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I purchased a slightly used (only 240 miles) 2004 Sporty 883. The seller didn't know if it was a custom or not when asked over the phone, so I found out from the VIN that this was NOT the custom.
Regardless, it was a deal I couldn't refuse, so I purchased the bike anyway. Now I'm wondering what all I'm missing since this isn't a Custom model and which of these differences do you think would make the biggest difference. Gas tank size is one thing that I can see would make a difference! Anything engine performance related?
What about price difference when I look to upgrade - how much less would someone pay for an 883 if it's not a customer (all accessories and extra chrome aside)?
Personally, I like the XL883 better than the Custom and would buy it and NOT the Custom any day. I just think the XL883 screams SPORTSTER! However, the sad fact is, a lot of people (in fact most) probably don't agree with me and prefer the Custom versions, be they 883's or 1200's. Because of this, the XL883 will probably be the lowest priced new and used Sportster for a long time to come. I still think it is the closest there is to the innovative old XLCH, and that was sure on whoop a** bike!
Welcome to this great forum and good luck with your new ride - you're gonna love it!
Personally I like the 1200C but only because I like a lot of chrome and that is the biggest difference I see between the bikes.There are a few other differences but I think both bikes are nice.And as far as I know there isnt any performance difference between the 883 and the 883C.So I dont think your missing much.But everybody has there own preference and thats what makes Sportys so much fun.No two are the same
Forward Controls
2-up seat with passenger foot pegs
4.5 Gallon fuel tank (instead of 3.3)
Chrome neck up around the spedometer and headlight
Laced front wheel (and possibly rear)
Different finish on the motor covers, diff headlight, diff riser / speedo, different tanks, different seats, rear foot pegs, diff shocks, diff wheels, forward vs mid controls.
Also - I think that I remember the rake being slightly different on the custom, and possibly different handlebars.
The motor internals, brakes, exhaust, fenders, etc... all the same as far as I know.
Ya know the metal that was on the primary cover of your Custom? ... I'm pretty sure the whole motor covers (cam cover, tranny sproket cover, etc) are that same polished metal.
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