Can't Keep Up? Sportster Iron 883 Review, Ride, Commute, Freeway Cruising, Harley Davidson XL883N

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Would you commute on the Sporty 883?

[@franco804]

I used mine to commute to work for a while. It was my first motorcycle back in 2011. