I'm 6'1 and 240.

I sat on a 72 and honestly it was very uncomfortable. Maybe it was the seat. Any other big guys on a sportster?

Plan to rent one. That would be ultimate test.

Thanks.

 

I am not as tall (5'10") but I am about 235. The 72 is going to have different ergonomics than my bike due to the forward controls and higher bars, it's hard to compare. I would think the 72 might better suit a taller person. What was uncomfortable? The seat? The angles?

Sportsters are pretty small bikes. I always forget how small until I see them with a person on. Maybe try a Dyna or Softail.

 

I can't imagine riding a Sportster being much bigger than I am - 155lb, 5'6". I feel like I pretty much fill up the bike, and riding 2-up feels like max capacity with my 120lb wife, although it's actually a perfect fit for our sizes.

I dunno. I'd say at your size to look at some of the bigger bikes. If it's a price issue look at used stuff.

 

This topic has been discussed a ton...just do a search

https://www.hdforums.com/forum/sport...nd-weight.html

https://www.hdforums.com/forum/sport...er-riders.html

 

The 72 is all the seat very uncomfortable, 6'3" and 250 here forwards and 16" apes

 

I agree with Knucks. One of the guys in my club tried the 72 but found it uncomfortable, so he got a 1200 custom and put 14" (i believe) apes on it.

 

If you think you are too big, not much is ever going to convince you otherwise. There are many different options for taller guys to make the bike fit correctly, but most guys trade up to a big twin, and proceed to dwarf that one too. Harley does not build a bike that is long legged, long armed riders from the factory (we are the minority), so regardless which model you end up purchasing- expect to spend some coin to make it work for you. The best thing to do is rent one (like you plan on doing) and see how you like it, what you can change, etc. I am 6' 8" with a 37" inseam, and ride a sportster with mid controls, and find it very comfortable. Ride then decide.

 

Yes mostly it was the seat. Had to plant my rear all the way back. Not very comfortable. That's why they make aftermarket seats I suppose.

 

A big word of advice; Get the bike that you want from the git go.
Don't settle for anything less.
You'll be much happier in the long run.

 

You said exactly what I was thinking, the wife is also 120 and it sometimes feels like it is on the edge. I wouldn't have my bike if I was a bit heavier/bigger.