2003 vs newer models
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Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2007
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From: Northern NJ
2003 vs newer models
Hi All-
I'm deep into my sportster lust and will be buying one soon. I really love the look of the Anniversary model 1200 custom and the going prices are very reasonable. I've read all about the vibration issue. Is it really that bad? Also, what other (if any) issues have folks had with the '03 models. Should I just go with one of the newer models? Thanks guys.
I'm deep into my sportster lust and will be buying one soon. I really love the look of the Anniversary model 1200 custom and the going prices are very reasonable. I've read all about the vibration issue. Is it really that bad? Also, what other (if any) issues have folks had with the '03 models. Should I just go with one of the newer models? Thanks guys.
Road Warrior
Joined: Feb 2006
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From:
RE: 2003 vs newer models
No, it's not that bad. They're really not that different. I've owned both, they're all great bikes. The biggest difference that I notice is at highway speedsthe 04+ is more comefortable.
Road Master
Joined: Sep 2006
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RE: 2003 vs newer models
I've owned a 2000 1200C for years and vibration has never been an issue for me. I've never ridden a post 03 and think I'll keep it that way. A friends 99 vibrates morebut he's modified it to the max with Buell heads, 1250cc, cam, carb, etc., but is still tolerable. As far as other concerns with 03, there about 50lbs lighter due to beefed up frame on the 04,etc.. If your like the bike,hasn't beenabused,serviced, and price is right you shouldbe happy.
Road Warrior
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 1,334
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RE: 2003 vs newer models
That answer to that is it depends. Some of those bikes were paint shakers while the others were very well balanced and mostly vibration free. It also depends on how much vibration someone can tolerate. Some people will complain about small amount of vibration while others don't notice it.
If I were to get an solidmount, then I would look for a sportster sport. Those came with some great brakes (4-piston caliper dual disk up front), great suspension (adjustable front and back), the lean angle on them was unreal (37/37), and they had a hopped up engine from the factory that was comparable in power to the rubbermounts. Actually, the rubbermounts inherited the sportster sport cams. To top it off the bikes were 50-60 lbs lighter.
If I were to get an solidmount, then I would look for a sportster sport. Those came with some great brakes (4-piston caliper dual disk up front), great suspension (adjustable front and back), the lean angle on them was unreal (37/37), and they had a hopped up engine from the factory that was comparable in power to the rubbermounts. Actually, the rubbermounts inherited the sportster sport cams. To top it off the bikes were 50-60 lbs lighter.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2005
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From: toontown
RE: 2003 vs newer models
I have a 2003 and honestly have no vibration problem. I can see stuuf in the mirrors at idle and at 60 the same. My local dealership mechanics love the pre 04's better.
I am in the market for a Ultra or Road King and may even sell my Sporty if the right deal came along, but I would rather keep it if I can financially swing both.
I am in the market for a Ultra or Road King and may even sell my Sporty if the right deal came along, but I would rather keep it if I can financially swing both.
Advanced
Joined: Aug 2006
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RE: 2003 vs newer models
I didn't care for the vibration on the rubber mounted 1200's, but I'd been riding a GL1500 Gold Wing for 14 years so I was used to ultra smooth. Because of this (and money issues) I bought the XL883 which is smoother than the 1200's. On the other hand, I've previously owned an ironhead Sportster that I liked very much so the Wing probably spoiled me. I would say get what you can afford that turns you on. If I had my choice with money being no consideration, I'd have an '07 FI model. I like the concept of turning the key and going, without having to fuss around with the enrichener and warm-ups. I agree that the '03 Anniversary was a great looking Sportster.
Tourer
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 466
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From: Ontario, Canada
RE: 2003 vs newer models
Mine's a 2003 XLH883, my first Harley, and really the vibration is not bad, no worse than the '99 V-Star 650 I had previous to this. For me it's a keeper just have to finish accessorising it.
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Road Warrior
Joined: Jul 2006
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From: East Central Illinois
RE: 2003 vs newer models
I have a rubber mount now but have ridden solid mounts before. And I have to tell you I don't notice any more vibration in the solid than I do my rubber mount. And hell, the mirrors are useless on either of them, position and vibration. But the jump of the motor at idle is the aura of the sportster and I wouldn't have it any other way.