I think that James Russell dude favors the 1200 Custom Sportster. If I was going to buy a newer Sportster, I would favor it. Bigger gas tank and more power. That gas tank is around the size of a Savage gas tank. I doubt you'll get far on that tank with the bigger engine and heavier bike. Harleys generally aren't known for fuel mileage (probably not as bad as the big twins, though
). What is worse is the tank shape and that stinkin' Harley air cleaner
. I sat on an 883, and one annoying thing is that I can't really hug the tank with my knees, and that stupid air cleaner is sticking out to bash your shin. The 1200 tank is at least wider, I think. I've never sat on one, though.
I've never ridden a Harley, and I am guessing that Serowbot owns an 883, or something, so he would be a better judge than I am. From what I gather, it's not all that much faster than a well-tuned Savage, so if speed or acceleration is a concern, then you certainly want a 1200.
If I ever buy a Harley, my first choice would be a Sportster-- Ironhead or Evo, but I'd really consider an Ironhead because I like kickstart
. Sportsters are small, light(er) and, amongst Harleys-- dirt cheap
.
If I bought a big twin, it would probably be an old, cheap blockhead (Evo) or shovelhead. No twin cam crap for me!