New member needs advice
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Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 83
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From: Misery
I doubt you'll heed this advice, but...
Pick up an older 883 or 1200 on craigslist for a couple thousand.
Make it look like an Iron if that's what you really want.
Save thousands and not have payments.
Use that money for mods.
Pick up an older 883 or 1200 on craigslist for a couple thousand.
Make it look like an Iron if that's what you really want.
Save thousands and not have payments.
Use that money for mods.
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Novice
Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 24
Likes: 0
From: Mass
Hearing from people who own these bikes definitely takes some of the worry away. I know when I go for my test ride I'll make sure the bike does what I need. I just didn't want to get too far down the planning road and find I'm looking at the wrong bike. It's looking like the 883 will fit the bill if I actually fit comfortably on it 
Also I asked in my intro thread, but it makes sense to ask here. What engine is in the sportsters now? It's billed as an Evo, but I thought they stopped making Evos when the twin cam came out. Is it still an old Evo or is it some hybrid sort of engine now? I'd like to know just so that I can check on parts and stuff.
Also I asked in my intro thread, but it makes sense to ask here. What engine is in the sportsters now? It's billed as an Evo, but I thought they stopped making Evos when the twin cam came out. Is it still an old Evo or is it some hybrid sort of engine now? I'd like to know just so that I can check on parts and stuff.
Cruiser
Joined: Dec 2010
Posts: 150
Likes: 18
From: South Florida
Yep the Sportster is an Evo, probably the best part is that HD has kept it up to date with fuel injection, rubber mounted engine, and available factory customization. As for parts no worries, whether you take the suggestion and get a used one and save thousands or brand new, plenty of parts and dealers everywhere. Your first mod should include some decent shocks and maybe some upgrade of the forks. Those Mass winters are hell on the roads.
I bought my 1200 for about 1/2 price with only 300 miles, a garage queen for sure. It didnt feel broken in until after 5K. In the end I am glad I bought my 1200, but I am searching for an older EVO touring 1993-98 and will keep the Sporty.
I bought my 1200 for about 1/2 price with only 300 miles, a garage queen for sure. It didnt feel broken in until after 5K. In the end I am glad I bought my 1200, but I am searching for an older EVO touring 1993-98 and will keep the Sporty.
I do agree with swampdoc , I've had my 883 now for 5 yrs bought it new 26,000 miles later never had any regret' s with my sportster . I love more now then the day I got it and it does great on all roads city, highway and even Deals GAP . But get what you want your the one riding it and paying for it just don't ride over your head . Be safe man.
Intermediate
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 29
Likes: 0
From: Tampa FL
It depends on you. I know a guy that's been riding the same 883 since 93 and he still loves his bike.. If you want a little more "off the line" power you can always change the sprocket.. Then change the air in/out.. FFW 3 years down the road and now you're ready for more change it out to a 1200 with the 883 heads.. the 883 IMO anyway is a great bike with lots of potential.. My bike is just over 100HP and comes in at 420lbs.. I still think the iron is one fun ride.
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Novice
Joined: Jul 2014
Posts: 24
Likes: 0
From: Mass
Thanks for all the info guys. Most of the folks I know who ride are on import sport bikes so my info on these HD's is limited. I'm already glad I joined this forum 
I've been doing a bunch of reading through old threads and in performance reviews and already figured that 13" shocks will be a must for me. I'd also like to raise the front an inch or 2 just to keep everything balanced and stable. I think technically the 883 is too small for me (6'1-185), but with a bit of a suspension boost and the right seat it should be great. I ride bmx so I'm actually more comfortable on smaller bikes than on the big heavy cruisers. I've ridden on the back of a big HD bagger before and it just didn't feel right in the turns.
I've been doing a bunch of reading through old threads and in performance reviews and already figured that 13" shocks will be a must for me. I'd also like to raise the front an inch or 2 just to keep everything balanced and stable. I think technically the 883 is too small for me (6'1-185), but with a bit of a suspension boost and the right seat it should be great. I ride bmx so I'm actually more comfortable on smaller bikes than on the big heavy cruisers. I've ridden on the back of a big HD bagger before and it just didn't feel right in the turns.
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