HD 883 Sportster Custom as first bike?

[WicAndThing]

Hello all!

I am new to motorcyles and riding (I have ridden 4-wheelers a good bit). I am signed up for the MSF course in November at our local Harley Davidson store.

They have a used 883 Sportster Custom that I like a lot. However, I'm concerned that it may be a bit much for me to begin on. My problem is that at 5'11", the 250's are too cramped for me. I want to start somewhat small so that I can learn easier. What is your opinion on this bike for a starter bike? When sitting on it, it doesn't seem awkward and I can lean it a good bit to either side without feeling like its going to fall. The Honda Shadow I sat on I felt like it was going to tumble over with just a slight lean. Maybe it was the seating position?

I am also looking at a 450 Rebel and a 1987 Yamaha XV535. Would one of these be better?

Thanks!

[iwannadie]

the 883 isnt an over powering bike from what ive read. ive never road it, but everyone i know who has rode it says its very very under powered. its not a good first choice just because it likely costs twice as much as an equal japanese bike. if you drop the sportster youll be paiyng alot for repairs.

get a cheap beater then move up later if you want the HD logo.

[WicAndThing]

get a cheap beater then move up later if you want the HD logo.

I'm not concerned about the brand as much as getting a bike that I can learn on easily....

[bikeguy joe]

First welcome to the site, it's a great place.

I know you don't want to hear this, but the Sportster isn't the best bike to start out on. It's heavier and more expensive than a lot of other bikes that come to mind. The Rebel and the Yamaha included. If you want a "bigger bike" to start on, there is the Yamaha 650 V-Star series, and the Suzuki "Boulevard" or "Intruder" series. (500-805cc's) Look some of those up on "Google".

You may find that a medium sized used bike is a good choice for a starter bike.

Of the bikes you mentioned, the Yamaha or the Honda would be good ones.

Bottom line is this- learn to ride first and foremost, then buy what you are comfortable with.

[ZooTech]

My best friend has a '98 Sportster 883 which I have ridden quite a bit. His younger brother, who had never even sat on a bike in his life, bought an '05 883 this spring to learn on from scratch. Until that point, he had never even ridden anything with hand controls (like an ATV or anything). So far he's put several thousand miles on the bike without so much as tipping it over, and he's maybe 5'10" tall and 180lbs.

That said (so you know it can be done), I have to agree that the Sporty is a bit top heavy for a beginner. It has a short wheelbase and a tall seat height, making it quite a bit more tippy than the competition. If the Rebel 450 (is it an '86 or '87?) is in good shape, you may want to jump on that since you will have no problem whatsoever selling that bike once you're proficient. If you still want a Sporty afterward, then have at it!

[WicAndThing]

I've been looking online at 2 450 Rebels. Here's the specs...

1) 1986 -has N/A on miles, so I'm assuming that means a new/rebuilt motor. $2670

2) 1987 - 21469 miles. $2270

Both of these bikes have the sissy bar with backrest on them.

I have not had a chance to actually see these in person, but am planning on making a trip to where they are located soon. Will probably call and talk to the seller tomorrow.

Do either of these sound like a good deal?

Thanks!

[iwannadie]

I've been looking online at 2 450 Rebels. Here's the specs...

1) 1986 -has N/A on miles, so I'm assuming that means a new/rebuilt motor. $2670

2) 1987 - 21469 miles. $2270

I have not had a chance to actually see these in person, but am planning on making a trip to where they are located soon. Will probably call and talk to the seller tomorrow.

Do either of these sound like a good deal?

Thanks!

seems way over priced to me considering they are nearly 20 years old... n/a probally means they just dont know how many miles, usually if the motor is rebuilt they will give miles then say 'zero on engine' or soemthing.

[WicAndThing]

seems way over priced to me considering they are nearly 20 years old... n/a probally means they just dont know how many miles, usually if the motor is rebuilt they will give miles then say 'zero on engine' or soemthing.

According to Kelley Bluebook, average retail is $2030. I figured with the sissy bar and backrest it sounded about right.

[iwannadie]

kbb is bloated and over priced as well. check bikes from the early 90s and youll see better deals im sure. i paid 3grand for my 2003 gsx600f with many after market parts. dont take the kbb for a grain of salt.

[bikeguy joe]

Does seem a little high......the prices I mean, not iwanna. I also agree with his statements about the mileage.

What part of the country are you from? Around here (N.E.Ohio) there are lots of 15-20 year old bikes for a 1000 bucks or less.