Harley-Davidson Iron 883 Sportster Review

Review of my Harley Iron 883 Sportster! (2013)
I'm GIVING AWAY a Harley! Join at:
❱ / blockheadmoto
Don't forget to Subscribe!
❱ www.bit.ly/BHM-Sub
Checkout these other useful review vids of the Iron 883:
► Why I Chose The Iron 883: • Why I chose the Harley...
► Is the 883 a Good Starter Bike: • Is the Harley Sportste...
► Iron 883 On the Highway: • Harley Iron 883 Sports...
________
I recently traded in my 2013 Iron 883 for a 2017 Low Rider S. As I owned the bike for a year and put almost 3,000 miles on it, I figured a review was in order.
The Iron 883 is a great bike! For me, it was a great introductory bike into cruiser style motorcycles. It's not too big, it's peppy, and very nimble. It looks AWEsome! The gas mileage is great (vs my car at the time,) and you can customize it to your heart's content to make it your own!
With an insane amount of aftermarket options ranging from chin fairings to big bore kits, Harley's Sportster line is incredibly customizable from start to finish, making it incredibly hard to leave it stock. I've seen people build the Sportsters into Cafe Racers, Choppers, Scramblers, Bobbers... the possibilities are endless!
And with it all built on Harley's Evo engine, which first came out in 1984, the Sportster line is as reliable as it is capable. It's stripped down to the bare essentials, and while some people might not like that and want more features like cruise control and heated grips, being 'bare bones' is what makes the Sportsters such reliable and malleable bikes.
Overall, the Iron 883 definitely gets my 'Blockhead Stamp of Approval!' I absolutely loved owning the Iron 883 while I had it. Spent lots of time wrenching on 'er in the garage making it my own (as seen in the 'How To' videos!) It's the whole reason I started this channel, with the name of the channel even being an nod to a nickname that didn't stick w/ the Evo engine, aka: The Blockhead. (other Harley engines: Panhead, Ironhead, Shovelhead, etc)
The Iron will be missed, but I can confidently say, it won't be the last Sportster I ever own. I'd love to build a 1200 for the stable at some point. Who knows, maybe I'll take a page from ChaseOnTwoWheels' book and do a 'Wrecked Bike Rebuild' on a Harley 48 Sportster, or go even farther back and do a Nightster, what do you guys think?
As always, thanks for tuning in all! Be sure to Like / Comment / Subscribe!
Till next time, you all ride safe out there, & stay vigilant!
Deuces!
▬
BIKES:
2013 Harley-Davidson Iron 883
2014 Yamaha YZF-R6
1987 Honda Rebel 250
▬
► Shop! - bit.ly/Shophead
► Subscribe! - bit.ly/BlokHdYTSub
► SOCIAL:
Instagram - bit.ly/BlokHdIn...
Facebook - bit.ly/BlokHdFa...
Twitter - bit.ly/BlokHdTw...
▬
► MAIL TO:
Blockhead Moto
PO Box 18
Windermere, FL 34786
▬
BEER?
Lots of people say the channel has helped them in some way, be it the "How To" videos (mostly,) or other random videos. People are always saying they'd love to buy me a beer. I love beer. If you're one of those people, feel free to buy me a beer! :)
► Beer Me! - bit.ly/BHMPYPL
Note: Beer fund might be used towards motorcycle fund as well! (parts / maintenance / etc!)
▬
Music:
Tonez & Re-C - Kyoto: bit.ly/2o95eOL
Creative Commons - Attribution 3.0 Unported - CC BY 3.0: bit.ly/2o941XS
Music provided by Audio Library: bit.ly/2o9aKkH

[@Trickster310YT]

I have my 883. I was told I would outgrow it. I haven't, love it and I have ridden r6's and faster bikes. But I love this one very maneuverable.

[@USAx777x]

883 is a great starter bike. reliable as hell and a moders dream - (I kept mine for 2 years) you will grow tired of it in a year or two as you start to ride more and more - group rides will start to highlight the need for more power, but you have to ride within your comfort zone and let that expand naturally over time, 883 does that.

