Which Harley to get- female new rider
#1
07-26-2013 | 05:13 PM
Which Harley to get- female new rider
Hey guys! I am hoping that you can give me some advice. I love motorcycles and want to get my own bike. I am familiar with driving manual cars, so I'm hoping that will help. I like fast cars and I like riding on Harleys, I think it's time to get my own already.
I am considering getting either a new 883 Sportster or a used 1200. I don't know if the 1200 will be too much, or if I will regret not having it if I buy the 883. I was also wondering if dealers ever discount off of MSRP when you are buying a new bike.
My other concern is whether I have to get a bike that is already lowered. I am 5'5'', 120 lb, and want to be able to handle the bike.
Thanks!
-JEN
I am considering getting either a new 883 Sportster or a used 1200. I don't know if the 1200 will be too much, or if I will regret not having it if I buy the 883. I was also wondering if dealers ever discount off of MSRP when you are buying a new bike.
My other concern is whether I have to get a bike that is already lowered. I am 5'5'', 120 lb, and want to be able to handle the bike.
Thanks!
-JEN
Last edited by jmalmsteen; 07-26-2013 at 05:37 PM.
#2
07-26-2013 | 05:18 PM
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 24,948
Likes: 2,251
From: Eastern NE
Cars & motorcycles are two different animals...have you even been behind the bars of a m/c? I know everyone has to start somewhere, but you might want to consider w/MSF course and go from there. Good luck!
#4
07-26-2013 | 05:27 PM
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 5,454
Likes: 2,858
From: SW FL-Jersey Shore Emigre
Don't go for an 883, you'll not notice the difference, and you'll have a bike with lower resale value!! My S.O. had a 1200C Sportster, did well, but Superstorm Sandy drowned it-now she has a Hyosung to play with. My advice is that if you REALLY intend to (no sh!te) ride, get a dyna or softail and do it! Sportsters are great, had one, and want another, but they're not really a "girls" bikes, but don't let anyone fool you, WHATEVER, you CAN do it!!
#5
07-26-2013 | 05:28 PM
I can't afford more than a Sportster right now. I will be taking the class.
Sorry to hear about Sandy and the bike. We are on LI and got hit too, not as bad as others.
Sorry to hear about Sandy and the bike. We are on LI and got hit too, not as bad as others.
Last edited by jmalmsteen; 07-26-2013 at 05:33 PM.
#7
07-26-2013 | 05:34 PM
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#8
07-26-2013 | 05:34 PM
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Dec 2010
Posts: 4,501
Likes: 25
From: Sheboygan,Wi
My wife rides an 08 883 Low. It's her first bike and she's put well over 12,000 miles on it in less then two years. With a few upgrades she loves it and won't let me upgrade her to another bike. Not every body needs a bigger bike.
#10
07-26-2013 | 05:38 PM
Advanced
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 73
Likes: 1
From: Massachusetts
I am a Rider Coach, and I always ask my students if they have driven a stick-shift car. The reason is that people who have done it are familiar with the "friction point" on a clutch. It is a very important concept on a motorcycle, and if the student is already familiar with it, the skill transfers to the hands more readily. When you take your BRC, you will see how much emphasis is placed on clutch control.
That said...My wife is a new rider, and I got her a 883 Sportster for a first bike. She is enjoying it and riding well. It is a step up from the 250cc bikes she trained on, but has all the power she will ever need. It was well used, but it is a keeper. Learn to ride, then decide what will be right for YOU. Ride what makes you happy. Best of luck.
That said...My wife is a new rider, and I got her a 883 Sportster for a first bike. She is enjoying it and riding well. It is a step up from the 250cc bikes she trained on, but has all the power she will ever need. It was well used, but it is a keeper. Learn to ride, then decide what will be right for YOU. Ride what makes you happy. Best of luck.