2004 Harley Davidson Sportster- Your thoughts please!

[chacci49]

I am thinking of buying a 2004 HD Sportster and would like some oppinions on whether to buy one or not. Good or bad, give it to me straight. Thank you!

[jstark47]

Some information about your riding experience & background, interests, and intended kind of riding would be helpful. Should we assume you're a new or fairly new rider?

[chacci49]

Yes, I am new to motorcycles and looking to buy something soon. I am looking to start riding as my kids are getting old enough to allow my wife and I a new experience and a great way to spend time together. I also have several buddies at work that really enjoy the freedom a bike offers and really would like to enjoy it too. My dad had a Triumph back in the 80's, but an accident really put the kabosh on riding. This may also spark and interest for him to get back on two wheels.
I have an opportunity to buy a 2004 Harley Davidson 1200 Sportster for $5,000. I am currently researching parts availability and seeking as much information as possible to guide me in the right direction towards the purchase of a motorcycle. Your experience, honesty and thoughts would greatly appreciated. Thanks for your response.

[Johnj]

Have you taken the MSF safety course?

[chacci49]

Not yet, but definitely planning on it.

[jstark47]

You need to do that before you think about what bike to get. If you've never ridden, it's hard for you to imagine what different kinds of bikes feel like. Lots of people have gone into the MSF course thinking they wanted one kind of bike, then come out with completely different thoughts after experiencing riding.

[Wrider]

Well I wouldn't buy a 1200 for a first bike, but they're not bad... IIRC 04 was the first year of the rubber-mounted engine, so vibration is way reduced, which helps.

I'd take the MSF class first though and then decide on what to buy.