Need input
Need input
Hey guys ive been reading here for a while but just registered. Im tryin to decide on my first bike. I have it down between the Nightster and the XL883. I love the look of the nightster but dont kno if itll be to much bike. BTW im like 6'-6'1 and 165ish. Thanks for the help
Tourer
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 452
Likes: 0
RE: Need input
Here's my two cents for what it's worth-Harley doesn't make a beginner's bike. The 883 can get you in just as much trouble as quickly as a 1200 Sportster.
Take the Rider's Edge beginner's course at your local HD dealer, they use Beull 500's. Or, if that's not an option, take the local MSF course, they use 250cc bikes. After that you should be able to make a better decision as to how much bike you can handle.
Don't worry, you are going to have a blast learning!
Take the Rider's Edge beginner's course at your local HD dealer, they use Beull 500's. Or, if that's not an option, take the local MSF course, they use 250cc bikes. After that you should be able to make a better decision as to how much bike you can handle.
Don't worry, you are going to have a blast learning!
RE: Need input
already took the MSF course. the guys that taught the class said that the 1200 was easy to learn and the 883 was closer to its flat track routes in terms of ease to ride
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 5,068
Likes: 396
From: Edmonton Alberta Canada
RE: Need input
That throttle isn't an on/off switch you know, you don't have to use all the power that's available. Read thru the posts here about all the 883's upgrading to 1200, unless your a grannie your going to want the extra power some day so you might as well save yourself the trouble and get a 1200 now IMHO.
Look at getting a slightly used 1200, there are lots of good deals out there.
Look at getting a slightly used 1200, there are lots of good deals out there.
Road Master
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 1,167
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Road Captain
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 663
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RE: Need input
95 1200 Sporty here. First bike I have ever had.. Go with the 1200 man. I have been riding 6-7 months now and already want more power!
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Stellar HDF Member
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 3,164
Likes: 6
From: Greenfield, Massachusetts
RE: Need input
I bought an XL 883 Low because I wasn't sure I was ready for a bigger bike, more power, etc. I really had my eyes on the Nighster (but was also not sure I'd get financing). Three months later, I traded it in for the Nighster. No problem getting used to it. Yes, more "ooph", which is what I realized I wanted and was ready for. Go for the Nightser. I don't think you'll be sorry, and you'll avoid what I went through, losing money in a trade when I should have gone with the 1200 in the first place.
Intermediate
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 28
Likes: 0
From: Bucks County, PA
RE: Need input
My vote is go with the 1200N. I was in the same situation. Never riden in my life, took the MSF course and purchased a 2007 1200N. The 30 mile ride home from the dealer was the first time I'd ever riden on the road. Not much different than the 250's used in the course if you're careful with the throttle.