[@ripmax333]

Captain Hamsters and what exactly is pricey in the maintenance department? Oil chain is a breeze on this bike, plugs replacement super easy, valve spec inspection ? There's none. Belt drive? Apart the usual adjustment for time to time as with a chain you don't need to lubricate anything.

[@Trickster310YT]

Chris Reed I have a 883 and if in the future I needed more power I would just bore the engine out to 1200cc. I been to meets and yeah I stay behind but I get there. I know myself and I am crazy that's why I don't ride an r6 that I have. 883 keeps me in check.

[@steher]

Starter bike? Bought my 883 used for 6k and added a hammer kit for around 3k. So for 9k, I have more power than a bike going for 15k+. You can customize a Sportster more than the other Harleys as far as going from a cruising to a more aggressive style. I love people who think they are starter bikes. When you sell them, other people can buy them cheaper than new and take them to their full potential while you guys waste your money trying to impress your friends. If you get bored on a Sporty, you just dont know what you got.

[@19tank81]

How are these bikes for fat folks like me, I'm 5'7 325lbs, will this move and get me to highway speeds and maintain speeds of 65-75mph?

[@19tank81]

ultimate super savage hahaha

[@bobrowley4346]

This bike to me is a perfect addition to the collection! I've got a bigger touring cruiser and a sport bike, but this fills a gap in what I want... A small, loud, full of character and muscly bike for small blasts into/around town. Thanks for the review!

[@maximilianrockefeller8854]

EVO engine is one of the easiest engines to work on. With minimal tools you can do damn near everything. And they're damn near bullet proof engines. My 27yr old EVO softail has been a breeze to work on since day one, no issues, and still makes me smile 2+ decades later.

[@darnellrogers8884]

This bike Is so freakin nice... no way would I get rid of this...

[@peacefulwarrior4078]

Have a 09 nightster which stock displacement is a 1200 cc and to anyone thinking about a 883 do yourself a huge favor and go with the 1200 instead .the power difference isnt a big issue for anyone just starting out .so dont let the 1200 - 883 number differences scare you off from stepping up and buying the 1200 instead !!!

[@edthurber6265]

I absolutely LOVE my 2016 Iron!! It was my first bike. I love the mods you made.

[@MotoChili]

Street 750 rider here. Can't wait to upgrade to a 103 Low Rider. Love those bikes.

[@rickschultz5159]

Watching these 883 reviews since I am going to test drive a used 883 for sale. Excited to finally try a Harley. Thanks for the review.

[@PanchoMandurria]

i got my with abs in 2014 i will never get rid of it for that reason and others .i put the 1200 cc kit a year after i bought it ,did a bunch of mods i have put close to 25 000 miles never a problem .you get a windshield and you can ride for hours at very high speed i have ,been everywhere in florida down to key west, fort myers .blockhead you miss the iron

[@jepo3912]

this bike is why I want to have one, Im a car guy but man that must be an incredible ride and way to enjoy the way to work or simply enjoy the road and no necessity of going 200kmh(120mph)

[@alfredodesantiago2650]

Your channel is the best, every episode can't stop watching...the best to you and yours

[@onemeaningsome3580]

I'm not crying, *you're* crying. Glad you were able to come back and HD Orlando let you borrow it for a little wrap-up review. It's good to see and HEAR your 883 again. Man, gonna miss that sound. But - gonna love the new adventures on the FXDLS!

[@BlockheadMoto]

lol! Definitely gonna miss the Iron, but I'll definitely own another Sportster in the future. The new sound of the FXDLS incoming Monday! #BassaniSweepers!

[@onemeaningsome3580]

Looking forward to hearing the Bassani pipes, Block! Enjoy the new ride!

[@WillFurner]

Getting a 2017 with abs today!

[@SadHippieMane]

Will F sweet!

[@craigcloud2556]

Will F Getting a used one mid august.

