2018 Harley-Davidson Iron 1200 (XL1200NS) │ First Ride and Review

Get a Detailed look at the all new Iron 1200 just announced by Harley-Davidson. Matt Laidlaw Reviews the bike and explains who this motorcycle is best suited for and what type of riding it's best for. The Iron 883, first introduced in 2009, has become a staple in the H-D Lineup and a best seller in it's class. Harley-Davidson has taken this popular model to the next level. For those that are making a buying decision on this bike need to watch this video.
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[@ntdfmaverick]

I never miss one of your videos, and often go back and re-watch them. You do a better job getting the word out than the Motor Company, itself. Thanks.

[@artnmore]

Thanks for the review Matt. It was interesing having your friend go along on the ride. Sportsters are the backbone of the Harley's allowing a lot of people to get a HD without going into debt. Great starter bike and also glad to hear they did something with the suspension.

[@mtericktucson]

Really appreciate the young lady's perspective. My daughter is starting out, great to see this.

[@donaldsoncole3095]

Your 2 guest speakers were on point with their evaluations and pleasant in nature.I would continue getting the youth involved, very original for a strategy! They bring the energy up for the video!

[@michaeldew8193]

Matt, I just put 500 miles on my 2020 iron 1200. Factory shocks are set at the 2nd dot. Adjusting to the 4th dot I'm noticing a huge difference in handling. Way better, more "planted" on the road. My first Harley, and I am satisfied. I had no idea that Harley's are better appreciated when you own one. Thank you to all HD employees, (Owners) Fans, and Dealers. I wish I never had a Metric bike now. I have been baptized in the HD faith and now a converted HD follower. Thank you all.

[@MyDyerMaker]

I was the same way. I had a sportbike previously. There's something very appealing about the Sportsters that's hard to describe. It just looks and sounds how a motorcycle should and you can't understand that until you ride or own one.

[@sniping12]

i just bought an iron 1200 but i left it at the dealer so they can install pipes, intake and programmer, i cannot wait to get it and as time goes i get more and more excited, should have it by Thursday.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Nice man congrats

[@sniping12]

Thanks Matt, very much appreciated, i hope to make it to your dealer sometime, looks like a really nice facility.

[@turkeyface4638]

@@sniping12 could you give us a review after a year of ownership? I'm asking because I am thinking about getting myself an iron 1200

[@Mike-bv2yf]

Very informative content.Melindas testimonial was helpful as well.Glad they are keeping the 883 for entry level and paint options.Another great review.Anything I may have had a question about was answered.

[@darkoflight4938]

Your video editing skills are evolving to something really awesome! Interesting to hear about the Amf days. Cool bike too! I don't know what to say except that this is THE Harley Davidson channel to watch. Informative and entertaining. Do I sound too much of a fanboy..? It's because I am:) Keep 'em coming sir!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thank you! Fan boys are welcome 👍🏻

[@adibee88]

Matt, you did it again! Although HD sold the Motor Company to AMF, it allowed the Motor Company to stay afloat, repossess the Motor Company and move forward with drastic improvements. It was survival mode for HD. I really dig your history you provide on the reviewed bikes, way to keep us informed! When I was in the Marine Corps, stationed in NC a few years back, the 2010 Iron 883 was my "Welcome Back" ride after a 6 year hiatus. I tricked it out, but always hoped for a 1200 Iron. I'm glad HD made this model and I love the old school AMF paint colorway, but the new school reliability! The 1200 Iron is a WINNER for sure! Thank you for this review Matt! 👊

[@breakoutpete210]

The proportions, and the lines of these bikes are just perfect. They're probably going to fly out the door! Can't wait to test ride one! Again, great video Mat!

[@dennism103]

I'm buying one for my son at the end of the month, because of u matt. Not all heroes wear capes!

[@tonyv7307]

Senor Matt....as always great review! Bought a 2017 48 as my first bike. Definitely was influenced to get mine because of your videos! Thanks amigo!

