New Rider - Need advice on Sportster model
#1
New Rider - Need advice on Sportster model
I'm purchasing a Harley as my first motorcycle. I'm male, age 47, 200 lbs and plan to ride most trips of 60 miles or less with a few longer trips each year. I live in an area that is mostly rural and provides great opportunities for riding. The Sportster seems to be the obvious choice, and at this point I'm leaning toward a 2005 or later 1200 because of the fuel injection and rubber mounted engine. I'd love feedback on...
- Which model 1200, or would I be better off w/an 883 and then upgrade the engine when I'm more experienced?
- New vs. Used? With the market somewhat soft, I'm leaning toward used.
- How much could I expect a dealer reduce price on a new bike?
- If used, what do I need to look out for when buying? Should I have a dealer do a pre-purchase inspection?
- Which accessories should I consider when I purchase? I would expect to upgrade to another bike in a few years as I gain more experience.
- What should I expect to pay? Prices seem to be all over the place. Mostly due to accessories, I'm guessing.
I appreciate any feedback the group can provide. Thanks for your help...
Bill Harvey
State College, PA
- Which model 1200, or would I be better off w/an 883 and then upgrade the engine when I'm more experienced?
- New vs. Used? With the market somewhat soft, I'm leaning toward used.
- How much could I expect a dealer reduce price on a new bike?
- If used, what do I need to look out for when buying? Should I have a dealer do a pre-purchase inspection?
- Which accessories should I consider when I purchase? I would expect to upgrade to another bike in a few years as I gain more experience.
- What should I expect to pay? Prices seem to be all over the place. Mostly due to accessories, I'm guessing.
I appreciate any feedback the group can provide. Thanks for your help...
Bill Harvey
State College, PA
#4
#6
RE: New Rider - Need advice on Sportster model
Well I bought new so I knew what happened every mile that was on the bike and I wanted the warranty after coming off a lemon new bike purchase. I went with an 883 sporty and it runs fine with myself or 2 up. 04 and up rubber mounts are supposedly more comfy and I liked the idea of fuel injection on my 07'. No matter what you pick, you will enjoy it.
#7
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#8
RE: New Rider - Need advice on Sportster model
ORIGINAL: pscheval
take a driving class first
take a driving class first
Can't ride bike. Crash motorcycle.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZlAPD67jfQ
#9
RE: New Rider - Need advice on Sportster model
I started riding 3 weeks ago, fresh out of the riders course. Everyone I knew told me to start out on something small, like a 250... and at the VERY MOST an 883. Three weeks later, I've got my '08XL1200N and I'm buzzing around town no problem. I'm not saying I don't get a tiny bit wobbley every once in a while on a take off, but I don't think the bike is too powerful at all. I really have no idea what people are talking about, I'm perfectly comfortable with my 1200 CC's - not intimidated or overwhelmed at all. I'm glad I didn't waste money on anything smaller.
#10
RE: New Rider - Need advice on Sportster model
ORIGINAL: debbiesnacks
I started riding 3 weeks ago, fresh out of the riders course. Everyone I knew told me to start out on something small, like a 250... and at the VERY MOST an 883. Three weeks later, I've got my '08 XL1200N and I'm buzzing around town no problem. I'm not saying I don't get a tiny bit wobbley every once in a while on a take off, but I don't think the bike is too powerful at all. I really have no idea what people are talking about, I'm perfectly comfortable with my 1200 CC's - not intimidated or overwhelmed at all. I'm glad I didn't waste money on anything smaller.
I started riding 3 weeks ago, fresh out of the riders course. Everyone I knew told me to start out on something small, like a 250... and at the VERY MOST an 883. Three weeks later, I've got my '08 XL1200N and I'm buzzing around town no problem. I'm not saying I don't get a tiny bit wobbley every once in a while on a take off, but I don't think the bike is too powerful at all. I really have no idea what people are talking about, I'm perfectly comfortable with my 1200 CC's - not intimidated or overwhelmed at all. I'm glad I didn't waste money on anything smaller.