I plan on getting a Sportster as my first bike, and it's the only Harley within my budget. I have ridden on the back of a bike before when I was younger. As a 5'5" female I'm not sure if the seat height will fit me but I could fix that with the right boots or seat mod. I will take the MSF course beforehand by the way. I will also go sit on a few bikes to get a feel for them. The one I'm looking at is a 97 custom. Will this be an okay first bike or should I look for something else? :/

 

What ever bike you like will be ok for a first bike. Just take your time on it while learning. You are already doing good by taking the MSF. Just don't pay too much for a used sportster. They bottom out at around 2500$. You should be able to find a nice 97 custom for 3 to 4k. You can always get lower shocks and a lower seat to accommodate your height. Especially on a 97 custom because they sit high.

Good luck and make sure you post some pics when you find a bike.

 

Good luck with the MSF. The wife and I did ours in May. We both enjoyed the course and learned a lot. She has started out on an 883 Super low. She's about 5' 6". May be something for you to look at as well.

 

Good luck on your msf. I was worried as hell taking mine and I passed it easy. Got an iron 883 and I'm a shade over 5 ft 6. Any sporty Shouldn't be a problem for anyone small to ride.

 

Good luck & enjoy the course.

 

At 5'5" and the 888L you should be able to reach the pegs and get at least one foot flat. Good luck with the MSF class.

 

MSF best decision I made when getting my first bike. Enjoy the coarse, congratz on getting out of the cage.

 

Thank you all! The seat height is supposed to be 26.5" and I think my inseam length is 31"

 

im a small lil fella hahaha im 5 ' 6" my 883 fits me perfect - the 1200 was also great, but i dont need to go fast im just in it for the ride .. you should be fine with the ride height, and you can always lower the shocks or get another seat to make it what u want it !!

in the end when u sit on one you will know its "yours"
you will know when the bike " picks you"

good luck with the msf

 

Thank you so much! That diffused my worries