I purchased a 2010 Sportster 1200 Low because I loved the feel of the bike, now that I've been riding it for about 3 months I'm realizing how stiff the ride really is as well as my legs get tired from being bent up. Is it just the seat being thin that makes the bike 'low' or is there something done to the suspension to make the bike 'low'? Also, what are some ideas or parts anyone else has used to make the ride smoother and not feel like it's bottoming out continuously?

Many thanks,
David Kelm

 

The Low has shorter shocks (11.5" IIRC) and a thinner seat, for a lower seat height. Swap the shocks for something longer, or even better a set of air shocks off one of the bigger bikes, and a Mustang touring seat.

 

Thank you, I've heard the mustang seats are good as well as the sun downer seat I believe. Which air shocks or length do you recommend or prefer would be a good match?

 

The 13" Roadking shocks can be had cheaply on eBay.

Here is a set from a member here asking $100 https://www.hdforums.com/forum/sport...ail-light.html

Here is a thread on part numbers and lengths of HD air shocks that fit late model sportsters
https://www.hdforums.com/forum/sport...nd-length.html

 

Also, in the 1200 Low's front forks, the damper rods are shorter.

 

I have a set of clean 13 inch shocks along with almost new DK 1 1/2" lowering kit in the for sale section. May be the combination you need to get the bike at the right height. The 13 inch shocks raise the bike up substantially, and gives a much better ride.

 

David, what is the length of your inseams?

 

I had a Mustang Tripper solo on my Nightster...loved it.

 

Add forward controls. I have a 06 1200 low and it's great besides the rough ride.

Im 6'1" 230, im no small dude.

 

From the pic he included, it seems he's already got forwards.