Take a riders course, get your license and test ride. You stated that you are a speed freak, perhaps look at the New yamaha inline 3 cylinder- they get rave reviews and are very reasonably priced. I am 5'11", 215lbs, 51 and have been riding since 16, currently on my 3rd sportster, a 2016 Roadster and love it. Yes I had to make some changes in seat and bars to fit me better, did the same on the two dynas I owned and the import bikes before I switched over to the dark side. Bigger Harleys aren't harder to ride really, but less fun to ride for me. A 1200 sportster will be quicker than most big twins with the power to weight ratio and more nimble. I loved the slim till I rode it, drags parts In a heartbeat. If really love the 883 look, yes you can get a 1275cc, high compression kit get your self a sporty with 85+ torque and 100+ horsepower. Perhaps check out the Roadster and Custom 1200 models. If you really are after speed though you are shopping at the wrong brand.

 

Page 27 of my 2016 Sporster Models owners manual . Running weight of the XL883N 562 lbs.

 

That's a LOT less than 700 pounds. OP, there's some good information to be had here and then there's some people that are flat full of sh*t. You have to be able to figure out which is which. You'll be miles ahead if you have or had a bat sh*t crazy uncle that proclaims things like they're gospel only to find out they're wrong; time after time.

 

Ok, little update. Took my buddies 13 Slim for a putz around the block and that was too much bike. Too heavy for me right now, and a pile of power. Although it didnt handle nice once a guy grabbed 2nd, but just doing 15-20 MPH around you could feel the weight of it. So I know that I think I will be looking into a smaller bike such as the 883 for now, something lighter and easier to handle. I felt like the bike handled me, not me handling the bike. Thanks for all the help fellas, I sure appreciate it.

 

the 883 is not the easiest to do slow moves on. it's top heavy. plus a full tank of fuel. not that you can't do it,
but just be aware. my first bike was a 883 iron and i still ride it. love that bike. doubt i'll ever sell it.