So yes I’ve asked a similar question to this exact one, and yes I have got quiet a few words of advise from many members from these groups. But after speaking with my insurance agent this past week I found out the Softail Standard is going to be almost $50 a month extra to insure (I have to have sr22 until 2023) and also the monthly payments would be a bit more than a slightly used Iron 1200.

Will a guy my size 6’ 2” 215 lbs be happy on an Iron 1200? Plan on throwing on a saddlemen step up and possibly forwards. I do plan on the occasional 400 + trips, but no 2 up, and honestly may stick to back country highways to get a new perspective on what makes this country truly great!

Is this a solid/realistic plan for my first bike or am I in lala land over this harley fever I’ve seemed to have caught?

Also on a side note I literally have a decent list of all I’d like to do to an Iron over time, just stage 1, lights, sissy bar, and swing arm.

 

Here insurance charges are based on experience as well as other things. With no experience no discount. The law here also doesn't allow a novice rider to get any bike from the outset.

The bike should work for you. I know a couple of guys your size and they love their Sportsters.

 

Tommy, if you are serious about 400mi trips, which I think is a great thing to do, I would not pick a Sportster. It can be done, but compared to other bikes out there, it's way down on my list. I have done 400 trips, but never on a Sporty. NFW. But there are plenty of bikes that can make it a breeze, and still not be some huge monster. My first choice would be a BMW RnineT, followed by a Triumph T100 or T120.

 

If your budget is tight, consider a used Sportster. Quite likely it will have Stage 1 and some comfort improvements from previous owner.

 

Chances are you will be happy, new bike happiness, but will be looking in a year or two to upgrade. Save yourself the hassle and get something bigger. But hey, it’s your money