The sporty will go the distance, if he can. Set it up with a windshield or fairing and a comfortable seat and go for it! He is riding solo, isn't he? Going solo is the only way to go on the sporty, its just too tight, too crowded, traveling two up.

 

+1 - and add a set of highway pegs so he can change-up his riding position.

Also, if you're doing a lot of long distance, 80mph rides, I'd recommend a model with the 4.5 gal fuel tank. Otherwise, you'll eventually tire of his 100 - 120 mile fuel stops. At 80 mph, he's probably going to be getting closer to 40 mpg than 50 mpg.

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The motor is not an issue, even on the 883.
An 883 you might want to gear up a little for long interstate rides, just a sprocket change....

Motors like to spin, they move the oil around and charge up the battery better.
There are little bikes that run high rpm's all the time and last a good long time.
Little light bikes are just more fun to ride.

 

A throttle rocker helps on long runs.

Summer before last the wife and I put 2600 miles on our 2006 1200L in a week. We were both ready to go again even as we were pulling into the driveway at home. It ran 75-80 for hours on end without any problems. The Sporty was great fun on the Dragon!

We are limited as to what she can drag along but you can ship ahead; solo should be a breeze.

 

I have to agree with what everyone is saying, I have gone on a few 200 mile rides on my stock iron with 0 problems but I could see how after a few hundred miles more it would start to get uncomfortable ... however like posted if you make some upgrades that fit you as a rider there should be no problem ! Good luck

 

I've done numerous 300-500 mile days on my Sporty. As noted, a decent seat is a must. I also have highway pegs and on long runs frequently alternate between the highway pegs, the mids, and the passenger pegs. An aftermarket suspension would help as well. Super long interstate runs tend be kind of a drag but, for some, a shield will help with that. I could never resolve the buffeting problems my shield caused so I sold it.

Would a bagger be a lot more comfortable on extended runs? Absolutely. Is a Sporty more than capable of running with the big boys all day? Definitely.

I will say though, I'm ready to get off the bike after 500 miles, that's for sure.

 

The sporty will do 8 hours straight even through semi arid/desert terrain. It just keeps going. I never exceed 75 mph

 

883's will turn about 4,200 Rpms at 75 mph,,,
Shure It can take it but,,, a big guy and a load of gear and mountains,,
You Bagger guys do 80 for a while and you'll wear Him down,,,
The 1200's turn 3,500 RPMs at 75 mph and Love 80,,at least mine does XD

As for comfort,,,depends on what shape He Is In,,
Me I want off every 75 miles to take a leak and drink some water..
I can fart around and ride mine all day BUT,,,,,,
400- 500 Superlsab miles,,,not for me, not on a Sposrty

 

I actually get better gas mileage going 80 mph all day. I think the stop and go in the city is worse when it comes to gas mileage compared to the higher RPM.