How tall is too tall for the Iron 883?
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 8,641
Likes: 26
From: Ozark Country
I'm 6'2 with a 35 inch inseam and I feel cramped on my 1200C, even with it's so called 'forward controls'.
If I rode it more than I do I'd probably have some 3+ inch extensions fabricated for the controls.
The forward controls on the Sportsters were moved about 1.5" closer to the rider when they made the 2004 changes, so I guess they thought most Sportster riders had shorter inseams or something.
If I rode it more than I do I'd probably have some 3+ inch extensions fabricated for the controls.
The forward controls on the Sportsters were moved about 1.5" closer to the rider when they made the 2004 changes, so I guess they thought most Sportster riders had shorter inseams or something.
Cruiser
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 177
Likes: 22
From: South Jordan, Ut
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Tourer
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 268
Likes: 0
From: Wilmington, NC
+1 on the rental. Seriously. Taking the demo around the block a few times won't give you the full impression. I'm 6'1" with a 36" inseam, and sorry to tell you man, you'll not only be cramped up, you just won't look right on it.
I had my Nightster for a year, loved it it death, but had to trade up to a Dyna. Not only was I all jammed up on the thing even with the forward controls, but it seemed (and maybe I'm the only one who thinks this) that the engine had sort of a hard time pulling my 200+ lbs @$$ around at highway speeds.
Don't do what I did in getting the 1200N and then take a huge beating on the trade in. Just get what you really want/need the first time around.
Of course I'm obligated to end by saying that it doesn't matter what any of us think, get whatever you want!
I had my Nightster for a year, loved it it death, but had to trade up to a Dyna. Not only was I all jammed up on the thing even with the forward controls, but it seemed (and maybe I'm the only one who thinks this) that the engine had sort of a hard time pulling my 200+ lbs @$$ around at highway speeds.
Don't do what I did in getting the 1200N and then take a huge beating on the trade in. Just get what you really want/need the first time around.
Of course I'm obligated to end by saying that it doesn't matter what any of us think, get whatever you want!
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Tourer
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 375
Likes: 1
From: Jackson NJ
Sportsters are bikes that short people can ride comfortably. My wife is 5-1 and fits well on a Sportster. I feel a little cramped on it at 5-10 so I would think that anyone over 6 foot is going to have difficulty being comfortable, especially with mids. There are bars, seats, and forwards / highway bars that can make the bike fit you, but I would advise you to rent a couple of bikes, the Iron that you want, and a Dyna; and see how you feel after riding one for a few hours. The decision you make is goinig to cost you a few thousand dollars and you are probably going to have to live with the decision for a couple of years so its worthwhile taking your time and trying things out.
Novice
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 24
Likes: 0
From: Derbyshire, UK
I am 6' 4" and I had no problem whatsoever with my XL883. I found it comfortable for long distances and did not get any cramps in my legs. I know the ground clearance and seat height is greater on the standard 883 compared to the 883 Iron, but the distances between the pegs, bars and seat should still be more or less the same. I've now sold my 883 having traded it in for a Road king but I miss riding it and will get another one in the future ... wife and finances permitting ! I would definitely go for the 883 Iron, I'm sure you'll love it !!!