[@jamesromero3849]

Will F getting a new 2017 today, I'm only 18

[@MrDrakeulah]

Im jealous lol

[@BlockheadMoto]

Congrats! Ride safe out there :)

[@mjdsr3100]

Blockhead. Just wanted u to know. You convinced me to start riding. And my starter is a 1200 sportster. Thanks for the inspiration. Hope to get a go pro and start moto vlogging soon

[@BlockheadMoto]

That's awesome, glad to have helped out! Ride safe out there :)

[@damianarchibald7792]

My first bike was a 1997 Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 classic. Very smooth ride and comfortable for a 21 year old bike. Did well until the fuel pump blew. Decided to go to harley davidson and my first Harley was a 2008 dyna super glide custom. Mid controls took some getting used to and was definitely more nimble than my old kawi. Still love the dyna, but the mid co trolls and the seat weren't very comfortable for long rides. After riding my dad's CVO Heritage I decided I wanted one myself and mid January I got a 2009 heritage softail with a stage one kit already installed. I look forward to seeing what it can do.

[@henrymeguess5579]

I owned a 2005 XLT 1200 Custom Sporty. I lowered the front and bought a Sundowner single up seat. That seat on the 883 is probably the worst seat I ever tried. After half an hour I was hurting. I went back to the original then bought the Sundowner. After a short time, I rode from Beaumont, Tx to Bremerton, Wa and then back. It was a great bike and comfortable not like earlier Sportys. I averaged over 700 miles a day after the 1st day. OH, I was 64 years old at the time.

[@asher6657]

there is a cruise control on your bike... it's the knob on the right handlebar near the front brake. tighten it, and the throttle will stay where you leave it. its as rudimentary as you can get. One thing i learned is to make sure its loose before i ride....

[@djohnson3678]

looking forward to the future vlogs on you're new low rider s. better to have loved , than to have never loved at all.

[@Bryantrincon413]

I will remember you, will you remember me 🎶

[@ronscott7546]

Dude I will miss the sound of that little thing but can't wait to hear the new one with the exhaust

[@dimmube]

i bought one as my second bike . ill get it on 11/08 and its the only model i loved

[@BlockheadMoto]

Congrats!

[@ghxulish]

Just me? Or is the 2013 model the nicest looking one

[@neji1496]

My first bike is the 2020 883 love it if in the future I want something faster I'll put in the 1200 kit easy

[@harrytee6486]

What's up blockhead? I've always wondered what shocks you were running on the iron? Couldn't find if you had done a 'how to" for the irons suspension. Love the low rider S btw mate

[@_d--]

I see the iron 883... and then i look my 2007 custom 883 xl. Damn they look so different. I modded mine a LOT but still...

[@Marquitopolo_]

Just bought a 2013 883 from East Orlando! Maybe see you around the streets man!

[@oregonoutback7779]

I'm surprised your Iron hasn't sold yet. Such a beautiful bike, and tons of exposure from your channel. We'll see how long it lasts. Will you be changing the name of your channel from Blockhead to S-Head? Love the LowRider-S, can't wait to hear some new pipes on it.

[@BlockheadMoto]

My videos are actually a few weeks behind when I actually film them, as I've got a lot of content recorded. It's a good problem to have. The Iron sold pretty quickly, in less than a week actually. Won't be changing the name of the channel, haha. Was founded on a Blockhead, deserves to stay the same for tribute alone! Plus... I'll own another for sure ;)

[@ryankonrad7175]

Super disappointed you traded it in. I had fun following a lot of your mods on my 2016. I got on your page to see what kind of exhaust you had on it, only to find out its gone:( Hope you enjoy your new bike tho

[@mihaelturkalj7470]

Make throtlle therapy with the low rider s.

[@BlockheadMoto]

Will do!

[@boom3863]

Awesome staff there. I’m from the UK and visited this branch 👌

[@slayer04031974]

I just bought my first Harley. What your stated at the end about customizing like the AR. If only Wilson Combat did a Iron1330 kit. I bet you would see a shit load of people not calling it a beginner bike anymore. Lol

[@Niekenn]

Maaaaan I'm diggin' this bike for a looong time! First review of this bike that I feel it's completely honest. Hope to own one of this bad babes very soon. Cheers and ride safe!

[@wg117]

I’m planning on getting one for my first bike next year finally I can’t wait

[@SharpeTrade]

Miss seeing that bike ...

[@OrbitalEccentricity28]

I’ve been eyeing this model for a long time. And I love the idea of a later conversion to a 1200. What would be a good deal on a used 883 based off price and miles? Generally, if buying a used motorcycle, should I exclude older models as options?

