When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
I'm thinking about buying a Nightster. I like the looks. I don't really care for the 1200C. But this retro look is great. The other bike I considered is on the opposite side of the spectrum, the Suzuki Hayabusa. I have had 2 Sport bikes in the past (2001 GSXR-600 and a 2002 CBR954RR), but I've tamed down from my those days of speed and wheelies since I now have 2 kids (the $9400 price tag is also attractive since I have kids). I never rode a 1200 Sportster HD before, but I think now is the time. Is the N a good choice? I know its no rocket but does it have enough power to get out of its own way and move my 210lb pile of flesh? Thanks in advance for all your input.
-M
I am 205 with modest mods and it moves pretty quick, it isn't any where near as quick as my 04 CBR 600RR was, I suprised my buddy on a Yamaha FZ6 when I out ran him (he is an amature ride though.). But, I changed over for the same reasons you did...... Kids and getting old!lol
wow im 260 6'3 and my nightster moves man. has no problem at all keeping up with anything and if ya ever want faster u can get a stage 1 kit. but if its quickness you want the nightster has it. take one for a test drive and youll be suprised.
Oops, I just got on the scale and it's closer to 220... Must be the ice cream... Anyways, not looking for a Drag racer, I'm growing to love the sound of a HD... this is why I won't even consider the V-rod. This is very nice for the money. One of my friends who is single and has a $30k custom tells me that I won't like it, and that I'll outgrow it on the first week and that people that have "Real Harleys" laugh at people with sportsters. Like I said, I'm married with children and don't have $18k for a Softtail. But the N is very managable.... I'll keep you guys posted.. Thanks
-M
i love the nightster. but there is one thing that I could see myself outgrowing pretty soon, and I;m a newbie and don't know what I'm missing. You will feel every crack in the road with the stock suspension. I know that i will change it out sooner than later. sometimes, if i'm not paying attention, the smallest bump will throw me 6 inches off the seat. i could see that getting old. that's why i am getting the nightster out of my system now.
You'll like it. I just got a slightly used '08 (under 1k miles) on monday. Been out a few times and love it. My last bike was an '03 CBR 600 f4i. Nightster doesn't have that type of go, but definately have not felt like i was missing any power yet. I was in a similar situation, I just couldn't justify spending 15k for a softail (used) at this point. The N'ster fits the bill. Sound is incredible (V&H shortshots). Definately a rough ride, but you have to know that going into it. 9k for an '08 is a pretty decent deal.
7 Surprising Harley-Davidson Products that Are Not Motorcycles
Slideshow: The bar-and-shield logo shows up on far more than motorcycles, some of the company's most unexpected products have nothing to do with riding.
Slideshow: From the troubled AMF years to modern misfires, these bikes earned reputations for reliability issues, questionable engineering, or disappointing performance.
Crazy Bunderbike Build Looks Amazing, But Is It Impossible to Ride?
Slideshow: The Swiss custom shop has taken a Harley Softail and stretched it into something so long and low that it looks closer to a rolling sculpture than a conventional motorcycle.
Engraved Rebellion: Inside Bundnerbike's Glam Rock II
Slideshow: A standard cruiser becomes an intricate metal canvas in the hands of a Swiss custom house known for pushing Harley-Davidson platforms far beyond their factory brief.
Slideshow: Harley-Davidson's challenges aren't abstract; they show up in dropping shipments, shrinking dealer traffic, and strategic decisions that aren't yet translating into growth.