[@turtle19dad]

Tony V yep. Me too. I want the iron 1200 but I wouldn’t turn down an 883

[@totesundermyhouse]

I just came home with the iron 1200 yesterday and I’m absolutely in love! It’s my first bike, I’m a 5’5” female and this is a perfect fit for me, it’s got some after market Vance & Vines pipes don’t it’s much louder than stock and I love it!! Also the black outs are sexy as hell!

[@erwinballings9155]

Hello Matt, great review like always. Greets from Belgium

[@tonyheymunkets]

me personally I like the 883 looks quite a bit better. I don't like the handlebars and the tank on the iron 1200. I wish they would have put a 1200 in the regular styled 883.

[@luisv8413]

Yes! I was looking into buying one of these bikes, so glad you reviewed it.

[@MattLaidlaw]

I hope I helped with your decision.

[@fililoboesparza5784]

Iron 1200 looks old school with some new touches I like that.. H-D get a A+ with the 1200 iron. Thanks Matt like always great video..

[@wvrebel76]

When i was a teenager. My brother did some trading for a Harley golf cart. 😆 We drove that thing everywhere. Some old guy at the time wanted it for his collection. So my brother doubled his money on it.

[@thomasangelo4219]

Love the paint job you got to love the simplexity of a Sportster a lot more power then you would think great video thank you Matt

[@elephant2012]

Matt loves the history lesson on the AMF! And getting the actual customer experience at the end was insightful

[@melvinveney]

Great review. I like how you went into detail. You definitely earned a new subscriber!

[@sportglidejim9001]

Great bike! Back to what motorcycling is all about... I've owned two Vrods, Street Glide and Ultras but I have to say I love my Sportster...Good review... Ride hard or stay home😎 ps: love the evolution motor & hello Melissa glad you're riding again

[@christophermejia7746]

I do love the way the iron 1200 looks and rides!! I got to test ride the iron 1200 at Long Beach ims as well as other models!! Definitely considering the iron 1200 As my first Harley!! Although that heritage looks amazing too!!!

[@BillC518]

I won a 2020 Iron 1200 in a charity raffle a couple of months ago. After about 300 miles, my impressions: Overall I like it, but that rear suspension is definitely being upgraded to 13.5 or 14 inch rear shocks. Will also be looking into front suspension upgrades also, to see if travel can be increased another inch or so. I fitted it with a Harley Tall Boy seat, but the foam in it was too soft, so I bought a used Iron 883 seat and will be having that reconfigured to be taller, flatter, and the rear support farther back. The mini apes are okay, but Iron 883 bars are probably going to replace them. It joins a '00 Kawasaki Concours, '09 BMW F650 GS and '03 Sportster 1200 100th Anniversary Edition in my fleet.

[@simonclark8176]

I'm so glad Willy G , got Harley Davidson back to its former glory ... I salute you !!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Same!

[@fredgfysmith6171]

Simon Clark dam straight, i wake up every morning head out the the garage and thank the willy g poster on the wall..... No i don't but i should and tomorrow morning i will. THANKYOU WILLY G.

[@davidknows3320]

I'd love this for a bump around bike. The retro AMF paint sets Harley has been introducing are awesome.

[@thomasj2394]

Very Helpful review on the Iron 1200. I am looking to upgrade from a HD Sportster 883 2007, and the Iron 1200 is definitely a bike I am looking at.

[@justcallmejoeable]

Best reviews on KZbin.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thank you

[@Zombie-jh6mq]

I've been doing my homework on the 48 and the iron 1200, and this video really helps out bro ! Good vid !! And you filmed in near were I live haha, u were on garvey ave in Baldwin park off the 10 ! Gonna go check out the bike in person soon ! Thanks bro !

[@joeglenn7323]

Harley's come in wide ranging styles/flavors, which is great. Everybody has styling cues they like/don't like. For me, I like the styling of the 883. I'd want that with the 1200 engine. That said, I agree with Andrew, Roadster all the way.