[@asylumvideos9358]

I have a Vrod pushing 180 rwhp w fogger naus and lots of goodies in motor and gearing, I've always liked the sporters though, especially yours, nice ride man, I want one lol

[@TonysGarage]

What's up blockhead? I really like your videos please keep them coming. You have inspired me to start my own motovlog channel. Do you have any suggestions to help me get started? Thanks and keep em coming.

[@BlockheadMoto]

Thanks for the support! Suggestions? Be yourself :)

[@kyle-d.batista3787]

Hey Blockhead,, love your content,, an Wana say I've been inlove with harley-davidson for years, an I wasn't sure on witch one to get,, keeping in mind I've never ridin a bike before, an never had one,, but I have decided to save up an get a Iron 883, why you ask,, because you have convinced me thank you,,, an I'm sure I will customize it, coz I love the Bluuh Bluuh sounds harley makes lol,, thank you blockhead for your content love it

[@mattbrown5511]

A little sad to see the Sporty go. Ride well and be happy.

[@JOHNJCLARK]

I love the lines on it.

[@hooeetube]

Interesting that you moved from the 883 to a Low Rider S.... that's exactly the path I intend to take when I get the cashola needed to make the move.

[@BlockheadMoto]

It's a Sportster on steroids ;)

[@Sycamoreguitarlessons]

What part of FL are you in? I’m doing a rider class at Orlando Harley. Thanks for the great videos. I’ve got my mind set on the 883.

[@itsmeericb]

Sick bike!

[@king_crazy_jay0154]

I like the wide glide special edition

[@tomcata1467]

So, you are moving from an Evo engine, to a Twin Cam Engine, you are going from a bolted together crankshaft on the Sportsters, to a pressed together crank on the TC, gong from gear drive on the four cams to chain drive on the TC, just know what you are losing and what you are changing to, with the TC.

[@graham4921]

I have a 13 Dyna Sport Glide that I absolutely love it is my first bike I have gotten and I’m sure I’ll pick up an Iron at some point

[@reece_bhc1056]

BLOCKHEAD you sounded like B Rye for a moment (keeping 883 forever and running it to the ground) lol

[@greg6941]

I wonder how much there gonna sell your Iron 883 for? If I lived in Florida and the price was fair, I would be interested in checking it out and possibly buying it. Especially since it looks like you took excellent care of it by watching your previous videos.

[@BlockheadMoto]

Thanks! Not sure how much they sold it for, but it sold pretty quickly

[@nathanielhuddleston9946]

I have a 19 sporty and I love it

[@glasgowharleyrider]

Hi again BH, i always saw the iron as a newer option to my 01 XLH hugger, and stay on 883cc....then i tested the street bob dyna. Oh my !

[@arkindomino]

Wasn't it hard to let her go? I was browsing at my local HD yesterday and the Low Riders (especially the S) are pretty damn awesome. I can't imagine losing my Iron 883 even if I did upgrade but would I ever ride it again? Hey Blockhead! Why are you going to get a 1200 eventually? Is it for Mrs. Blockhead?

[@BlockheadMoto]

It was hard to let her go, but I had a lot of time to think about it and weigh my options. I knew it was time for an upgrade, especially with me riding with groups more lately and going farther distances. It was time. Why a 1200 eventually? Ms. Blockhead loves the look and sound of the 48's, and I'd also be interested in doing a build series on one, maybe a 'wrecked bike rebuild' type thing like C2W did. We'll see.

[@phillipisaacson7944]

Question is, other than being "nimble", now that you've been on the Lowrider S for a bit, what, if anything are you going to miss?

[@dukebrar]

Beautiful ride bro

[@landseverywhere2155]

so fuckin beautiful , this is my dream bike. with a few custom things here and there ;)

[@olbabybeard]

Good vid. Dig the fallout please stand by thing too

[@josephmckendrick6726]

If it would’ve been me I would have kept the iron and put a big bore kit on it

[@Run4urlife13]

Joseph McKendrick same here. I got a 2016 Iron with 1,500 for a steal a couple weeks ago. No doubt I’ll keep it forever, but will eventually upgrade it to 1250. Im Sure I’ll want to get another bike, but not a sport bike like Blockhead but instead just a second Harley. No idea what, don’t care either, I love my Iron.

