Iron 1200 Is Pure Inexpensive Fun in an Attractive Package
For less than $10k, the Iron 1200 serves up plenty of fun for new or experienced riders.
Entry Level Gem
Harley-Davidson makes plenty of high-dollar, supreme riding machines, but it also can't forget about the newer riders who are looking for a more entry-level model to get their foot in the proverbial door. Luckily, it certainly hasn't forgotten about those folks, and offers a very enticing, sub-$10k machine - the Iron 1200.
Photos: Harley-Davidson
Throwback Bike
For starters, the Iron 1200 is a great-looking bike dripping with retro style, and above all, it's simple. That can be a good or bad thing depending on how you look at it, but in this case, we appreciate the Iron's lack of complexity. And every time you look at it, that will be the case, as everything about this bike screams 1970s.
Photos: Harley-Davidson
>>Join the conversation about this Iron 1200 right here in the Harley-Davidson Forum!
Custom Looks
The AMF-style font is a throwback to Harleys of old, as are the small ape hangers, tear drop gas tank, and various other intentional design details. But the Iron 1200's simplicity does harbor a few issues that come to light when you actually ride it, which may prove to be detracting to some.
Photos: Harley-Davidson
>>Join the conversation about this Iron 1200 right here in the Harley-Davidson Forum!
Rough Rider
Namely, the ride quality can be a bit rough, particularly on less-than-perfect surfaces. The preload-adjustable twin rear shocks offer a mere 1.6 inches of travel, which can be a bit tough on the rear on rough roads.
Photos: Harley-Davidson
>>Join the conversation about this Iron 1200 right here in the Harley-Davidson Forum!
No Help
Likewise, the stock seat doesn't do a fantastic job of helping out in that department. Luckily, the Iron does ride quite nicely on smooth tarmac, but this is a consideration if you frequently ride around in construction zones.
Photos: Harley-Davidson
>>Join the conversation about this Iron 1200 right here in the Harley-Davidson Forum!
Harley Experience
Fortunately, that's really the only negative thing we can say about the Iron 1200. Otherwise, its air-cooled, 1202cc Evolution motor pumps out prodigious amounts of torque, and it's simply a blast to take out on short jaunts. For those seeking a signature Harley experience, it's most certainly there.
Photos: Harley-Davidson
>>Join the conversation about this Iron 1200 right here in the Harley-Davidson Forum!
Filling a Niche
The Iron 1200 is most definitely not a long hauler, but for those that just like to take a ride on the weekend or need something to handle a short commute, it's a fantastic choice at the right price. Plus, as is the case with every Harley, it's also a blank canvas for nearly endless customization.
Photos: Harley-Davidson
>>Join the conversation about this Iron 1200 right here in the Harley-Davidson Forum!
For help with service on your bike, check out the how to section of HDForums.com