[@ragimundvonwallat8961]

i like the 883 the best

[@CactusJack252]

I bought an iron 1200 and I love it! I have a bigger fairing on the way and a few other things.

[@imretro808]

all i want is a bike with the looks of an 883 and the performance of an 1200

[@PHXDOG]

I have a 2021 XL Iron 1200. I am having the tank modified to hold 5 gals. I am working on some other upgrades and I am going to ride from Dallas TX to Sturgis SD in 2022, 1075 miles. One of my mods is putting front and back cameras on the bike and recording that trip. I have done multiple 75 mile one way trips on the bike going from Dallas to Choctaw Casino daily do to work. Longest trip was a weekend trip to LA. 201 miles one way. No issues with cramping, or being uncomfortable. Bike worked well at speeds of 60 to 90 mph. The 3.2 gallon tank was an issue that is why I am have the tank worked on to get up to 5 gals.

[@MrXo]

Good stuff bro! Trying to get my big brother on an Iron or Roadster. Nice video

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thanks! Get your Bro on a Bike!

[@pinkiewerewolf]

I liked getting the perspectives from three different riders, added a level of authenticity to the observations. Andrew was right, the dual disc Roadster would be my choice at this level. I've heard that it is a style aspect for H-D to keep putting out bikes with one front disc but I won't buy a large street bike unless it has dual front disc brakes.

[@dadtrap]

Matt, love the throwback paint and the fact they blacked out the motor. Only negative in my view is the seat. I have an 01 XL1200 and my wife actually will get on it still for a real short hop. Any other ride we have to take one of our baggers

[@denismilchev1913]

Great review man keep them coming

[@MyDyerMaker]

I really like the EVO engines for the reasons you stated. My previous bike was a 600RR and I now own 2 Sportsters- a Roadster and a Nightster. I have more fun on them than I ever did on a sportbike. I think people will get 'it' about Harleys when they ride one, especially a bike with an EVO engine.

[@RALearmont]

I’m really enjoying these videos. I don’t ride - yet- and the advice given is really useful. I reckon I know where I’m going (after I’ve taken my tests!🤣) Good stuff!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Come see me brother.

[@11123DRUMMER32111]

Just got home from the dealership with the XL1200NS in cherry. It didn’t take much convincing for me to snag it. Absolutely stunning bikes in my opinion.

[@PRebol94]

Saw one the other day there with white walls wire wheels and a sissy bar. It was everything i ever wanted on a bike! Ill be back soon so get it !!

[@steveedwards2911]

Great vid Matt as usual .Great bikes the sportster range especially for shorter riders like myself ,do you think they will ever give it sixth gear . Have a street Bob now but did have more fun on my sporty

[@FullMetalGoat]

i had been considering the iron 883 but was sad that the nightster was gone and i had missed that boat but this bike is what im after! this is the first bike from harley that i wouldnt wanna change a thing on right after purchase (i would eventually haha) but it looks so good right off the show room floor

[@americandualsportrvifeadve3153]

Another great watch. Nice throw back paint on it.

[@jimmypinch]

Great vid great bikes thanks for making good moto vids

[@cjsmith]

Nice edit! - We’ll be adding Hardcase risers and pro tapers with larger Harley sportster fairing that has Windshield, Daymaker, Saddlemen seat, Plus a two into one exhaust with Vance and Hines tuner.

[@MattLaidlaw]

The Hardcase Risers are sick man. we are gonna do a FATBob build with some soon.

[@Earth_wind_dan_fire]

That sounds awesome. Would love to see the end result of that.

[@doylee469]

The paint is classic and few brands use the actual decals even. This being the paint job that it is could end up being a short lived thing making the bikes value hold even better.

[@dshevack1]

Good video, thank you for comparing it to the roadster and the iron 883 with with an upgraded 1200 engine. I still think the iron 883 looks better then the 1200 iron. Just not a fan of the AMF area paint.

