2019 Harley Davidson Iron 1200 Review

[@EasyRiderGreg]

I only ever bought 1 new Harley. The rest were used. Any more I buy will be used too, because of both cost and warranty issues. Ride safe and stay healthy.

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

Easy Rider Thanks hopefully this helps someone buying a bike!! Ride Safe I need to catch up on your videos I have been super busy.

[@lovingmylifeasIage6741]

I took off the little speed fairing and bought a wind screen call the El paso. it helps with the wind better. I did the stage one on mine also with the FP and it helped with extending the rev range. I can it out to 60 mph in 4th. In fifth it runs a 75 with no problem.

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

Johnny Striple i will have to check out that windscreen

[@lovingmylifeasIage6741]

@@MotorcyclingwithCarl I have the rush slip ons with the 2" baffles. I also got the highway peg arms from Harley. They only come in chrome so I had the powder coated black for $35.00. I bought the Burly high sissy bar. I also got a sissy bar bag/ back pack from Walmart. It works great. If you get one I'll tell you the best way to install it.

[@vraimondi]

@@MotorcyclingwithCarl I believe it is a Memphis Shades El Paso...I have the same one on my Nightster...the Del Ray is nice too...love it!

[@freddempster4085]

When I bought my iron 1200, my rear brake was needing a lot of pressure to stop. A person ran across a crosswalk forcing a panic stop…both brakes to max. This stop must have removed a layer of shipping contamination. Brake has worked perfectly since the panic stop. Maybe a long, controlled stop could clear up the surface. Since about 300 miles my brakes are fine. They work well with the style and weight of the bike. The dual pot calipers are far superior to the older single pucks.

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

Definitely agree. my rear brake stopped squeeking after I purposely did a few hard stops. Thanks for watching and commenting

[@brianminkc]

I have an 883 Custom. It runs great and unless you want to cruise over 75 mph its got plenty of chops. Mine has a 4.5 gallon tank, eat your heart out. I bought my 2009 used in like new condition with 5k miles for $3000. Wisdom comes with age.

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

I like the 4.5 gallon tank part. But I always wanted a new Harley so I bought one. But now if I get a street glide I will look used . Good luck with your bike and ride safe. And my friends say im a wise ass for my age lol

[@jimmansi1187]

Carl, I 100% agree with everything you said here. I was gonna buy new but found a gem, a 1995 1200 with 1,500 orig miles that was kept in this guys house for 23 yrs. it’s an awesome bike. I love the new Iron but just couldn’t afford it. Love your bike, it’s so nice, new sub here!

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

Congratulations on the bike it sounds awesome!! Do you have a KZbin channel? 1500 miles that is like brand new!! Thanks for watching and subscribing. Good luck with the new ride stay safe!!!!

[@jimmansi1187]

No I don’t have a KZbin channel but I’ll be watching yours. There’s a guy near me in Philadelphia who has a channel who has the same bike as you do & is also just starting out. Motojawn is his channel, check him out, he’s very good

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

@@jimmansi1187 we are friendly and are.supposed to meet up at some point. Thanks for watching talk soon

[@freddempster4085]

The 93 to 96 sportsters are the best. I am sorry I traded my 94 883 deluxe in. One of the most reliable bikes I have ever owned. 38k on clock and all I did was regular servicing myself…never a repair. I broke my own rules….always add to the collection, never let go.

[@jimmansi1187]

@@freddempster4085 I also did the same Fred, I just let mine go only because I have a 34 inch inseam & was just way too cramped on it. I really miss that bike but now have a 2005 Superglide & absolutely love it. I’m more stretched out & love the Twin Cam 88 Power but I’ll always have a soft spot for Sportsters, stay safe!

[@gmoney1592]

Good review . I like the way you tell it like it is you have done some nice upgrades to your bike. Some of the issues you Are having with it I think almost every Harley owner has. Starting with price . Everything Harley is expensive. Enjoyed the video ride safe

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

Gary C. Thank you so much for your support of my channel. I am always looking forward to your comments on my videos.

