Iron 1200 // 48 Special Comparison

[@dustinwheelen]

Love how much you fellow KZbinrs are supporting one another. Great synergy and positive for the bike/Harley community. You all have very distinct personalities and styles, so while you're covering similar topics, it isn't competitive and I take different things away from each. Looking forward to the next video, whether it has the 48 Special or not (kinda love the attitude you had about it selling/not being available, you know, fuck it!).

[@Motonewbrider]

Dustin Wheelen got it in one fella 👍

[@jamesl.4781]

I'm so glad I went with my street bob 114. I was originally looking at the 1200.

[@Supremebean303]

I miss mine. Some lady hit me a few weeks ago and I just bought it bro🥹

[@Southend_Savage]

So is the cutting off tags what the dealers charge you $100s for “set up”

[@11123DRUMMER32111]

Fully Involved Fishing NO! It’s $650.

[@striker5799]

There’s more to it than that. They have to adjust the handlebars. Attach accessories, possibly install fuses and shit, make sure it’s in riding condition, and add fuel and other liquids. Gotta pay the techs something for it, these guys get paid flat rate so they ain’t gonna do it for free

[@thegman4547]

Thanks for the video! I have the 2020 Iron 1200 in Vivid Black and love it! Only thing is at 5’11” I’m cramped up on the mids so my first mod will be forward controls.

[@BlockheadMoto]

1:47 Logo over the person in the background 😂 Good vid man, shame about the 48 Special! (ps: the Iron 1200 feels better anywho)

[@RogueAizenYubel]

BLOCKHEAD that was funny lol

[@kenh9097]

John, I like the Iron 1200 better.., like the fuel tank and smaller tire in the front! Thanks again!

[@timoftedahl956]

I actually just test rode a iron 1200 today and I gotta say I wasn't sure I'd like it but I honestly loved it. Definitely going to be buying one here soon

[@lovingmylifeasIage6741]

I'm buying an Iron 1200

[@TheHarleyTech]

Pics or it didn’t happen! Nah, for real. I wanna see ‘em when you get it!

[@robertp457]

Please buy a used one.

[@Silverbulletzx3]

I just picked up a 2019 Iron 1200 in Twisted Cherry! Love it!

[@CJKnight95]

@@Silverbulletzx3 i got the 2019 iron 1200 in july of this year and the bike is sitting at 6k miles. i bought it at 18 miles. its truly such a joy to ride! gonna take it to sturgis next year!

[@timzilko]

CJ Knight just picked up a 2020 1200 2-3 days ago. First bike, but I love that bike already. Rode it around my small town for hours yesterday

[@likemclever]

I bought the black 48 just like the one in the beginning of this video 2 weeks ago in Kansas City. I'm very excited.

[@iancampbell6191]

Sat on an Iron 1200 and a Sportster seventy two today. Definitely my favourite 2 bikes in the sportster lineup. Guess I just gave away my age haha. I am very tempted to seriously consider the Iron 1200. Cool bike for an affordable price.

[@VCorvelli]

I agree with u. I had a 76 iron head for years and I actually miss it. Dyna WG now but I miss my old sportster. Awesome vid..

[@jockeyshift4124]

I have a bone stock original correct 76 sportster for sale in black with title Atl,Ga

[@nolenbuilds9042]

Just left my local dealer. Got a new front tire put on my bike. While I was there I checked out both of those bikes and sat on them... Hands down, the iron 1200. Clean look, like a mini Dina lol. Nice feel with the seat and bars. Almost left with a new bike.

[@tonyferguson4749]

Have the 2012 1200XL and you're absolutely right everytime you twist the throttle you slide back on the seat had to get a nice mustang seat,love all your videos

[@bobbyromo69]

I would like the iron better if it had forward controls but I don’t like the small tank on the 48

[@dejonsmall9886]

John, really like your channel. My first Harley ride was on a 68 XLCH Sporty. A friend /coworker traded bikes with me { my bike was a 175 Honda CL} I've been sporting major Wood for Harley every since.

[@TheHarleyTech]

Hahaha

[@TheHarleyTech]

He said wood. I’ve never ridden an iron head sportster, I need to do that!

