Size difference between a HD Sportster 883 and a 1200??

[Brent]

You are comparing apples to apples. Sportster is a cruiser...

[paul246]

First, to keep things simple I'm comparing the Sportster models that I would buy if seriously shopping, these being the Roadster models.

The 1200R will be cheaper than the 883R in the long and short run.

Price difference here in Canada is only $1130.00. Also, if you are having to pay someone to do the work, factor in a lot more money. If you are doing the work yourself, still not enough price difference to justify the trouble and downtime.

Plus, the 1200R comes in 8 colour choices, the 883R a paltry 3 choices.

The 1200R engine has highlighted head fins and cylinders, much better looking than the all black 883R engine.

The 1200R has the brighter silver 13 spokes wheels.

The 1200R comes with a tachometer, a big plus IMO and worth at least a few hundred bucks more The 883R only has a speedo.

[earwig]

resale will be better and easier on the 1200 also

[Andy G]

The Suzuki DRZ400S has more horsepower and torque than a Harley 883, and I rode the 1200 Sportster and it didn't impress me, it was S---L---O----W----------

OK that's great...thanks for that.

The next time I'm interested in the HP and torque numbers, I'll ask you. The next time I am interested in what bike impresses you, I'll ask. But until then...

[DieMonkeys]

I wonder if we could start a petition to have Motof150 gently removed from the forum?

Personally I'd go with the 1200. But that's just me.

[jstark47]

An article on the economics of the 883 to 1200 conversion: http://www.chuckhawks.com/bucks_sportster.htm Caveat: this is copyright 2002 so the prices may have changed since then.

[jmillheiser]

IMHO I would take the 1200 over the 883. The conversion kit may only be 1000 bucks but dont forget labor to install it (dealer has to do it if you want to keep your warranty and HD dealer labor is pricey).

I have ridden a sportster 1200 and it was definately not slow, IIRC the sporty 1200 is the fastest HD other than the V-Rod line and the Buells.

which sportster model are you looking at, there are some differences.

it basically goes

1200C - custom, has forward controls and spoke wheels, also more rake angle
1200L - Low, has lowest seat height and mid mount controls
1200R - Roadster, has taller seat height, dual front discs (very worth it IMHO), mid mount controls, black engine accents, and cafe racerish styling.