Hello all. My brother-in-law just bought a new StreetBob and I am letting him keep it in my garage. Long story short, I am getting back into bikes after not having one for a long time. I just wanted everyones opinion on what I should start off with. I like the looks of the Superglide, but I also like the 883C sportster. I don't have a problem riding a "bigger" bike, like the StreetBob, so this is not a factor. Any advise / opinions will be appreciated.
By the way, I am 6 foot and 195 lbs.

 

That's a damn good question. Usually it's more like "Sportster or Fatboy?" The SG is the big twin that is closest to the Sportster 1200 in 0-70 quickness, but has the top end that the Sporty doesn't.

Aside from the obvious size differences....do you like chrome/bling? The 883C will have more of it than an SG. Also the riding position is a little different, slightly more forward-leaning on the Sporty and forward controls, but the SG will have mid-mounted pegs. There is also a 6th gear on the SG, which is nice for long days on the slab.

I'm close to your size (6'1" 190 lbs) and ride a 1200C. I love it. If I were riding across America two or three times a summer, I'd find it not quite right and would look for something that would stretch me out a little more, offer a bit more space for bags, etc. But for weekend trips, in-town riding, Sunday afternoon in the canyons, it's perfect for me.

I don't think you'd outgrow a SG anytime soon, but an 883....... Split the difference, try a 1200. Demo all of 'em.

 

Go to the dealership, check them out, test ride them. It's really a decision you have to make yourself. I bought both my Harley's after going to the International Motorcycle show and checking out all the Harleys.

 

Both are nice. I would love to have a sporty, but I would look like a buffalo on a mini bike on one. (Large fellow here) Like the previous poster said the big twin with the 6 screws might be the answer if you plan on any time cross country, although many ride sporters coast to coast. Demo them both, then enjoy.

FD

 

Thanks for the input guys! I will definately look at the 1200 also.

 

Superglide, I don't even see that as a choice but I guess there are more sportster fans than I thought.

 

My choice would be the Superglide.

 

Either is fine in town, but SuperGlide is much more versatile. You can tour cross country on it without getting beaten to death after a couple of hundred miles.

 

SG l.ray

 

One more thing to add...

Many look at the SuperGlide as a "blank canvas." You can chrome it up, paint it up, and mod it to your heart's desire. A lot of guys who know 100% that they will do some custom paint start with these. Your getting a blank, plain-jane, no-nonsense big twin Harley. That's what makes it the lightest and fastest big twin. And making it your very own and unique bike is part of the fun.

The 883C comes sort of chromed up already, and the 1200C with even more. The 1200C has the most bling for your Harley buck. Most people pick out their 883C/1200C because they like the appearance as is. For a little more than a SuperGlide, you can get more chrome on the SuperGlide Custom, and lots more on the Low Rider.

With both you can do the performance mods for as much as you want to sink into it.

Whatever you decide, be honest about the kind of riding you will do and what you realistically hope to do. Adn consider if this will be your one and only bike or if you have others or will add others.