[@Matt_Kane]

Alright, sorry for “beating a dead horse!” So, I have my license and have ridden on the street before. Is it better to make the jump to the Iron 1200 over the 883? I haven’t ridden in a few years, and have limited experience! However, I’m 35 years old and like to think I’m pretty responsible! Any input would be greatly appreciated! Thanks guys! This channel is the best on KZbin, hands down! 👌🏻🙌🏻💪🏻

[@harleydreamz6263]

Your gotta make sure about your riding style man, im looking for my first one i was so set on the 1200 but that tank tho lol its all up to your style Matt laidlaw has some awesome videos on how to pick your bike check em out

[@Nyle1337]

Now that's a beautiful bike.

[@florenciogarcia808]

Just Bought the 1200 hasn’t been two days and it in the service shop hopefully they get it fixed Harley Davidson said this is a very common problem which is disappointing when you just bought 2019 sportster

[@sktoday1]

Matt you always have thoughtful and well laid out reviews! Finally bought my first Harley! Hope this isn't odd but what the name of the song for the bumper music?

[@geraldburrow3524]

I ride a xl 1200 ns 2021 from riding a 1999 Road King Classic I put 100370 miles on it with one top end done went from 1450 to 1550 . I wanted something new & fast & easy to maneuver more into riding around town & to work 26 miles one way curvey & hilly I have added a chop windshield & small saddle bags hwy bar's and Willie - G black pegs, I really love the Iron & mini apes really cool ride. Thanks for the video on the bikes. Ps I had a 1981 super glide that had a 3.6 Gas tank & this Sporty has 3.3 at about 48 mpg & my Super got 42 mpg . Have fun & be safe & healthy.

[@tungstenkraken2929]

Dude I love your channel and this was a great video...but if I ever hear the song you had looped in the background again I might stick ice picks in my ears

[@tskuligowski]

Matt, regarding the format of your videos...I preferred when it was just you talking about the bike while riding. When you're using the multiple riders it's distracting when you keep switching views during the ride. I prefer the way you used to do the reviews by yourself other than riding the same route every time ;) However, keep up the great work! I really look forward to your content. I think you do the best reviews by far on KZbin.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thank you for this feedback. This style has come from a lot of people saying they want more footage of me on the bike and other people's perspective. I appreciate your suggestion. Thanks!

[@anthonysiracuse1344]

I love that step seat it’s like a 1up step seat.

[@CGF101]

I live in Boise. Used to live in corona ca but they have small selection of Harley’s at high desert Harley up here. Do u ship bikes???

[@spideliciousx9822]

Another great review and loved the impromptu review with Melinda (correct spelling I hope?) Good to see she was ok after her accident and back into riding. My only "Nit Pick" is your choice of music in this one 😖 Keep up the great vids mate!

[@MattLaidlaw]

Haha yea the music was a bit eccentric. I try to keep things fresh

[@TheSkyhighmusic]

I want this bike..I was thinking about the street rod but after getting on the iron 1200 I want this bike badd now lol

[@kingy2063]

Hi Matt, thanks for the review as I'm currently debating the various merits of the sportsters. Really like the look of the 48 but that tank range is an issue. The 1200 iron could well be the answer to my questions; do you know if the headlight fairing will come off without it looking odd? Many thanks from a chilly UK.

[@RandallTheBackRoadRider]

My '16 super low is a great ride and very reliable. I'm all out a sportster rider. Love the look of the 1200 iron. What's the top speed? And what kind of stage kits are on it stock?

[@CZESAR99]

Great video!! But bro why u threw that rock ? Why that cell old cell phone in the end hahahahaha and why the music 🎵 in the end hahahahaha great review

[@Silverbulletzx3]

Just got a 2019 Iron 1200 in Twisted Cherry!

[@rexypoo27]

silver bullet i am currently looking at buying the exact same bike,would you recommend it

[@donhenderson5100]

And thank you for mentioning your height!! All reviews should have the rider say their height, weight and inseam. It help put the ergonomic comments in perspective. I love both Irons.

