Im new to the Harley world. What is the Major difference between a 883 and 1200?
I know around 300cc's, but is there a major performance or handling difference? Every dealer I visited swayed to favor whatever bike they thought I can afford. I bought a 1200(well paying on) They made seem the same? Im new so I figured bigger is better???

 

Better power and torque, unless you bought a 1200 c the bikes are pretty much the same setup as to handling as a 883.

 

same weight wise, the 1200 has slightly higher gear ratios since it has more torque than the 883. Hwy RPMs will be slightly lower than the 883 too.

 

The 1200s weigh three pounds less than the 883s, and make more power and torque. Other than that, they are identical.

 

I think in the end you will be happier with the 1200. Same bike, just different higher output motor.

 

Depending what year it is ? fuel tank size, ignition, heads and primary gear ratio

 

I went with the XL883C. It came with the 4.5 gallon tank, quick release windshield, padded backrest and luggage rack so it's set up perfectly for me. The 883 has PLENTY of torque to haul my carcass all over this nation.

I just could not see sending almost $3000 for an extra 7 HP plus slightly higher insurance premiums and slightly less fuel economy.

As far as I am concerned, the XL883C is the most perfect motorcycle ever to come out of a factory.

 

Theres a little more than a 7hp difference there ,

 

Consider the reasons why you want one. You don't buy the 883 for the power, you buy it because that is what you want and what you can see potential in building exactly what you want. If you main concern is power, then the 883 is not going to make you happy.

I went from a Yamaha Vstar 1300 to the Iron and probably lost close to half the horsepower. The VStar would outrun every HD I ever ran up against (except the V-Rod) but the bike had no soul, if you know what I mean. The Iron is rougher, louder and slower than the VStar, but I like it much, much more.

There are plenty of ways to squeeze out some horses in the little 883 if you just can't stand it later. On the other hand, the 1200 will be a little better highway cruiser because it is geared a bit taller.

 

Your answer is easily answered in two simple steps.
#1- search for "883 to 1200"
#2- search for "1200 to 883"
Did you even find one person who wanted to go from 1200 to 883?