i'm a bigger guy and i'm wanting a HD bike. since i'm on a budget i'm wanting to get a Sportster. I really like the Nightster, 48, or Iron. Basically i've narrowed it down between the 48 or Iron. But i need to know how much difference they may have between the 1200cc 48 and the 883cc Iron.

i'm around 5'9" and 250lbs, i'll be working on losing some weight, but i'd like the know will i hate myself for getting the 883? i like the price much better.

thanks,

John

 

You wont really notice a difference just cruising around town, but if you are like me, and like to roll back the throttle a little here and again, the 1200 will put a smile on your face, the 883 will leave you wanting more. Thats the best way I can describe. I started off with an 883 and converted to a 1200.

 

i will be doing a lot of both highway and town driving....i have to commute everyday and plan on taking the bike.

should i opt for the 1200??

also, what is the consensus of big guys on sportsters anyway? do we look funny on them? anybody have some pics on their bike?

thanks,

John

 

Neither the 883 or the 1200 is going to have a problem on highways. For fitment, best advice is to go to the dealer and sit on one. I'm 5'10.

check this guy out

 

I went with a 1200 off the bat because I know I will upgrade the 883 to the 1200 as soon as I am able so I just cut out the middle step.

The 1200 is surprisingly snappy when you roll it on. The torque will surprise you and put a big smile on your face.

 

Remember just because you have the power available doesn't mean you have to use it. Is this going to be your first bike or first time riding? If so I'd strongly reccomend going through a MSF class. Heck even if you've ridden a while it would be good to go through it.

The gearing is a bit different on the 1200's so you run a lower rpm at cruising speed which means better MPG. I'd asked many of the same questions and got the 1200 over the 883 and it was the best decision I made. Plus the 1200's have better trade in/ resale value.

How much of a commute do you have? A lot of people hate windshields but I love it. On that bike it may not be the best looking so get a detachable one. I rode about a month and a half and then got the windshield. It took the pressure off my chest and made riding more fun. My mileage did suffer by about 7mpg but its worth it. I took it off last weekend to run about 100 miles. I missed it right away. All the pressure was back on my chest and when I bumped it to 85 ish to clear some traffic on the freeway I felt like I was being blown off the bike. It went right back on once I got home.

Good luck in your decision and ride safe.

MH

 

You will regret your decision if you get the 883. Also, it will be more difficult to get rid of later. Cut your calories to 1800-2000 per day, and start exercising. (Hoping telling you will help me do the same thing).

 

With that engine sticking out the left side and the rear fender... I think it may be a Dyna... That is one BIG dude

 

Get the 1200 and be done. The 883's are ok, but the 1200's have a nice kick top them and then when you do some mods they have a real nice kick.

 

Actually I thought it was a like a Heritage Soft Tail or the like.
That dude would make an Uber-Glide look like a pocket bike

Get the 1200. plus @ 5'9" you would probably prefer forward controls. Depends on your inseam and ability I guess