Hello everyone, I wanted to know a few things about Sportsters. Right now im using a friends Sportster 883. Would like to buy a used one. First I would like to get a 1200 Sportster, would like to use it for road trips, how would this bike be for that? Also was looking online and I didnt know they had that many models for the Sportster, XL1200, Coustom 1200, XLH1200, Sportster Low. Also what is a 1200cc,OHV V Evolution V-Twin Engine? I have seen this too?
I was looking at a 2004 Sportster 1200 with 24k miles on it is that alot?
Thanks ~Gage~

 

My wife just bought a 2003 Sporty 1200c with 6,000 miles on it. Paid 5250. Real clean bike. Kinda of a rough ride compared to my Fat Bob but for around town it would be ok.

 

Depends on how handy you are.

I bought my 1200c for $3k just for the purpose of being a 2-up travel bike. In stock form I personally do not think it really is that good for the job of touring but I have been and continue to change bits to my liking. Aftermarket seat, air filter, grips, mid controls and highway pegs instead of forwards,rubber pegs instead of those gay *** chrome ones, wind screen, shocks etc etc. When I am done with it will be a pretty good over the road bike yet still be lighter and more agile than a dyna. The joy of these machines is you can make them what you want them to be, all it takes is a bit of wrenching.

 

Stick with 04+ the engine is rubber mounted. EFI came in 2007. If you want it for longer trips be prepared to upgrade the seat and suspension, or look for one that already has it done.

 

Any 1200 is fine for touring. Everything depends on what you like the motorcycle to look like, chromed out, blacked out etc. the sportster is the perfect base to go in any direction. Best of luck.

 

Good luck in your search.
I was able to find a 2008 Sportster 1200 low a week ago with 600 miles for $5500. Find of the year for me. It sits low enough that my 5'3" wife can flat foot it with her normal riding boots on.

 

Sweet deal!

 

2nd that, a bit of bread don't hurt.

 

We all have a different idea of touring. I use my Glide for the serious ones with Mrs B and loaded up to the hilt, but my Sporty would be fine for a solo trip. There are several good threads here on the theme of Sporties for touring and as a small bagger.

 

Thanks for all the help guys, ya I am still looking, what brand of insurance do you all use for a Harley. For my truck I have State Farm, I dont know if I should use them or some other company.
~Gage~