[@peacefulwarrior4078]

same old same old ,gonna buy a Indian ftr 1200 this fall 100 hp n at 315lbs with ohlins suspension hell yeah,love my nightster that I did a flattracker set up on it but the Indian ftr is in a whole different league...

[@chrishealy5536]

Hey Matt , great reviews , appreciate the history ! Do you know if anybody has added whitewalls to this model yet ? I'm interested to know if it fits the look of the iron 1200?

[@MattLaidlaw]

I haven't seen any around with whitewalls yet. I'm sure there is someone in the world that has installed them though

[@BusterKitten]

what's the future hold for the Sportster line? Heard they'll be dropped in a year or so.

[@filoIII]

After having Sportsters for so long, I just CAN'T get along w/ the blinker setup on other bikes. LOVE having left thumb/right thumb blinkers.

[@rolexgonzales4552]

It looks great, but where is the harley music.? Ist thing to do is upgrade the pipes to really feel it. Cant wait to upgrade mine, a denim black 2018 from 883 to 1200. They claim it would be faster than the stock1200 sportster, if that is true.?

[@gatorsmotorcyclemisadventu4341]

I went with my iron 1200 over any other bike when iwent to buy my 1st brand new bike. Ive had many hds of all kinds and a ironhead was my 1st bike at 16. I slready have a shovelhead and a dyna superglide but i fell in love with the look of the bike and its potential. My iron 1200 now has tall sissy bar sadleman step seat moustache bars full stage 1 kit n goin more with performance. Its a club/bobber mix and ive done a 3k mile trip on it. I find myself riding it more than my big twin.

[@lxrgrandom]

Yo! Great video, but whats the difference between xl1200x and xl1200ns? Only looks?

[@Jeevish-ks6ts]

can you tell me which bike in the sportster family is the best and more powerful and also most popular plz!!!!

[@markgamble8377]

Have the 2016 roadster. Love it.

[@abelvasquez2804]

Is this the Baldwin park location? I'm gonna head there this sat to check them out might replace my scr950???

[@MattLaidlaw]

Yes, yea come see us. We have Bob's Birthday going on too. Come get some In-In-Out

[@Bejebeaman]

Love your videos man! Hope you guys get a forty eight special to review soon

[@MattLaidlaw]

I will in about a week or two

[@Axl_colts]

Do they make aftermarket fuel gauges for the Sportsters?

[@St0rmzxx]

Love the design, love the 1200 upgrade. But god damn do I dislike that tank graphic. I'm not trying to relive the AMF days or the 70's in general. Really wish they'd at least have a couple base color options for sale for people like me, now the first thing I'm gonna have to do to my bike is get it painted.

[@truckerbaty7425]

Exactly! These paint schemes suck...

[@bluesriderDF]

It's amazing how littler has changed on the Sportster since my 2007. Really looking forward to the refresh! Those AMF graphics are just "threw up in my mouth a little" awful. There's nothing about the 70s I want to be reminded of.

[@turtle19dad]

Matt did she upgrade? Also, I am kind of in a holding pattern for my Harley. I was looking around at my local dealership and they were concentrated more on getting the 2022 bikes in. They told me HD isn't shipping and Irons with ABS. Of course when I try to talk to someone else, I get no response. Or is it if I want security/ABS you order from the factory?

[@clintonlunn4357]

Hello Matt, what year did sportsters go from 39 to 49 mm forks? Thank you.

[@limitlessautomedia9794]

I would love the 2018 Harley but in all black. Is that a vinyl decal on the tank or is it painted?

[@infiniteg7852]

Same question that I have. I think it’s too tacky ?

[@Liliana2209]

What are those gloves you kept flashing !