[@JuiceOg0311]

Love this bike just picked up the 2021 a few weeks ago. Great bike and fast

[@PowerYacht]

I got a 1200 Custom and will go for it every-time. But between the two I will go for the Iron 1200, possibly because it is more the novelty here, and also because it reminds of the Nightster which is still today a favorite Sportster of myn (especially in the silver black paint). Ah yes also the 3.3 gallon tank, which makes you ride a bit more does not it.

[@grimcaz]

Thanks for the vid im hyped my 2019 iron 1200 will be here this weekend. I'm pumped.

[@Supremebean303]

Did you upgrade or keep it?

[@2hotFL]

Iron 1200 for me if for no other reason than the larger tank. The peanut tank would drive me crazy with all the gas stops. I'd just have to add the forward controls. Nice video.

[@martinsmith9054]

I've had 3 Sportsters, 2 with twin front discs, my present bike is an XL1200R. Can't beat the extra stopping power, apart from that it would be great if they came from the factory as a 1450cc like the 88" big bore kit. Of course if they did that people would stay on a Sportster and not buy the big blocks.

[@josephandreuccetti8043]

Martin Smith The 1200 is like a scooter motor I just drove one for the weekend and I was disappointed I truly wish it was a 1450 or at least a 1275 It’s a terrible engine for over 10,000 I would buy a used one for like 3-6 No brembos, no Olin’s, no REAL performance Triumphs and Ducati’s etc are very high end vs these bikes I do admit it’s a nice looking bike

[@rmajcher]

i'd get the iron 1200 with forward controls and the rubber fork boots removed. i do like the wide front tire of the 48 but that peanut tank is too small for me.

[@bradkister79]

My first thought was yep, they brought back the 70s AMF paint scheme. But you covered that in your presentation. All in all, it looks like a fun hot rod sporty for sure

[@dstewart5292]

You pointed out the same thought that came to mind about the old AMF paint scheme. Nice vid. Enjoying the channel.

[@dadtrap]

John your right the only thing good about the AMF Years was the paint schemes. I actually had to listen to hear the bike run bit that is just typical Harley stock exhaust. Love the entire blacked out scheme

[@thornrob]

I wish the Iron 1200 came with the 883 paint schemes. Guess it's on to an 883 with the 1200 kit...

[@bratz2]

Exactly!

[@digestedpigeon8922]

Buy the 1200 and buy a 883 tank

[@MONKEYWASH]

Spent my Sunday binge watching your channel, good find!

[@TheBurgl]

I waiting of my Forty Eight Spezial. I had more than 25 Bikes, thats my first Harley and the last Bike in my life. I love it!

[@GsxrGrl21]

I have no idea why I'm now just finding your channel..BUT I subbed. Great content,and you have a job I wish I could do! Look forward to seeing more vids from you

[@splodge57]

Keeping my 2001 Sportster 1200S. The Iron out of these but why do the pegs stick out so far? No ground clearance issue on the old model.

[@Chevyv8man1]

I like the Iron 1200. The extra power is awesome, and being a larger man I need it. Also the extra gas, and higher bars are nice, also the larger front wheels gives you a much better ride. I would have to put on forward controls thou. Later

[@zacharyfett2491]

I love the old school paint on these. I miss my Nightster.

[@gerryskiff9135]

I retired my 650cc BSA lightning in 1986 for an 883 Sportster buy for$ 3,995and trade up within 2-3 years and get $3995 for a trade in, between the new Evo and that marketing strategy catapulted H. D to what it is today I own a 07 Dyna now and will continue to ride Harleys till death do us part thanks for All the efforts H.D

[@twowheeledanimal4805]

I'd have to go with the 48. I like the fat tire and that tank spine thing. The extra paint there just kinda makes it pop for me.

[@thatguy12b4life4]

Was gonna get the iron. 1200 but the dealership near me only had a white one with abs an security system didn't want all that plus found a used 2012 nightster in good shape that I liked and easier on the budget great video

[@SnuggleBear1970]

I like the blue.

[@timothyohara6256]

My first bike was a Honda shadow. I traded it when I graduated towards a truck. Had I gotten a sportster (I have one now), I would have kept it. Love the sportster. With upgrades and a tune (2015 1200 custom) it rips! I also have a 2017 road king, and it's great. But I'll never sell my sportster. It's going to my son one day.

