion of course and in no way do I mean to offend those who own Customs. As I said, I have a Custom and I love it but I see now that the Low would have suited me better.

 

I too own a 1200C, as you see in the sig pic. I'm 6'0 and dig the forward controls. The mid-controls are too confining. BUT, you can always add forward controls if you prefer them. Note that the speedo location and handlebars/risers are different. Preference there... Here's a small thing to consider...spoke wheels are harder to keep clean than the "mag" wheels on the low. Good luck with your decision. Either way you'll love it!!!

 

And the "C" also stands for Chrome.

 

Jag, I have the 2007 1200C which I love but if I'd had some previous experience with Sportsters I would have gotten the 1200R, it has 13.5 inch shocks on the back so you could get upgrade after market shocks with 3.5 inchor better travel. If I go with 13.5s I'll have to raise the front an equal amount whereas with the 1200R that would not be necessary. Just a thought. In my case though the 1200R did not come in the two tone green I have.

 

I like them all. But if I could only have one it would be a 1200C Just has that look. It has a chopper,custom,chrome bigger bike look. But then the 1200 low,nightsterand 1200 R have that Hot Rod look I like em all. yea Im confused.

 

I prefer the Custom. However, whatever you get, you won't be making a mistake.