[@VVoltz]

Awesome video, as usual. Would you recommend the ABS version? I will be on the market for a new bike in a few months. Because ABS is only available for 2014+ models finding a used one of those seems pretty rare

[@GOMD77]

Wait, is that the Harley at I-4 Historic Factory Orlando? And you live in Windermere? No way!

[@ed3tun]

my "starter bike" was a yamaha R1, solde it after a year, bought a dyna.

[@slyguyaction]

Really dig the little Iron. You only rode it 2,500 miles in a year? Congrats on the LowRider S!

[@BlockheadMoto]

Yeah surprisingly only 2,500 miles, didn't do a lot of longer rides till I had it for a bit longer.

[@slyguyaction]

BLOCKHEAD Super excited for you with this LowRider S. Can't wait for the vlogs. Ride safe!

[@rocknrolldude567]

Hey dan, I am a big fan of your videos and was hoping you could answer a question for me. Do you think a 1200 sportster Custom is big enough for 2 people to ride? Me and my fiancé are relatively small I am 5’9” 185lb and she is 5’5” 130lb. We are young 21 and 22 and don’t need cruiser comfort to have fun but wouldn’t want to be extremely cramped. I have rode motorcycles a lot but this is the first one I will be purchasing and I am getting it at pretty much a steal.

[@kevinhogan4861]

I have no experience riding at all, I'm going to learn to ride very soon and this is the bike I want for sure. Do you think it will be too much for me to handle?

[@TheHappycoke]

Nah man even a 1200 harley wont be overwhelming. A 600 or 1200 sportbike is another story tho lol

[@lordsandreik]

havu u got a list of parts u've used to customize your 883???

[@nolenbuilds9042]

Shit man, the first video I saw of yours (which was actually right before watching this) was the "why I bought an 883" video.

[@adrianquirino]

Very nice, I wanna start with bikes with a 883, this exhaust is extreme loud? or its ok to take a ride for 1 hour per day?...thanks and awesome bike and great video !!!

[@chaumander9378]

Ive owned super sports and liter bikes..getting tired of them..might get this next..plus my back will thank me.

[@Nate10547]

Amazing Review and Award Winning bike, I know you traded it in however I intend to purchase a Harley Iron 883 and I would like the exact same setup you had can you give me a run down off all your mods please, Thanks in advance.

[@fruwaukoo]

Hello. Great viddy. I'm sorry if I'm missing this but do you have a list of all the mods you have done with part numbers or manu/model?

[@Fried_Rice32]

Is this bike still on there lot because since i been watching your channel i fell in love with this bike. Im in the process of getting my first motorcycle license and i been looking at some 883’s and if i could get this bike ERRRRMAHGAWWDDD

[@jerryfuerstenau4793]

Felt to me he sold out by getting rid of it I will always keep mine no matter what just my opinion!

[@pinknblues1]

I have just bought a 2013 iron883 and its beautiful I love it except for one thing- the shocks. The roads over in the UK are full of holes at the moment and the last two weeks on the iron has shocked my old body like bungey jumping on a piece of string. I see there are loads of after market shocks around just wondering the best direction to go here before spending a shed load of money. The front springs tend to 'bottom' on serious humps even at low speed. Do you think I should take it back to the dealer on warranty or just replace??? Any comments really apprecaited

[@theoopperman1584]

Stupid question? Is this a good bike to start riding with? No prior riding experience.

[@pikaprd]

Yes, it is :)

[@84MadHatter]

yes

[@lock514]

Nice bike but hate the handlbars

[@jonathancorres1874]

Hey block do you recommend buying new or used, i really like the new iron 1200 that they announced, this will be my first Harley if i decide to purchase one.

[@salpanahi]

Lol, you got it wrong. 110ci is bigger than 883. You should've said: 110ci > 883cc Love your videos!

[@BlockheadMoto]

Not how I meant it. It was meant as in I transitioned from the 883 TO the 110 (was supposed to be like an arrow >, not a 'greater than' sign.) Glad you enjoy the vids! :)

[@salpanahi]

BLOCKHEAD lol, now I get it. Thank you!

[@xDx0xUxGx]

Do you know of any good videos on how to clean up the factory mess between the tank and the engine?