[@RoadRashHD]

I paid a whole lot more then you did here in Canada for mine,and i mean a whole lot more. Yes LED lights for what we pay,as well as a USB plug would be nice

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

Road Rash HD You are correct I forgot about usb. I knew I would forget something.

[@ironmoto889]

🤘

[@georgecostanza2695]

You and me both. I spent upwards of $17k... before taxes and insurance.

[@IronBornRider]

You nailed it, agree with all the points. I feel like HD does this on purpose to make sure people spend more money with them to get the sportster up to speed. Also I didn’t mind it at first, but the smaller gas tank is becoming a pet peeve, having to fuel up pretty much every time.

[@georgecostanza2695]

That's a great price. Got my Sportster in Canada. Base price was around $12k, but with freight, PDI, doc fee, ABS, security (got it for the keyless ignition), and stage 1, it was over $17k... plus taxes and insurance. With bars, lighting, Hammer 1275, cams, Progressive springs and shocks, I could have gotten a Street Glide, but for me and my riding style, I had to build my perfect Harley. I spent 20 years on sport bikes and just wanted a more comfortable riding position. I'm short so getting both feet on the ground was a bonus, but I wasn't looking for luggage, heated seats, floorboards, a stereo, or navigation. Going from an R1 to a Softail was like going from a Ferrari to a pickup truck, and the touring bikes were like minivans. The Sportsters were at least still somewhat light and relatively flickable. I have a Custom so range with the 4.5 gal tank is perfectly acceptable and I don't miss 6th gear, but I'm used to cruising around at 6000rpm. It didn't come cheap, but the way mine sits now, I couldn't be happier. Oh, I almost forgot about all the new gear and helmet. All I had was multi colored to match sport bikes; would have looked like an idiot wearing that stuff on a Harley. So whether you're a new rider or coming off another type of bike, there's another few thousand to spend.

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

Sorry just seeing this comment now never got my notification. I love my sportster but would love to add a second bike for distance rides now. Ride Safe

[@georgecostanza2695]

@@MotorcyclingwithCarl yeah, I know what it's like when that itch rears its head... the new Goldwing is ticking all my boxes😅

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

George Costanza im hoping to do some test rides soon!! Not that im ready to buy yet but always good to have a plan!

[@speedie8776]

I was fortunate enough to shop at a dealership that offers a vip program, that means all my benchmark services are included. Plus a tires for life package that has saved myself over $1,000 so far. Glad I traded in the 883 for a 19’ sport glide

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

two wheel junkie that sounds awesome.

[@vraimondi]

Carl - Great video, thx for sharing. I follow religiously and truly enjoy your content...particularly the installs. Agree with all your points except on turn signals...I like the Harley set up with separate turn signal controllers...perhaps in my mind there is an elegance to the separation vs the metric bike one integrated turn signal controller. Know I can blame you...for my upgrades on my Nightster! I have 3 Harleys...all bought gently used in stock form(...reality is you need more than 1 bike as they all have different personalities and purposes)...all that I kept generally stock until this past weekend when I "upgraded" my black 2012 Nightster to better than stock new with the Vance and Hines 3" Slip Ons (same as yours), Screamin Eagle Rail Collection Air Cleaner (same as yours...PHENOMENOL install video...I always wanted since it came out and hesitated until I saw your install video), and a Dynojet Powervision fuel management tuner (personal preference...was thinking FP3...could have easily gone the other way!). I did also add the buckshot heatshields. I have not ridden it yet as weather in Chicago wasn't too good this past weekend...I did fire it up...between the sound and looks alone...oh man...I'm in love all over again! Yeah, sure it is an expensive hobby...particularly if Harley is (y)our choice...but hey I don't golf, etc.. While you pay a premium, the Harley parts/products are ridiculously perfect in fit and finish...easy installs...that air cleaner was stupid simple...I am embarrassed to admit I was hesitant with how easy it was to install. Other upgrades I have on the Nightster are the Memphis Shades Del Ray Black Gradient Shield, LePera Bare Bones Seat, Bad & G Customs Swing Arm and Fork Bag, Harley Silencer pegs, and Mark's Custom Designs Leather Grip and Fork Covers. I need to send you the link(s) once I shoot an updated video it to show you what you made me do!! Many Thx / All Best

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

Harley Street Bob sounds awesome can’t wait to see it. I love the buckshot heat shields. I really appreciate the support of my channel. I really enjoy doing it. In the the coming weeks im going to do a vlog about my channel. And what’s ahead.