[@nery_romero_3471]

I Got me a 2020 Iron 1200 super dope!!! Love everything about it, bought it on October 31st put 1,500 miles on her so far 🤘🏽🤘🏽

[@TattooedAlex70]

I had a Forty Eight before my Slim and it was a fun bike but I would recommend the 1200 Iron over the Forty Eight Special due to the smaller tank. The 2.1 tank was ok for in town riding, but got to be old when I ventured out further. The chrome on the Forty Eight Special also seems to get away from the whole dark custom theme. Fun informative video as always.

[@bikerjoepeelrider149]

I’m liking the 1200 iron over the 48 special too. I like the all blacked out look of the the whole bike. Nice vid hopefully this will be my next bike in the near future.

[@jtkrpm1]

dont know if I like the bars on the iron. I prefer mid controls so defnetly the Iron. I kinda miss my Sportster, I have a Sport Glide now. in many ways the Sportster was a better bike. Simple, lighter, smaller, mine had mid controls so was better for me. I also Cost half the price.

[@seventysanchez8659]

I work for Dallas Harley Davidson and i sold the iron 1200 and felt the same ways as you did @ 8:55 lol

[@masonowen839]

I have a iron 1200, with exhaust and all the normal Johnny’s. Only complaint I have is around 75-80 it starts to get a wobble. Not a fan of that but it’s fun overall

[@NP-rh3dt]

What a gorgeous bike, personally i would have preferred a chrome engine block and pipes, but the black works too

[@jlc904ubc]

Another great video! I agree, I like the tank paint as well. Thanks

[@zero61288]

Iron 1200 for sure! Oh and I finally got my 2017 1200 custom fixed from the front end hopping. It was the front tire causing the problem. Had the shop put Michelin commander 2’s on front and rear. Rides very smooth now

[@TheHarleyTech]

Glad they got it figured out! I’ve replaced quite a bit of tires over the last few months because of that!

[@zero61288]

That’s crazy. Harley should really think about changing the tires they use. I’ve noticed a lot of them have the scorcher 31 tires

[@TheHarleyTech]

the tires come from outside distributors, and you can't tell if it's out of round until it's on the balancer. it's definitely a quality control issue, but more on the tire manufacture than HD

[@zero61288]

I agree. I don’t blame HD for the tire being “bad”. I think they should consider putting a different Michelin on new bikes or even use a different brand. I just wish the dealerships I took my bike to would have diagnosed my issue a lot sooner. It took 4 months of dealing with them to finally take it to the independent shop to get it diagnosed and fixed

[@The10man81]

I picked an 883XL custom for my first bike. As you said being cautious. Big enough I can ride with my friends but small enough to help keep me smart (I hope lol) I just can’t bring myself to like the peanut tank. Especially on the 48 the frame between the seat and tank looks tacky to me. I had planned to move up to a Dyna in a couple years, but obviously gonna have to rethink my plans. Maybe a Street Bob based on this year’s class.

[@patrickjosephtobin8014]

I really like these going test ride at some point. tanks a bit small.

[@TheTbyrd85]

Been watching your videos for awhile and subscribed love all your videos and I just got a 2019 1200 iron in the twisted cherry and absolutely digging the bike keep up the great videos

[@GreyHarleyDood]

Just bought a 2018 white 1200N it was a screaming price with 1500 miles.. so happy!

[@motovloggingwithvman2188]

Iron 1200! Although I like the 883 paint!

[@filoIII]

LOVE that blue Iron.

[@rhysfox5480]

Yeah, I dig the throwback fade on the tanK

[@bartphillips6391]

I have a 15 Ultra Limited and love it!! Would love get a 1200 to run around in. But are beautiful bikes!!

[@williambenton9848]

I think they should had made an additional iron 1200 w the 883 paint and badging

[@cowdudeable]

John, May I ask how tall you are? I am 5'11" and when I sit on a Sportster or Dyna with mid controls, my legs are bent nearly double. Do you find this comfortable for any length of time? I assume that you know how expensive it is to put forward controls on a Dyna? Why can't Harley build motorcycles for full sized people?

[@KnuckleUpFightClub]

Don't you love it when a plain comes together.... nice job

[@mikeessary7691]

Great job as always John. I like the community and the cool factor of block and the other guys. You all sticking together to increase motorcycle knowledge products, safety ect. Stay cool bro.

