I had a Yamaha Virago 700 with mid controls that I rode for a few years and never drug the pegs on. Maybe because I rode dirtbikes a lot then and had the leg out when cornering mindset. Still, I think from day one I've felt way more confident and comfortable on the Sportster than I ever did on my Virago.

I've been riding to work everyday recently for a couple reasons. The main reason being that I bought the bike to ride, and two, somehow I broke a coil spring on my Mustang and am waiting for parts. Anyway on my way to work I use an interstate on-ramp that has two lanes, good banking, and is brand new. I have drug everyday on it this week. I don't feel I am pushing myself outside my comfort level at all. It just kind of snuck up on me where I'm cornering much smoother and it seems to be coming naturally.

Here's a pic of the old Virago, whose footpegs where never in danger when I rode it.

 

You have foward controls or mid controls?...The XL Customs and the XL Low's are very low and is VERY easy to drag just about anything, I drag my pipes and my kickstand, im on spring #4 for my kickstand!

 

i make lots of sparks on my nightster. i'm thinking about a rigid frame this winter, and will definately look for something a little higher off the ground.

 

That means you are a real rider, no worries.

 

I drag pegs occassionally... But not nearly as much with the forward controls.

 

I drag pegs occassionally.. But not nearly as much with the forward controls

 

I have forwards on my Sportie, they come stock on the 1200 Custom. I had mids on the Virago.

I do think the difference in handlebars have a something to do with my comfort on the Sportie vs the old Virago in the curves.

 

Same on my 1200N. Never yet drug the pegs, I think mainly because the kickstand or muffler bolts drag first! The mounting nuts on the forward muffler are starting to become wedge shaped.

 

The real test is measuring your "chicken" line on the rear tire, I've got about an eight of an inch that I can't seam to scrub off.
PS: you said it's new pavement...be careful, new blacktop can be slippery, especially on hot days as there is a lot of oil migrating to the surface.

 

I'm pretty sure it is actually concrete, and I'm on it in the mornings when it is a little cooler. I don't know the grip characteristics of new concrete, but I guess I "feel" the grip is there.