Buying the bike is just the down payment 
Newbie question
Novice
Joined: Aug 2013
Posts: 20
Likes: 0
From: NW Arkansas
I've had my 08 for exactly one week and it's already proved false! Couldn't stand it sounding like a Honda, so Vance and Hines pipes were a must. I agree on the EFI.
Road Master
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 778
Likes: 4
From: Opposite Side of the Planet
Hahahahahah! Too correct! It takes a mighty big person with lots of will power to leave their Harleys stock...;-)
Road Master
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 778
Likes: 4
From: Opposite Side of the Planet
Hi All, Question:
I have recently decided to buy an 883 (long story). That's the good news; the bad is that I don't really know much about them. I understand that starting in 2009 they were equipped with fuel injection. Is this a must-have or a nice-to-have?
Are there any years to avoid or to try and find? Is there any 'optimal' year?
Sorry for the newbie questions, but I really don't know what I don't know. I suspect that I will ride mostly country roads and most probably not longer than an hour or two.
Thanks in advance.
I have recently decided to buy an 883 (long story). That's the good news; the bad is that I don't really know much about them. I understand that starting in 2009 they were equipped with fuel injection. Is this a must-have or a nice-to-have?
Are there any years to avoid or to try and find? Is there any 'optimal' year?
Sorry for the newbie questions, but I really don't know what I don't know. I suspect that I will ride mostly country roads and most probably not longer than an hour or two.
Thanks in advance.
There really are no "bad" sportsters...just "bad" owners...;-) WHATEVER you do, buy a Factory Owner's manual for your bike (can get through Harley) and if you plan on doing any work yourself a Factory Service manual before you even attempt to turn a wrench.
Thread Starter
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Road Master
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 797
Likes: 166
From: MA
Thanks guys : )
I am mechanically inclined, but don't really have the desire to get into heads, trans, etc.
Regarding stock, I hear ya - I was referring mostly to engine, exhaust, suspension....
This does bring up a question that I'm sure has come up: given I am a newbie, does it make more sense to buy this first bike from a dealer? Even though it will cost a bit more?
I am mechanically inclined, but don't really have the desire to get into heads, trans, etc.
Regarding stock, I hear ya - I was referring mostly to engine, exhaust, suspension....
This does bring up a question that I'm sure has come up: given I am a newbie, does it make more sense to buy this first bike from a dealer? Even though it will cost a bit more?
Extreme HDF Member
Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 12,986
Likes: 715
From: NE Philly
A carbed (2003 and earlier; 2004-2006) bike will make it easier and cheaper to modify and adjust. The idle is easier to adjust and many will say a carburetor sounds better. I agree with that.
The EFI (2007- present) will allow you to start the bike in cold weather easier, ride in different altitudes easier and be more reliable overall.
There are plenty of great used 2004 and up Sportster with low mileage for a good price. Get the service manual and it'll pay for itself 10x over.
I have, as well as many here, used the Sporty on the highway and toured extensively on them. They are extremely versatile. They can be a bar hopper and world navigator. And everything in between.
One thing to note, there are currently 3 different sized tanks offered on a Sporty. The 2.2 gal, the 3.3 gal and 4.5 gal. Choose wisely.
You won't keep it stock for long. Just accept that fact and be happy. lol
This is my 3rd Sportster and would like to have a 4th Ironhead sometime. A sporty is the only bike I have owned so far. Ignore all the others that might steer you away from one. If it's what you have your mind set on one you won't be disappointed.
The EFI (2007- present) will allow you to start the bike in cold weather easier, ride in different altitudes easier and be more reliable overall.
There are plenty of great used 2004 and up Sportster with low mileage for a good price. Get the service manual and it'll pay for itself 10x over.
I have, as well as many here, used the Sporty on the highway and toured extensively on them. They are extremely versatile. They can be a bar hopper and world navigator. And everything in between.
One thing to note, there are currently 3 different sized tanks offered on a Sporty. The 2.2 gal, the 3.3 gal and 4.5 gal. Choose wisely.
You won't keep it stock for long. Just accept that fact and be happy. lol
This is my 3rd Sportster and would like to have a 4th Ironhead sometime. A sporty is the only bike I have owned so far. Ignore all the others that might steer you away from one. If it's what you have your mind set on one you won't be disappointed.
Advanced
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 58
Likes: 0
From: East Tenn
Depending on your weight and if you will be carrying a passenger, check out the 1200cc bikes too. Cost is a little more but the torque is much better. Plus the value remains more higher plus you will probably want MORE Horsepower shortly after your purchase. Try taking both a 883 and a 1200 out for a ride THEN decide if that is an option. Good luck, ride safe and live free
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Cruiser
Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 211
Likes: 1
From: Brooklyn, NY
Hiways and Road Trips?
I have 2002 Sporty with and S&S Super E carb. I ride it everywhere including road trips and hiways. Go for the 1200 and take that bad boy out and ride it like you stole it!
Last edited by charlieapes; Sep 25, 2013 at 04:41 PM.