[@TheHarleyTech]

Thanks man!

[@chrisphilhower6029]

I got the Custom 1200. Thanks to the Winter that doesn't seem to want to leave (NJ) I Finally hit 240 Miles in one month of ownership. She's Peppy. Disappointed our Lord, Decided to mount the Rear Turn Signals where they did. Rear seat and Pegs, 4.5G gas tank. Made for cruising. Waiting to have my Chapel install the Relocate kit. Eventually Bags and a Windshield. Thinking about getting some better SO mufflers. Possibly a Cobra with black race tips. Or a Magnaflow. Something to go with the Black and Chrome on my Black Tempest unit.

[@kenh9097]

I just traded my 2014 RK for a new RG Ultra, but still love my Sportster! Thanks John!

[@cjsmith]

My wife just got one, loves it! Hard bike to find and buy. Most sold before they land. 🇺🇸😎

[@revman3917]

Hey man just graduated from MMI Phoenix not too long ago, still working on getting on at a harley dealer close to home. Love the vids man

[@TheHarleyTech]

Congrats on finishing the course. How many places have you applied?

[@cowboymusicstudio4911]

you might think about placing some runner blocks under the tires to get off the crate, sounded like you knocked a lots holes in the bottom of the 48.

[@filoIII]

The 2 1200 Sporties I had both had a tach and speedo.

[@walterparada1530]

I'd love to have a brand new iron 1200 that looks like an iron 883. Love the blacked out look of the 883 hate the blue paint on the 1200 tank.

[@QuadeQuick]

Entertaining as usual, JM! Looking at an Iron 1200 for my awesome wife... I think she wants a change of pace from 2 up on the '17 RGS. I might even be able to throw on my solo seat!

[@DuceD2]

Still using your ASR glasses! I would love to get a pair soon.

[@TheHarleyTech]

I love ‘em. I was serious. Best shades ever!

[@gk6305]

Really liking the Iron 1200. Needs s better exhaust. I would change the front turn signal to a lower position closer to the headlight. Maybe take off the front light fearing and do something with the rear turn signals/brake lights. Keep the videos coming.

[@ThatBobGuy850]

Great video, John! Love your creativity in making these things. So...it is not true that all motorcyclists want more and more power. I'm on my third Sportster, all 883's and the power has been totally sufficient for the type of riding I do. I can count the times on one hand that I've *needed* to use full throttle. (Of course, I'm single and I always ride alone. So there's that.) It is also not true that all Harley riders want louder pipes. Me, I like a quiet motorcycle. To each his own...

[@kevinsmith8328]

I like to hear my engine, instead of exhaust.

[@kevinflanagan5537]

Ran across your vids,great stuff man!! I live in Columbus as well, im on the hunt for a wide glide. I'll be seeing you when it comes service time!

[@ezpiperlcfl4283]

EzpiperLCFL sez and I forgot. The factory fork-boots are a must!

[@loudubbs22]

@ 2:33 did you purchase those from Nickle Town Customs? Be careful they could cut the whole bike in half

[@nolenbuilds9042]

Loudubbs22 Nice... Not sure anyone else got that reference.

[@scottrubie6826]

Iron1200 considering getting one myself.

[@Stormtrooper-iy5ld]

Love the paint! They should make a street glide with that paint scheme too

[@exile730]

great job, John Maxwell! Looking forward to your next video. Keep them coming guy.

[@HARMARSCH2]

The stripes are from the old AMF Harley Davidson days.

[@doylee469]

HARMARSCH2 yes except amf used different colors

[@whatyoumakeofit6635]

I have a blue tank with the blue amf stripes in my bedroom. Came off my 70 something 250 harley i had back in the 80's. Tore the bike down cuz it spun a main bearing. Was going to over jaul thr whole bike. Someone stole the bike from my back yard. The tank happened to be in the house at the time. So its the only thing i have left from it.

[@doylee469]

Bryan Keith friggin cool man, with a crazy story behind it

[@franmitch3589]

Hopefully these run better than the AMF days

[@Roadghost88]

LOL. That was back when HD was the most stolen bike. I think the best thing about those bikes was the paint, and the way they looked. I like the new AMF style paint too. Harley always great on nostalgia.

