so i'm looking to buy my first sportster and i've come across quite a few&nbsp\\;that are conversion bikes.&nbsp\\; are they just as reliable as the factory 1200?&nbsp\\;are there things i should watch out for when looking at these bikes.&nbsp\\; it really doesn't matter too much if i get an 883 or 1200, i'd perfer a 1200 but will take either as long as the bike is in good shape.

 

&nbsp\\;The 1200 will last just along as an 883 as long as a good mechanic did the upgrade and used good top quality parts.

 

Mine runs better than my dad's 1200 did.

 

I agree it depends on the mechanic.&nbsp\\; If a authorized mechanic did it your probably ok.&nbsp\\;&nbsp\\; Check for paperwork.&nbsp\\; Ive heard they can run stronger than a stock 1200.&nbsp\\;&nbsp\\;&nbsp\\;

 

I just had this done on my 06 883l by a very reputable local indie. I've put about 1500 miles on since the conversion and it runs awesome. I've never ridden a stock 1200 so i can't compare, but it's a million times faster than it was as an 883 and have had zero issues so far.

rob

 

The conversion 883's will be faster&nbsp\\;than a stock 1200 due to the gear ratios.&nbsp\\; The reliability depends upon the mechanic and the product installed.&nbsp\\; Find out what is in there, and search it out on the forum for insight.

 

I had my 05 883 converted by Harley using Thunderstorm heads Screameing Eagle bolt in cams&nbsp\\;and have put 6900 miles on it ..mine taps a bit but Harley tells me it's normal due to the cams I used but it runs like hell and have NO problem with it.

 

I have purchased two used 883/1200 conversion bikes...make sure that your cylinders are 1200, (it will say 1200cc right on them) You do not want 883 jugs that were bored out unless you know who did the work! I had cylinders warp on the first bike...nothing but trouble. the second used 1200 cylinders and it runs GREAT! No problems to speak of. I agree with what everyone else said too. It is faster and more powerful than a stock 1200, and you can decide if you tell your insurance co. that it is a 1200, although the model will always be xl883 on the title? Good luck.