I like both bikes. I'm a slim 5'8" and personally went with the 1200C which fits me great though I intend to reduce the amount of chrome over time.

But as most others have said try
sitting onboth yourself. Preferably test ride them both if its possible then follow your heart.

I'm sure you wont be disapointed with either, just get ready for the big grin you're going to have each and every time you ride out.

 

Custom.

$.02

 

Everyone has different opinions based on what they like.

No one can decide what is best for you, that is a decision you have to make on your own.

If you haven't already done so, sit on each bike (and ride each if possible)to determine what feels best and would meet your needs.

I prefer a laid-back riding style, black and chrome engine, and find "mid controls" very uncomfortable since I've never had them on any Harley I've owned. Because of that the "C" model is the only Sportster I would even consider.

Others might have a completely opposite opinion.

 

I have had both mid controls (Honda CX 500C) and the forward controls XL1200C and have found that I very much prefer the forward controls on my sporty. In fact, I was looking for a forward controls kit to mod the CX as I found the mid controls to be uncomfortable on rides over 25 miles.

I'm 5'7 and find my custom to be a comfy ride. I ride about 16K miles a year.

 

jackofhearts: thanks for the compliments, I need to get an updated pic for my sig

jas, the forward controls are an easy install and you might be able to work out a deal with HD if you buy the bike

Ofcourse I prefer the vivid black, but the black and orange combo would be next on my list

 

I like my custom....I like the chrome, polishing sometimes can be theraputic...plus i like the ability to customize it better to my liking....with the nightster your a tad limited...

 

Hey buddy,

sit on a custom before you pull the trigger.

I rode a N and own a C now, if ya want your feet under yur azz, get something more sport tour oriented imho, like a kawaski zrx 1200

Harley is best feet first and chrome, resale is better also if you ever need to sell


enjoy the ride man!

 

Being bias to this I'd say go w/the nightster,i f that's your choice. If ya do,drop the extra cash and get a set of progressive shocks. Weather on longer hauls or town riders, the stock rear shocks hit very hard. Both are fine machines which ever you choose. I'm 6'2" and 190lbs and after paying the "Harley tax" mynightster is comfortable on the longer rides.My daily commute is about one hundred miles, that's' Alaska though, but no discomfort here . There is alsothe 'reach seat' geared for shorter riders, could help for either bike. Again , like the other posts' say , test ride those bikes, then think on it. I have ridden both, and went w/the nightster, the custom's sit a few inches taller???

 

Back to basics, COMFORT, COST, STYLE. I bought the 1200c

 

It was the nightster that brought me to buy a Harley, but I ended up with a custom.

I like the nightster, just didn't find them as comfortable. I am same height as you.

Wish I had more chrome to polish.