I like the looks of the 883 Iron but prefer the 1200cc motor in the 48 or Nightster. If you wanted to go Bobber style in the end after some customization which do you think will be the best platform to start with? Is the Iron 883 much slower than the 48 or Nightster or does the 1200 really make a big difference?

 

If you're going to cut it up anyways and go for the minimalist bike I would start off with the cheaper one.

 

I started off with the Iron883. Ultimately I wanted the look knowing that I could always get the power. The 1250 kit is not that far out there price wise and gets you a little more power then the 1200 does. I would go 883.

 

you can always do a 1250 conversion if you find 883 is not enough for you. I'm planning on doing that. Cost like 700 from NRHS. http://www.nrhsperformance.com/ekitsportster04.shtml

Figure its cheaper this way also.

 

Get the 48, why plan to spend big bucks later and not have the bike to ride while you're doing it.

 

My vote is to go with the 883. Save the $2k. The 1250 kit is $700. Bingo now you have a 1250 with $1300 left to spare.

 

$700 to buy, then double that to install. Plus you're out another $200 for forward controls. Buy what you like, but don't be the guy who two weeks after buying realises the 883 has no power.

 

I am liking the 48 more and more since really the only thing I do not like is the real small tank after more research. Does anyone make a larger tank for the 48 in the peanut shape? I also like the 1200 in the 48 since I feel the 883 will soon be too slow especially being used to the power of the Jap sports bikes. Granted they are not even remotely the same type bikes but still power is power

 

The 883 has plenty of power, and the NHRS kit will turn it into a little hot rod. Not that you're gonna need that much power if you just plan to cut it up and go bar hopping.

 

Go big and get the 88ci upgrade....

What do you like about the look about the Iron? The flat black paint?