Is the 1200 worth 2,000 more dollars? Is there a big power difference? They are identical, so which do you recommend?

 

You're in for a bunch of replies that start with "It depends...". Its really what feels right for you.

I haven't ridden an 883 but own two 1200's. One for the wife and one for me. I also bought a big twin. I like them all but the Sportsters are stupid, scarey fast (Stage I) versus my big twin (pretty much stock). The moral of the story is displacement is not necessarily equal to more power. Don't discount the 883 just because its "smaller". An 883 is plenty of bike. At the same time, the 1200 isn't necessarily a bad buy just because its more expensive.

If you can ride both, do so. That's the only way you will know for sure. Only you can really say if a 1200 is worth the extra $2K.

 

First off... they are not identical...

I forget the exact numbers, but the 883 has about 47-49 hp... the 1200 at about 70 hp....

The 1200 has different heads, cams, more compression different pistons and the like...

Visually they are different...

If you're trying to justify 2000 dollars then I don't know what to tell you...

Harley's reputation was built on the 1200 platform... is about all I can say...

Charlie D.

 

Straight up yes. There are alot of differences most of them make more power, others make the look. I personaly like the BIGGER fuel tank on my 1200C. HD motorcycle - $10K, chrome and such for said HD motorcycle - $8K, going further without having to stop for fuel - Priceless.

 

The bigger 4.5 gas tank comes on the 883C also, just to be clear.

 

On the surface the 883C and 1200C look pretty identical. However, there is alot more chrome on the 1200 than the 883. Cases, etc are polished on the 883 and chrome plated on the 1200. The one reply I've often made is I've heard a number of 883 owners say they wished they had purchased the 1200 but I never heard a 1200 owner say they wished they had bought an 883.

When you think of the difference in cost to you, also factor in the additional profit to you when the day comes you sell a 1200 vs. and 883.

 

Me, I wouldn't buy a 1200. I'd by the 883 and sink the extra money into a 1250 motor w/ Stage II heads. You'd have a screaming sleeper bike.
I'm on my second 883, and if I were to buy another bike, it'd also be an 883. The only thing I'd debate was 'R' or 'C'

 

Budget and size are your issues here. If you can afford it, or are a larger person that may want to ride 2 up then the 1200 is the definate choice. If you want a Harley and have limited funds you can get a newer 883 or an older 1200 for similar money. If you think your going to wish you bought a 1200 after buying a 883 then go for the 1200. If you just want a bike, the 883 is fine.

 

Big Twins in a Dyna or a Softy without all the bags and such have the same power to weight and performance with the same mods.

I'd go with the 1200. Rather have good performance with the factory warantee and it's implied reliability intact....

You'll make up for (almost) what you spend on the 1200 on the other end of the transaction.

 

QUOTE whaap: The one reply I've often made is I've heard a number of 883 owners say they wished they had purchased the 1200 but I never heard a 1200 owner say they wished they had bought an 883.
Very good point.



QUOTE XLOCD: I'd by the 883 and sink the extra money into a 1250 motor w/ Stage II heads. You'd have a screaming sleeper bike.
Another very good point. Sidebar comment/question: If you go this route, do you shave off those 4 extra pounds??



QUOTE nine11c2: I'd go with the 1200. Rather have good performance with the factory waranty and it's implied reliability intact.... You'll make up for (almost) what you spend on the 1200 on the other end of the transaction.
Good counter point to the 883-1250 build. For those wanting to just get on and ride with the comfort of knowing the warranty is there, the 1200 is a good buy.


QUOTE nine11c2: Big Twins in a Dyna or a Softy without all the bags and such have the same power to weight and performance with the same mods.
Really good to know. My FX Softy feels like a slug compared to my Sporty. Can't wait to get my AC, Exhaust and Tuner on the FX.



Here's one I just thought of... The 883 cases are the silver PC. 1200's come in black PC. I prefer the look of the black over silver and its a little easier for me to keep clean. I used to have issues keeping the silver from spotting over time.