Sportster Models 883, 883 Custom, 1200 Custom, 883L, 1200L, 1200S, 1200 Roadster, XR1200, and the Nightster.
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Old Sep 22, 2010 | 03:53 PM
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I know, I know: this isn't the "newbie" section. I figured I'd probably be spending most of my time in here so this was probably the best place for an intro.

I'm a member of another Harley forum but I just don't jive w/ the guys over there. The whole attitude and mentality definitely isn't for me. After nosing around here for a few I think maybe I'll mesh over here a bit better.

I'm 30yrs old, married, have 2 boys and just recently bought my first Harley: a 2004 883C. Before that I rode a GSXR 750 (still have but trying to sell) which I loved to death but the cramped riding position made the hr. long ride to work a bit uncomfortable. I did manage to do a 1200mi 3 day weekend on that bike last year but it took a knee brace and a lot of teeth gritting to get through it. I decided that maybe I need to find something w/ a bit more "friendly" riding position. I chose the Sporty because I don't like the Road sofa's or equally big bikes. I like a bike that nimble, handles well and is just "big enough". The Sporty seemed like the best "blank canvas" for me to create w/. The aftermarket has everything I need to take care of the bikes shortcomings (power-or lack there-of, suspension, ect) so I pulled the trigger on one. So far I like the bike but boy do I miss the power and handling of that GSXR. Anyway, I figured I'd try it out over here and see if I "fit in" a little better. Hopefully I can be of some help as well.

If you guys are anything like other forums I've been on you live for pics so, here you go:
The Sporty and the "other brand"
 
Attached Thumbnails Introduction-harley1_sm.jpg   Introduction-gsxr_2.jpg  
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Old Sep 22, 2010 | 04:02 PM
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Welcome aboard. A good way to increase the power is a NHRS 1250 conversion kit.
 
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Old Sep 22, 2010 | 04:06 PM
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Thanks.
I have looked intently at that kit. Most likely that will be the project for this winter.
 
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Old Sep 22, 2010 | 04:18 PM
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Welcome!
I was on another forum and used the word crap, which even my sister uses, and got banned for a few days and never went back.

Not much going on there anyway.

Brett
 
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Old Sep 22, 2010 | 04:29 PM
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Welcome - hey, are you the guy who smoked the Nightster dude on another post???

Nice upgrade Honda to Sporty - enjoy! Been there - done that, I'll stick w/my road sofa bagger.
 
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Old Sep 22, 2010 | 04:55 PM
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I did get into a "discussion" w/ another member on the XL foum. That ended up getting the thread locked and another thread deleted all together. Guess I need to learn when to keep my big mouth shut.

Actually the green machine is a Suzuki. It does have a CBR tail section on it though. I didn't like the look of the original and I thought the lines of the CBR matched up really well w/ the tank of the GSXR. Anyway, I don't know about an "upgrade". More of a lateral move in my book. I lost 1/2 my HP and a TON of handling prowess but gained a lot of comfort. That GSXR is a great bike and I thrashed on it for many miles w/ no issues but it just wasn't comfortable for long trips. I wish I could keep both but I've got too many toys as it is. Looks like I'm keeping it till spring anyway as the bike market right now is pretty sucky.
 
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Old Sep 22, 2010 | 10:02 PM
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Welcome aboard. Ya done the right thing coming over here. Lots you can do you can do with a sporty and soon you won't miss the "other" bike.
 
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Old Sep 22, 2010 | 10:12 PM
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Welcome aboard - it can get heated here too - just start a thread about a girls bike or helmet laws and you`ll get into it pretty good here.
 
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Old Sep 22, 2010 | 11:24 PM
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welcome, I'm new here too.. I traded a 05' GSXR 1k for a 97 sportster 883. So I know exactly what your going through.. Like you I have a family, I'm 33 and have 2 girls.. I took WAY to many risks on my other bike, that played a factor in my trading also. I did some 4-5 hour rides on it and it was just uncomfortable in different ways, my harley isnt exactly the cats *** for comfort either..I still am unsure I did the right trade sometimes.. Oh well its too late now, time to customize the harley.. Heres my thread with both bikes.
https://www.hdforums.com/forum/sport...ost-money.html
 
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Old Sep 22, 2010 | 11:46 PM
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Welcome to the forum,
My first Harley, after many other machines. My first mods have been with the suspension, money well spent. Replaced the 11" shocks with 13" and new fork springs. Did not seem to bother the solid way it handles.
Looking at the photo, seems to already have a pair of "Progressive" shocks?
Art
 

Last edited by red883; Sep 22, 2010 at 11:48 PM.
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