883 vs 1200
Road Master
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 1,223
Likes: 3
From: Peoria, AZ
Tt242
Happened on this and have run into it on other threads regarding speedometer inaccuracies: I quote= When performing an 883-to-1200 conversion, do not put a 1200 ignition module in. If this is done, the speedometer will be off by approximately 9 MPH because the primary belt drive components are different on both models and causes error. HD recommends using the race tuner (P/N 32124-04B) and install the map for these upgrades.
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 4,541
Likes: 1
From: Nuevo México, Los Estados Unidos de América
883 is geared lower, weights more, less power, that's why the 883 has a hard time at top speed.
Most 1200 builds will make more power than a factory 1200...
883s are cool. I'd get one, ride it, break it in, then get to work on the engine... Buell parts are great...
Most 1200 builds will make more power than a factory 1200...
883s are cool. I'd get one, ride it, break it in, then get to work on the engine... Buell parts are great...
Intermediate
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 42
Likes: 0
From: Spain
Can you tell me what frontend kit you used, and if you're happy with it.
I am thinking of making this mod, your opinion could influence my decision.
Pete
Cruiser
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 103
Likes: 0
From: Brisbane Australia
883
There is nothing wrong with an 883. If you want to put different Cams in,& put 42 Mikuni,V&H short shots,Ignition module etc it will beat the hell out out of a Softail...I did that on Highway! Bike sure goes Fast!! Leaves others wondering what has happened! Mabee later do a 1200kit. Then all they will see is a small dot ahead! (that will be you in the distance ahead).
Tourer
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 272
Likes: 0
From: In your closet
As far as which bike to get..I'd get "her" an 883 Iron, and then ride it all the time.:-)
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 8,831
Likes: 15
From: Nomad
Another one of these threads?
Yes, the 883 is fun. My wife has one. She had a Heritage, which she loved, but got rid of it because MPG was that important to her. The 883 has a nice little zippy feel to it due to its gearing. The downside to that short gearing is that its top end is lacking: try a roll-on at 75mph and you'll see what I mean.
I ride a 1200. I love it. Almost traded it in for a Low Rider on the great deals this winter, but it didn't have the grunt or lean of my Sporty, so I kept it. (Used my trade-in differential money to buy a KLR instead. ) The 1200 has some serious pull off the line, and roll-ons at 75mph are a blast. The MPG is much lower than the 883 in-town, at least how I ride it, but very close on the highway.
Big difference.
But, that said, you can still have some serious fun with an 883.
And, yeah....when you want more power, work the bike. Get a 1200/1250 kit. Give it more suck and blow (air cleaner and exhaust), throw on a fuel management module, go nuts with cams, play with your primary ratios.....you can go crazy and make that thing a screamer that no other air-cooled Harley could catch.
Yes, the 883 is fun. My wife has one. She had a Heritage, which she loved, but got rid of it because MPG was that important to her. The 883 has a nice little zippy feel to it due to its gearing. The downside to that short gearing is that its top end is lacking: try a roll-on at 75mph and you'll see what I mean.
I ride a 1200. I love it. Almost traded it in for a Low Rider on the great deals this winter, but it didn't have the grunt or lean of my Sporty, so I kept it. (Used my trade-in differential money to buy a KLR instead. ) The 1200 has some serious pull off the line, and roll-ons at 75mph are a blast. The MPG is much lower than the 883 in-town, at least how I ride it, but very close on the highway.
Big difference.
But, that said, you can still have some serious fun with an 883.
And, yeah....when you want more power, work the bike. Get a 1200/1250 kit. Give it more suck and blow (air cleaner and exhaust), throw on a fuel management module, go nuts with cams, play with your primary ratios.....you can go crazy and make that thing a screamer that no other air-cooled Harley could catch.
Cruiser
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 101
Likes: 2
From: Richland, Washington
My 883L is perfect at 25 mph or 80 mph. Took it on a 300 mile ride yesterday with some high gusty wind and it did just great! I'm small, 5'4" 130lbs and it's very handleable for me.
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Tourer
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 272
Likes: 0
From: In your closet
An 883 weighs almost 600 pounds, and puts out around 50hp at the crank. Which Japanese "touring bike" weighs more and has less power?