[@vraimondi]

As promised: kzbin.info/www/bejne/d4m8ioGBl5mYaMU

[@vraimondi]

And the sound: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jIqtnHSVqpd5gqM

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

Harley Street Bob sounds so sweet. Great microphone.

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

Harley Street Bob Your bike is awesome. I am actually going to check out the Memphis shades and an LED headlight and do an install video. Love the footpegs I need them now!!!! Thanks for the videos.

[@timfinning]

Hey Carl, I get the rear brake sqeak too. if you have a look at the pads they look like sintered ones, makes them sqeaky from past experience. You guy's are lucky over here in Australia these sell for over $16,000 Australian

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

Tim Finning I may look into some better pads.

[@freddempster4085]

My rear brake seemed to not work well after I bought the 1200. But, after an unexpected need for a maximum brake application from 45 to 0 when a car ran a light, I must have “conditioned” the brake surface a bit. Whoa, after that specific braking my brake performance from the rear improved to what they should be. My thought is that the organic compound must absorb moisture somewhere in manufacturing. My sporty has 9000 miles on it, is fully broken-in and in my opinion has great brakes which are well-balanced to to the ride.

[@timfinning]

@@freddempster4085 the front brakes are great on the sporties my back worked ok but squeaked no matter what I did 👍

[@freddempster4085]

@@timfinning yeah, I hear ya…I still get occasional squeaking from the rear…usually right in front of a bunch of people :(

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

My brakes have been pretty quiet lately no issues.

[@Aircooled865]

Hi carl...another good vid...honest review...agree with all your points...i was wondering for future content if you would do a review whilst riding the bike...im considering an iron 1200.i am particularly interested in how vibrations are on the move and if the shocks are decent...if the seat and apes and foot position is comfy....you strike me as a middle age gent like myself and im wondering if the bike is right for me....id loveca softail ...but i just cannot justify the price....stay frosty mate ..many thanks

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

patrick carey I will see if I can throw a few things in on my next vlog. When I bought this bike I was like I just want it to ride a couple times a week just around town. But then after I got it I can’t get off it and I find myself going further and further. I love the bike and will keep it even if I get something else. But the point of this little paragraph is if you want to ride highways and distance spring for the larger bike. Thanks for watching and supporting my channel. Ride Safe and good luck with the new Ride.

[@mykg1442]

What do you think about the sportster forty eight? Is it worth the money or would you still buy the iron 1200? I’m torn between these 2 motorcycles. Both bike looks fine. Btw, do you get a lot of vibrations on highway when running 80mph and up? Love your content! Subbed!

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

Mike PT I think the fourty eight has a smaller fuel tank so that can suck. I find myself fueling up all the time as it is. I love my bike and would not get rid of it but would love a second bike for highway rides and long trips 65 is pushing it with vibration going 80 on this bike is crazy. Might be a little better when I put the slightly higher sport screen on from Memphis Shades

[@tylerhubbell6410]

Try different handlebars too.I went with the biltwell 10 inch window bars on mine and it handles way better than the stock mini apes.

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

Its amazing how even the smallest change to the bar area makes it feel like a whole different bike.

[@dantedias4064]

The only time I bought a new Harley was my first Harley . After that , I aways bough used ones . In my country , the bike loses 15% value as soon as you leave the dealership . Another interesting thing with Harleys is that people sometimes buy them in an impulse , but after a few months they don't even ride anymore , and they sell the bikes like new ! Bought an Iron 1200 with 1500 miles on it . Brand new , all taxes already paid , 20% less than a new one .

