I am looking at a 2014 xl1200cc Sportster. I am 6 ft 320 lbs. i haven’t ridden seriously in about 15 years but getting back into it. I don’t care what people think, I am looking for comfort and maneuverability. My question is is this a good bike for someone like me or can someone with experience recommend a bike that would fit me? I have always wanted a Harley and can finally get one. I am planning on riding locally. Maybe top speed around 70mph.
thanks I. Advance.

 

I think you would probably fit better on a bigger model. Have you looked at the FX series? I'm only 5'8" and a buck sixty, so you're twice my size. I think a Sportster would look like a toy under someone your size. It can be done, but you'd probably be more comfortable on a larger bike. Especially if you ever ride with passenger.

John

 

There's all kind of options out there but the Sportster has always been the cheapest way in. Naturally you'd fit better on a Dresser and I don't think I'd roll with an 883. 1200 would be the minimum.

 

Welcome to the forum,

I agree with the above posts, you will find a Sportster physically too small for your height and weight, the Sportster is fine for riders up to 5' 10", but taller riders will find it a bit cramped. A far better option would be something like a Twin Cam Dyna Street Bob, the Dyna models have a larger frame than the Sportster so they can easily accommodate larger riders.

 

I know a guy who is at least 6' tall and used to ride a Roadster. Not as heavy as you though.

Go sit on one and try it out for size. If you go to a dealer you can try all the other bikes as well.

 

Welcome!

I'm a bit smaller than you are (6-2 and 230 lbs) and can assure you that the Sportster won't meet your "comfort" goal without spending a boatload of money on seating and suspension. It's really not even all that maneuverable, but is fun to ride once you have spent the money for the upgrades. I'm inclined to agree with those who have posted above that you'd be happier on something other than a Sportster.

IMHO, since you're just starting out "seriously" again, I'd strongly recommend taking the Motorcycle Safety Course before you even think about what bike to get. You'd be amazed at how much you forgot (I know I was) and you really need the refresher. Once you've done that, go to your local Demo Days and ride everything they have there. Once you find something that suits your fancy, go for it.

 

I’m 6 ft tall 200 pounds sportster is tight it’s good for an hours ride or riding around town but anything more than that is ruff

 

I can ride for a good 2 1/2 hrs with the way my extended floor boards are.5'10 245lbs..i am stretched out and comfy.

 

pic for reference.

 

Ride whatever the hell you want to ride and what feels right 4U A guy his size wouldn't fit on a CBR or a R1 either which is basically what a Sportster is. The HD version of a sportbike. I didn't say it cleanly fits the mold of a sportbike but its what the Sportster was originally designed to be. Just because he's a big guy doesn't mean he has to ride a big, heavy, poor handling/braking BT that an 883 would run circles around. Just like a 155lb little guy doesn't have to ride a Sportster and might feel at home on a CVO.