Ok so I'm getting closer and closer to my goal of owning a Sportster.
I'm plannning on second hand (because i can't afford new and for a first bike 2nd hand seems to be the way to go).
Now it's probably going to come down to what is available at the time i intend to make my purchase.
But i'm on the fence between a 1200C or a N, look wise (stock) i like them both, I need forward controls so that puts the C as an advantage, but most 2nd N'sters seem to have them put on. Being able to ride 2 up is an advantage because i want to have that option there when needed (even though i have heard that 2 up isn't the most pleasant thing for the passenger on a Sportster), I see the 4.7Gl tank as a slight advantage on the C, but nothing to make a huge deciding factor.
The Customs (from looking on craigslist) seem a bit cheaper, i've seen a few 06 (stock) with around 5k miles for around $5500-$6000.
The Nightsters seems to be a little more expensive (around the $7000-8000 mark typically).
I am wanting something around the 5k miles mark, anyway enough of my rambling.
Could you guys list off what you consider some advantages and disadvantages of the two.

Cheers

 

well a cheaper alternative would be the 883custom or 883iron then ad a 1250 kit and your good to go with cheaper insurance rates as well.
i own a nightster so im biased im not into polishing my bike id rather wash-n-ride .if ya like the nightster the iron is even more blacked out.
biggest differenc is forward controls vs mids i switched mine to forwards its so much better
just a thought

 

I've checked insurance costs, and the 1200N or C are around $65 a month for me, i also checked an 883C and insurance was still $60.
i LOVE the look of the Iron, but i have not found ANY second hand ones (prob due to being a very recent model).
I can imagine how the custom would be a bitch to keep polished, although i've seen a couple of the roads over here and damn do they stand out.
i was quoted $10,300 for a new 883C by the local Harley Dealer, so i am def. wanting to go second hand.
I would only get an 883 if an second hand Iron came about, and then i would have the intention of a 1200 or 1250 conversion kit within the near future.
Thanks for the input colonelangus1

 

I'm on a 1200L, 4.5 gal tank, couldn't imagine having to stop for gas more often than I already do. JMO.

 

i know when its time to fill up ..my a$$ is getting sore and the legs need a stretch seems to be about the same time lol
i must be getting old

 

Both damn good bikes. I like chrome, but not too much of it. My last bike was over kill. I'm also partial to the wash and go mindset. I got a 2-up set up on my Nightster, and it's fine for weekend jaunts.

 

The Custom has all the advantages (more gas, forwards, 2-up), however you can't beat the classic look of the Nightster and the Peanut Tank.

I personally bought the 883L instead of a 883C because I liked the classic look. I then added forward controls and a second 2-up seat that can be easily swapped out. Gas fill-ups don't bother me. Like someone said...by the time I need gas I also need a rest (and a smoke).

 

I was in the same dilemma two weeks ago. Decided to go with the nightster because I knew that deep down I'd be disappointed not seeing it in my garage. Already got a two up seat for the girlfriend and she hasn't complained at all. Forward controls are on the way. Best advice I had was when the dealer told me to go with my gut feeling on what I really wanted. Good luck!

 

Here's my 2006 Custom

 

I like the Custom, personally. I like the Nightster too, just way too many of them around. Besides I like the look of the Gloss Black/Satin Black/Chrome combo I have.