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

That is a good deal. I am figuring to hold on to my bike for a while so I know its story from day one. Harleys here tend to hold their value pretty good. Thanks for watching and commenting I appreciate it ride safe!!

[@MrHippi1234]

In america Harleys dont lose value when they leave the dealership. They typically retain their value even after a crash.

[@Bostonharborwater]

That’s a great looking bike.

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

Thank You. I love this bike absolutely no regrets buying this one. Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@MrHippi1234]

Contrary to belief, you do not need to tune your bike after upgrading to stage 1. When you get a tuner youre basically upgrading to stage 1.5.

[@mikeparks3938]

YOU NEED TO READ THE MAGNUSON MOSS WARRANTY ACT. YOU DO NOT HAVE TO TAKE YOUR NEW BIKE BACK TO HD FOR ANYTHING AND YOU CAN DO IT YOURSELF AS LONG AS YOU DOCUMENT ALL THAT YOU DID DURING SERVICING.

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

Agreed But the dealers try hard to tell you otherwise. Thanks for watching and commenting

[@maxf3093]

Carl can you please provide the model number of the swingarm bag you recommended?

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

Max F I will try to add the model and a link in the description but I think the Harley site is down at the minute. I will put it up when it lets me on.

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

The link is in the description!!!

[@melvinveney]

Great vid bud!

[@Peter-zr8kq]

I have the same bike with the OEM Michelin Scorchers and laid it down on wet pavement. It slid like I was on ice coming to a traffic signal even though it was a warm summer morning. Have you or anyone else with this bike noticed how dangerous the bike is under wet surfaces without ABS? By the way I am ok. But will never ride it again on wet road conditions.

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

Did it just start raining when it happened? It almost sounds like they’re may have been some fuel or oil on the pavement that the water brought out. Glad you are okay. I personally avoid riding in the rain but you tend to get caught in it sometimes.

[@rtpwyk]

Little did Carl know, the Sporter price was about to double. :(

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

Everything is so overpriced now! Thanks for watching and commenting

[@rtpwyk]

@@MotorcyclingwithCarl It really does look like the 1200 evo going away is the last of the real Harley engines. No more loping. No more potato. I am going to add one to the stable.

[@ronhernandez9198]

In California...i paid 16K out the door. You gotta a great deal.

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

Everything seems so expensive in California. We are about average prices here in Ct. thanks for watching.

[@TexRider]

haha no way. I love the turn signals.. I hate them one button things.

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

Tex Rider I grew up with the one button thing. I guess its true you can’t teach an old dog new tricks lol. Thanks again for watching and commenting.

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

Tex Rider subbed I will check your channel out tonight

[@olironrider8918]

👍👍

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

Old Man Ona Street Thank You for the sub I hope you enjoy my channel!

[@jacobh2322]

What air intake is that?

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

Its a screaming eagle I have a video of the install on my channel and I believe I left the link in the description to it on the Harley Site. Let me know if you can’t find it.

[@LANTURA]

I got mine for 11.400 in Belgium, you sir overpayed

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

kenneth audenaert they don’t deal to much around here when its not an in stock bike. I had to get it brought in from another dealer.

[@LANTURA]

Motorcycling with Carl ah i see 👍🏼

[@betruly7894]

Carl sorry, but your dealership is a crap. If my dealership was like this i will tread the bike for a Japanese. Even-though i have a sportster 1200T. Seriously maybe next year tread your bike, because your dearlership will cost you money on the long term. My dealer is fantastic, he just gave me a new battery after 8 months riding the bike, the one it come with dry out. My next and last bike will be a used Road-King and i will no more buy any bike. If my HD dearler close, then i will get a BMW.

[@MotorcyclingwithCarl]

Photo Hope I hear you. Luckily I do most of my own work. Had to go to the dealer for my first service to not void my warranty. Ride Safe!! Hope you enjoy my channel.