I'm 5'6 and just bought a 2007 1200XL C with forward controls,while at the dealer I sat on several 1200's with no forward controls,with forward controls and some aftermarket forward controls,and the Factory installed controls fit my size very good,I can hang my heels over the pegs and settle in for a long ride

 

my daughter is inheriting a 04 XL883C with forward. she ahs a 27" inseam I have lowered the bike 2.5' but she has trouble with the forward controls, i will probably try the extended reach seat but don't think it will be enough. She really does not want mid controls so i am still working on solutions. Good luck

 

Did you add pics ? don't see any but would like to

 

 

The "forwards" on a Sportster are a joke. They only sit 4.5" from the mid mounts which only help when putting your feet down. This is the reason I got the 48 because my ankles were scraping on the mid mounts on the Irons. But I also picked up a Wide Glide and surprisingly can reach those just fine too. They sit 12" forward from the mid mounts! I'm 5'9" and easily and comfortably ride the WG. I wouldn't stress getting the 1200C at all!

 

I have forwards on my 883 with highway pegs.I am 5 foot 8. I find them comfortable but I find I need the highway pegs in conjunction with the forward. The highway pegs are mounted on the crash bar.

 

I'm 5'2" and lowered both my Sporty and my Dyna. Can flatfoot both and have no problem with both