Just need to figure out more questions before I go back.
883 or 1200
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 4,525
Likes: 8
From: Wheeling, WV
Last edited by WVHogRider; Mar 6, 2009 at 07:30 AM.
Road Captain
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 615
Likes: 1
From: Nederland, Tx
I wouldn't be too concerned with weight.. im 5.7 about 120lbs and I can handle mine ok.. its my first bike... suites me fine.. but I would have to agree.. go sit on a couple ... even ones that you know you would never buy.. that way you at lease know what feel your going for..
Last edited by 3rdgear; Mar 6, 2009 at 08:45 AM. Reason: TYPO...
Cruiser
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 208
Likes: 0
From: Mississippi
I bought a slightly used 2003 883 in Nov 08. I did a little upgrading on the performance. I am 5' 10" and 225 lbs. I have all the power I need in the 883. Your not going to be racing anyway! Most of your riding is going to be at 60mph or below. You are not going to like riding on the Interstate due to all the big trucks blowing you from side to side with the wind.
I have to smaller 3.3 gal tank and I can run about 120 miles before I have to switch to reserve.
I'll bet you spend more time waxing the bike than you will riding it, I know I do!
I have to smaller 3.3 gal tank and I can run about 120 miles before I have to switch to reserve.
I'll bet you spend more time waxing the bike than you will riding it, I know I do!
Road Warrior
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 1,342
Likes: 4
From: Lincoln, Nebraska
They are exactly the same size... The only difference is the engine, some chromed parts, that strip on the tank, and a bigger horn.
Thread Starter
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Cruiser
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 225
Likes: 0
From: MD
If they are the same bike, is there any reason why you cant but a gas tank and just change them ?
I tried to ask the dealer this (HD of Maryland) in Elkridge he said "that would be a factory special order" like it was some big deal.
I tried to ask the dealer this (HD of Maryland) in Elkridge he said "that would be a factory special order" like it was some big deal.
Stage I
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
From: Houston
About a year ago I was in the same position as you. I knew I wanted a Harley as my first bike and was seriously leaning toward an 883 low. My friend, who is an experienced rider, convinced me to go with a 1200C. I do not regret it one bit. You'll get considerably more power on the highway with forward controls. Don't be scared of the weight of the bike either, it's not that much more than an 883 and you will get used to it quick. good luck on your purchase.
Cruiser
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 178
Likes: 1
From: Rockport, Texas
I believe that you can change out the tank from the 3.3 to the 4.5. You will need to get a different seat since the rear edge of the seat fits right next to the tank.
Don't worry though, most of the folks here don't use the factory seats for long anyway.
One other bike you may want to look at is the 883 Roadster. It has more ground clearance than most of the other Sportsters. It has mid-controls but because of the extra height of the bike, may fit your size frame. Alternatively, you could look for an 2008 Roadster. It comes with the 4.5 gallon tank, but is a 1200 rather than an 883. Couple other nice points about the Roadster models is that they come with a tachometer as well as the speedo and also come with dual front disc brakes.
I guess I am a little prejudiced since I ride a 2008 !200 Roadster myself.
Don't worry though, most of the folks here don't use the factory seats for long anyway.
One other bike you may want to look at is the 883 Roadster. It has more ground clearance than most of the other Sportsters. It has mid-controls but because of the extra height of the bike, may fit your size frame. Alternatively, you could look for an 2008 Roadster. It comes with the 4.5 gallon tank, but is a 1200 rather than an 883. Couple other nice points about the Roadster models is that they come with a tachometer as well as the speedo and also come with dual front disc brakes.
I guess I am a little prejudiced since I ride a 2008 !200 Roadster myself.
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Cruiser
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 225
Likes: 0
From: MD
went today and put $ on a new 1200C red hot sunglo, I will bring it home in a few weeks.
thanks for the toughts and replies.
thanks for the toughts and replies.
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Road Warrior
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 1,599
Likes: 11
From: Colonial Beach, Virginia
Ok I fell out of bed and bumped my head. After saying for many years Id never own a motorcycle, Im thinking Im going to buy one. Probably never buy another.
Im stuck between the 883 and the 1200. I wanted a lowrider, but the custom has a larger gas tank. the sales guy said in to big for the 883L . 6' but only 155 lbs. So I dont want a heavy bike.
So far my main problem with the 883L ins the small gas tank. I dont need to nor will I ever drive 90 or 100 mph on 2 wheels so Im not crazy about paying the extra for the 1200, but I want the bigger tank, I may cross the country one day. Cost is an issue.
Opinions wanted
Im stuck between the 883 and the 1200. I wanted a lowrider, but the custom has a larger gas tank. the sales guy said in to big for the 883L . 6' but only 155 lbs. So I dont want a heavy bike.
So far my main problem with the 883L ins the small gas tank. I dont need to nor will I ever drive 90 or 100 mph on 2 wheels so Im not crazy about paying the extra for the 1200, but I want the bigger tank, I may cross the country one day. Cost is an issue.
Opinions wanted
Last edited by 1200Cdriver; Mar 21, 2009 at 06:10 PM. Reason: Add content.
Cruiser
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 185
Likes: 0
From:
Go with the 1200L, its got the same size tank as the 1200C and it will be about a grand cheaper than the 1200C. Last thing you want to happen is half a year from now find out the 883 is not enough bike for you. I'm 6'1 and 240lbs and ride the 1200L with forward controls. The only drawback to it are the mid-controls which can be changed for the forward controls for a couple hundred $. Or if you find someone who prefers the Custom with the mid-controls you can do a swap and all it will cost you is the labor, and even then if you're a little mechanically inclined you can probably do that yourself.