Hey guys,

I'm planning on getting my first HD next month. Just sold my street bike ('06 GSXR 750) and ready to move into something new.

I've been looking at Sportsters since they're more in my price range (2004 or newer). I'm looking at the newer just because of the rubber motor mounts.

My question is should I get a 883 then spend some money to convert it to a 1200 (or even a 1250) or will I end up paying the same if I got a 1200?

What are the pros and cons when it comes to an 883 converted to a 1200 vs a stock 1200?

Also, is NRHS kits the best route to go?

 

There is a huge price difference here, for used 883 vs 1200.

How's this sound? Buy the newest 883 you can afford. 1250 next winter.

You need to research the costs in your area, used Sportys & labor (unless self installed).

 

Hands down - get a 1200...price isn't that big of a gap & cheaper than converting 883. Saw quite a few 04+ Sporty's here locally (CraigsList) going anywhere from $4500 - $9000...depending on yoear, mileage & parts. Good luck w/the search.

 

1250 conversion is anywhere from $700-$2500 or more if you want. You don't get much of that back on resale.

That bring said, I would get the 883. The conversion project is dang fun.

 

I'd go 883 and do the nrhs 1250 they are quicker accelerating than a stock 1200 due to different primary and secondary gearing. Not to mention you can increase the compression and utilize better cam selection than stock 1200. Don't forget though when time to re-sell it the bike is still an 883 with mods and that will hurt value vs. a 1200, but make it easier to sell. Oh ya and I prefer solid mounts there's not much difference in vibration imo.

 

Buy the bigger one now. Save the expense and headache trying to mod it later. Spend your time riding it,not waiting for parts and someone to install em

 

I've seen some '04 883 go for as low as $4k. '10 883 go for $7k

'05 1200 for $5,500 an '09 for $7k

I have about $6k+ so I have some options here. As for now I'm leaning towards the 883 and doing the conversion kit because of the quicker acceleration. Not to mention the cheaper insurance I'm not too concern on the resale not being there.

Tho if I do find a good deal on a 1200 I could go that route as well. Oh the options.........


@ian03xl - I've only test ridden the Harley's at the HD dealerships. Most of them being new, so I haven't had a chance to test drice an older Sportster without the motor mounts. Why do you prefer the solid mounts?

 

I'd go for an 883 if I was you. At my shop (all pre-owned) I have an 06 xl883 for $4,400 with only 5100 miles on it. I've also got an 11' xl883 for $6950 with 11 miles on it.

You can always ad the kit later.You are already going to feel like a snail on the stock 1200 after coming off a 06 750 gixxer.

There are some deals out there on used 883's just shop around.

 

Rubber mounted, yes. I got a good deal on an '00 883, and like the bike, but it has a tiresome vibration much above 60, and the Honda V45 I had previously (still have) will run circles around it. Also, handling will feel like switching from a corvette to a pickup truck, compared to what you've been riding. I like pickup trucks, so not a problem for me... Anyway, I regret not spending more bucks and get a rubber mounted 1200 to start with. Most people I've known that tried a Harley liked them, but if you haven't ridden one yet, probably should try to get a little time on one before committing to it. My old Honda is faster, smoother, better handling, but I like the Sportster better; just can't give a logical reason why.

 

My opinion buy the 1200 now in Arizona where I am The stealer wants 3000 to do the 1200 and indies are only like a grand less but you will have to buy the kit you will need a Screaming eagle race tuner or a power commander ( or something eual) than to get it running perfect youll need tyno time to tune it where it needs to be it all adds up just buy the 1200 check out the nightster it so sweet and i wish i would have bought it