[@floridapatriot9776]

I'm searching a good comparison video. Maybe you've done the 48 by now. I'm curious how the 48's larger forks compare with the 1200's smaller ones. Performance wise

[@antoniogranillo1458]

The nostalgic paint is very AMF style, but they're cool looking!

[@nickratliff9448]

Do a breakout and dyna lowrider s comparison. I have a limited anniversary breakout that i love,but im getting ready to find a road king police or electra glide since my style of riding is changing

[@uhoh_6.031]

He’ll yeah bro love the vids just got a 14 wide glide how come they don’t make them anymore

[@djohnson3678]

it changed like the dyna did... here is what it changed to : 2018 ROAD GLIDE® SPECIAL Blacked-out and loaded with premium features. Fire up the thrill-inducing Milwaukee-Eight® 107 V-Twin engine and you’re in for one hell of a ride.

[@Kyle-ue5uj]

I am convinced these are similar to the dyna low rider s in that they are basically the last "new" sportsters using a bunch of hd accessories and in the next 2 years the sporty line as we know it will be gone. Replaced hopefully with a new fxr and maybe a mini M8 or some other new motor in-between the street and the current 107

[@TheHarleyTech]

We’ve been talking around the shop about a mini M8. I would rather see a VRod version revolution engine in the XL style look. Give the Scouts a run for their money.

[@slyguyaction]

They’re both great. My pic is for the 48 Special!

[@joetroutt7425]

The iron seats are hard as a rock. I have a pan solo seat on barrel springs and I can't tell the difference.

[@ronhamilton515]

I like the iron but I rode a Indian scout bobber and that thing hauls so I’m going to test ride the iron and see how they compare

[@TheHarleyTech]

I wanna ride a scout for sure. No dealers in my town, though.

[@HJ-sn5gt]

Iron 1200: Throwback fun bike! 48 is good but that tank is around town only!

[@chadmartin6334]

Digging the 48 Special!! Blockhead is a good dude! Much respect for technicians!Always look forward to your videos!!

[@aldonova1112]

You do a great job on the videos also good laughs.I like the look of the 48. Agree about the paint on the Iron

[@MarkosEvans]

Another great review. I'm really enjoying watching your channel. Well done :)

[@Gunluver1]

love the editing skills. Your vids are great dude

[@TheHarleyTech]

Thanks man

[@krazysj]

John thank you for the great content you post. I have a question, I currently own 2017 roadster 1200 and I am looking to do some 2 up riding. Which sissy bar would you recommend? I would really appreciate it. Thanks

[@joewyman2235]

John maxwell I really enjoy your work and do look forward the new videos I wish I could afford a barn full of bikes one for each different ride the best I can do is one and for me it’s the road glide for my wife it’s the street glide so when you review models I get to see and hear others thank you for your style and keep up the great work and make time for the kids cause they won’t be kids long

[@ripmax333]

Iron 1200 is really nice , if it was mine i would only change the handle bars with standard ones from an 883.

[@christophermejia7746]

I prefer iron 1200 with a 4.7 gal tank!! I just want to have some range you know!!! I know it sounds 3x crazy but is there a 5 gal option!!! 😂

[@LOLewie]

hey love your channel. kind of unrelated question. But I have a 16 883. What do you think the labor time should be to install a SE stage IV kit with cams? just trying not to get screwed.

[@fatratz2012]

I've mentioned before I just got my first harley a 2008 nightster custom I'm a little confused on oil changes some stuff I've seen says 20w50 full syn in all areas other stuff I see says the primary and clutch uses something different whats the scoop on nightster oil changes?

[@anthonyrizzuto4204]

Hey John, love your videos. I just got an Iron 1200 and was wondering what were your thoughts on the stage 4 kit. Is it worth it?

[@hurttech7593]

Check out the kits from Hammer Performance. Better pricing and more power.

[@krazydogg82]

Another great video John. Keep 'em comin!!

[@antoniogranillo1458]

Also, great job on the camera magic!

[@TheHarleyTech]

Thanks buddy.

[@1whoFartsinthewind]

Nice except for the paint on the tank,but thats just my opinion

[@tungstenkraken2929]

Please do a video on the 48 special too!

[@recontiger7114]

The pegs are no joke. I shinned myself so many times on my 883 Iron.