Older low mileage bikes often have the original tires, check the tire dates and sidewalls for checking. Old Dunlop rubber gets really hard, and really loses traction. If you get a new tire for a 1200C with a spoke front wheel, I'd sure get a new tube, too, they don't cost much.

Higher mileage sportsters with the original clutch have a ticking time bomb in the riveted plates in the clutch pack. My 1200 had about 30K on it when I got it, pulled the plates, and the brass rivets were already getting loose. I've heard it ruins your day when the rivets shear. Aftermarket plate sets eliminate the riveted plates; I used Barnett, but there are other brands with satisfied customers.

My carbed 1200 gets better mileage than my 883. Doesn't really mean anything, same year same model Harleys often get different mileage; get another 883/1200 pair and they might be the opposite. Newer FI engines might get more consistent mileage.

 

Ive had both a 2001 & 2010 sportster. There is very little difference in "ride-ability"

like mentioned before, there is a little more vibration in the older bike.
BUT For the price difference Id buy an older one.

And if it means anything I got rid of the 2010 I had and still have my 2001.

 

I mostly agree with this. One of the reasons I would like a 1200/1250 would be the extra passing power. Especially on the slab passing 18 wheelers and other multi-axle trucks. As for the gas consumption? I would think the taller gearing of the stock 1200 would help compensate for that?

Back on topic, I agree that a 2004+ Sporty is the way to go. However, I'm sort of split between liking a carbed bike and the 2007+ EFI bikes. Both have their pros and cons. I've had both carbed and EFI Sportsters and could live with a carburetor. Although if you live at sea level and travel into the high altitude mountains, carb issues can pop up. That shouldn't happen with an EFI.

Carb Sportys sound awesome with the right pipes. They're easier and cheaper to tune.

EFI are start and go. No choke and are easier in cold weather.

Carbs are easy to fix while EFI is complex and expensive.

The carb bikes are usually cheaper to buy when buying a used bike. The EFI Sportsters will be newer and will likely have fewer miles on them.

 

Agreed.

No, at the same speed my 1200L revs lower than an 883L of the same year and sounds more peaceful.

 

Thank you very much for all your help. Think I'll go with an 07 or 08. Got a few around my area with less than 3000 miles on them for around $5500 Canadian.