[@traeucity6087]

Brings back memories of crushing dudes' egos, after my '03 Sportster Sport 1200 destroyed their 60 grand and up, pro street customs, traffic light to traffic light, during the Republic of Texas Rallies in Austin, Texas. The 1200's power to weight ratio couldn't be matched in shorter distances; but being challenged by a "skirtster", and a couple of drinks would make guys lose sight of that. Winning those $20 bets kept my peanut tank filled all rally long. Good times.

[@Jeevish-ks6ts]

BRO if possible please do a review on the harley davidson 1200 custom next time!!!!

[@infiniteg7852]

I’m 6’1, 195 Pounds. Would this one or the Street XG750, be better for a Beginner Rider? Also, does this bike have a gear indicator ? Also, can you remove that blue design from the gas tank ?

[@dshevack1]

Can you tell me after riding it on turns how many times did you scrape the pegs. Do you feel it would benefit a rider to move the pegs up. I am 5’8

[@ejmartinez3833]

David Shevack I’m 5’8 as well, and moving the foot controls forward one thing I do soon with my iron 1200. I don’t scrap my pegs much all though I’m sure I come close a lot more time than I think.

[@pinoyams]

@@ejmartinez3833 would you like to trade for my 2016 forward controls ? ill take the mids

[@fredgfysmith6171]

You guys are way taller than i am and you guys didn't seem to be as cramped on there as i would have thought. I'm working on a getting a second bike, something light, handles good and fast. My buddy has a sportster with a lot of motor work and it sounds really good. Sitting on it it feels like a dirt bike, very light feeling. Great now i'm thinking about a third bike.

[@ianclose123]

Is it true the 1200 conversion for the 883 doesn't alter the gearing? Surely the gearing in the factory 1200 is different to the factory 883 gearing?

[@88ranchok]

Is there a small windshield that will attach to the small fairing that's cheaper than buying a big giant windshield

[@jeromewieland55]

therealvegan runner I’m needing one too! Waiting for a response with ya bro

[@david.f7076]

Hi. How long is the conductor of the iron 1200? I want to buy this motorcycle. I'm 6 years old and I don't know if it will be too small for me. Thanks

[@bavarikus4103]

Fine review Matt. Nice Bikes also, i belive the company will stop the sportster in 2019. I like the coulor and prefer the 1200. But... as a 6"3 guy... I stay at my Night Train. Your co driver is sympatic, also the lady. So, btw, nice socks man. ;-). As always, best regards and greetings. Alex.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Thanks Alex, Yea, at 6'3'' with years of riding experience the softail is a lot better suited for a rider like you. Thanks for the compliment on my socks game

[@Mr12hollywood]

I wish you would review the 1200 custom man.

[@EternalOcean1]

Cool bikes 🏍 just miss an automatic gearbox for me to brought it instantly for ours heavy traffic conditions!) So for now it’s t-max all day any day! Harley we await you for some big release!)

[@talkingrock7011]

beautiful day to ride

[@RatherBePrivateThanTell]

History defines us and we learn from it, make changes and work to not make the same mistakes. We all have our History, but we have to embrace it, I think.

[@georgecostanza2695]

Hi Matt, great review as usual. One question: could you tell us what the difference is in gearing between the Iron 883 and 1200? Specifically, is it just a different sprocket or do the trans gears have different ratios?

[@MattLaidlaw]

I’ll look Into this and get back to you. Im not sure off the top of my head.

[@dennism103]

I use to think Harleys were undependable too because of the amf days also...

[@jordankelly4684]

Dennis Morris that was an extremely long time ago

[@ineshtandon3304]

Is that headlight hood removable?

[@pinoyams]

thanks for the review how tall is your co worker in the video?

[@gangsterkitty500]

I’m really wanting to get a sportster in the near future. And I like this model a lot, but I have to get something my wife can ride on the back of occasionally. Is it possible to put a seat suitable for 2 people. If not I’m gonna go with the 1200 custom. I just want the blacked out look.

[@MattLaidlaw]

Yes, you can easily add a passenger seat in there. You gotta get passenger pegs too.