also the gas tanks are the same bolt pattern you can easylly leave the stock tank on and switch too the larger one anytime back and forth no biggie. same bolt pattern just have 2 petcocks.

 

K2rmx: First of all ..... what a great looking bike you have. Very nice! I was in the same delemma that you are in with my 2005 XL 1200 R. I love the look, but wanted that extra 1.2 gallons in the worst way. I also have a 2004 XL 883 C that has the 4.5 gallon tank. I am now in the process of having a new to me 4.5 gallon tank re-painted and will mount it on my 1200 R as soon as it is ready.

I am no expert on Sportsters, but I think that there was a bolt pattern change in the tank mounting with the 2004 model year. But, you have all sorts of aftermarket stretched tanks available. Check out eBay and do a search thru the American motorcycle parts for "Tanks", "Gas Tanks", "Painted Sets" and "Fuel Tanks". You will find a tank that will work. Your only problem then is matching that beautiful color combination that your bike has. ...... BC