I have a1996 1200 sportster and I was wondering what is the best carb for this bike?

 

Nothing wrong with the stock CV carb if it is tuned and functioning properly. Everyone has an opinion on what is "best". What are you trying to do? Do you feel you need a new carb?

 

S&S and Mikuni flatslides are great if all you want to do is drag race. The best carb for riding is definitely the stock CV that came on it. You don't have to worry about changing jets or anything when you ride across country with the CV like you do with the S&S. You'll also get better fuel economy with the CV.

 

I put a Screaming Eagle air cleaner on a 99 sporty hugger, but had to change the jet and reset the air screw. If you pull the carb, there won't be a screw there, you have to drill a hole to get to it. I found this on a blog a very long time ago, but could get you the info if you need it. I have a bunch of other carbs. but, this really helped the bike. Made my wife very happy.

 

http://www.harley-performance.com/index.html

Idk if that is where you read it but it talks about what you mentioned and more Waldhorn

 

I have the same bike....NRHS Hurricane Air Filter....45/180 jets....one shim under the stock needle....mixture screw out 2 3/4 turns......runs great hot or cold and gets good mpg's. I wouldn't change it.

 

Thanks so much guys!!....I don't know if I need one or not. In between gears it sputters. I didn't know if that was the carb characteristic or not.

 

I had a 96 1200 custom. After getting sick of the stock CV coughing I installed a Super E with a Thunderjet and with a little tuning I was amazed at how smooth it pulled and the amount of power I felt. Not everyone's cup of tea but I had great luck with that carb.

 

It might be. Best to check and clean a few things first, like the gas tap, to clear away any junk in the tank, also the float chamber of the carb. Clean the jets to make sure it is running right.

Have you changed anything? Do you remember a time when it did not sputter?

 

CV40 is a great carb
Mikuni HSR42 works very nice as well