Our 883 we have run it 75-85 on the interstate with no problems at all, i think it runs great.

 

Same here ... ride mine as high as 85, it likes to cruze at about 70.
From what I read the engine is designed for the upper RPM. Mine seems to be holding up
quite well.

 

I am from Mesquite, Texas. I have a 2011 Iron 883 with heavy breather. At 60 to 65 mph I get the best millage per gallon at highway speed. But not problem getting to 80 mph. At 80, I hope you have a faring on!

 

Sorry I have to chime in here again
I am from Mansfield Texas and I ride to the other side of Fort Worth for work about every day.
I would say average speeds of 70 with no faring and apes, really love the ride.
I have had bigger bikes and yes they are more comfortable on longer rides and at higher speeds but that just takes the fun out of riding. and trust me after a day at work it ain't no "cruse" home...That is probably when I ride the hardest!
No I would not take off and go to Alaska but I am wanting to ride to the ROT Rally in Austin this year

 

On my 883 if I am putting around I don't even shift into 5th until 55 or 60. If I am getting on it, then I am already doing 65-70 when shifting into 4th. It likes to cruise at 70-85 all day long. I will speed up to 90-95 every now and then, but don't hold it there.

I have a chart somewhere for the 883, can't find it right now. I think 3rd gear redline is 78 mph, so in 5th its not even close at 80-85.

 

Well I haven't had it long, but i'll put some more seat time in it. I'm only 5'5" and about 190 so I wouldn't think my weight would slow it down enough to complain about it. Maybe I'm just used to my glide just lugging along. Or I should ride this like my GSXR.... maybe a mix. lol

 

When I put a 1200 kit in my wife's 883 (10.5:1 comp) I also changed the engine sprocket from 34 teeth to 38. With the amount of torque that is now being generated it is a simple twist of the throttle and drop the clutch to take off. She smoked past me at 90 (in a 45 zone) with no problem, can cruise all day at 80. Big difference. The 1200 is stock with the 38.

 

I have a 1200 and ride without a fairing. 60-70 is my comfort zone, but on the interstate 85-90 are ok if the winds not against me. I've never run out of power. It actually feels smother and more responsive over 4k.

 

If you have a look over at the XL forum, in the 2004-2006 section, there's a great set of charts to figure the differences when changing primary and belt sprockets.

Keep in mind the further you gear for highway the less zippy it's going to feel in the city.

 

The 883 is most comfortable at 55 - 60 mph. But, it will cruise all day at 80. I've done 80 mph all day trips many times on the 883.