[@mauriciohernandez6678]

Is that the 5 freeway in Orange County? The place looks familiar.

[@harleykenn4674]

Been watching your videos and you inspired me to motovlog, unfortunately don't have any content yet. But I'm really commenting to find out one thing I've been wondering since I first saw one of your videos....Gators or Seminoles fan?

[@BlockheadMoto]

Neither tbh, haha. Used to follow sports, played lots of sports growing up, but fell off as time went by. One of my brothers is a Noles fan, been to a few of their games as well. Still enjoy watching but don't invest the time and energy into it anymore. That all goes towards motorcycles now, haha

[@harleykenn4674]

BLOCKHEAD Oh I hear that! Don't watch football or any sports for that matter much anymore. I don't have cable by choice lol! Next question, when are we gonna get that face reveal?

[@19tank81]

BLOCKHEAD I always liked this bike, question for you. I'm short, 5'7, but weigh a lot, 325lbs. Will this bike be able to maintain highway speeds for me around 65-75mph? I live in Arizona, and I drive 5 hours to Vegas twice a year, it's a fun ride.

[@asessins7634]

Thank you for the video, excellent bike....

[@pinknblues1]

Great bike I have one. Rear Shocks and front springs are absolutely shit. You gotta change 'em -not cheap

[@dreammachine8838]

Sick Bike Bro

[@chefe2152]

I'm debating getting it as my first bike,Butttttttt I really love the fat bob 114,is bob too big for beginners?

[@ironcleat]

Im 5'3, I've sat on HD Iron 883 and am on my tiptoes to hold it up, are there any good lowering seats to replace the stock?

[@eastcoastbrushworks6327]

Does the 883 need a stabilizer link or a steering dampener? Have you experienced the “Harley Wobble” on this bike? Thanks

[@warriorsorb1111]

That looks to be one sweet ride. I plan to try and get one as soon as I get a motorcycle license. #HarleysforLife

[@floridapatriot9776]

So I am an experienced rider. I am coming from the world of sport bikes. Do you think this bike's performance will be disappointing? I am older now and looking for more comfort and just an around town bike or commuter to and from work. I make the occasional ride to the beach but I am in Florida so that's not too far. Thank you for your advice...

[@GHOS7v]

Did you ever end up getting the Sportster? Im in the same boat, I'm done with the sport bike scene. However idk if the Sportster will under perform for my taste

[@HarveyWotherspoon]

Very nice bike

[@BlockheadMoto]

Thank you!

[@brendanarms5915]

Im torn between getting an 883 or the newer iron 1200 for my first street bike. I just wanna know if you got any recommendations on which one to get? I would most likely only be doing city riding but will have wife on back every once awhile

[@dylang4249]

what is the best year for this bike ? the 883

[@robertgeorge1451]

What up Blockhead? Would you have any of the after market parts for the iron you might want to flip?

[@georgelinares7158]

You mentioned you posted the link to the Vans and Hinnes exhaust but it's not on the video. Can I please have the link?

[@jsdhesmith2011]

What was it about the low rider s that was so much better than the 48? I'm curious because I'm shopping for my first cruiser coming from riding sport bikes my whole life. Tired of riding hunched over and tempted by the outright speed of a sport bike, just want to cruise now and have gobs of torque.

[@Bbqtotem]

Ahh memories... :)

[@dipppincanuck]

Hey Blockhead, I know this is an old video but I was just looking for community input, I've never driven a bike before but I am 6" 4 would you get this as a first bike? I am going go be mostly cruising around town and was told a softail would be best for me thoughts?

[@twinkieangel]

How many miles can I expect to get out of an 883? Looking to maybe get a used one but I'm not sure what would be considered high miles for a bike. Any help would be great, thanks!

[@84MadHatter]

it is not about the miles but the love and care put into it, they they took good care and you take good care of it, long life it has

[@brianpayne1426]

Good day Guys. I love the Harley Davidson 883 sportser iron. Pls sponsor me with a motorcycle honestly

[@alphamikegaming5414]

I'm looking to buy a bike towards the end of the year, would this be a good bike for me and the wife to go on few drive on?

[@davids.816]

Can't let go can you?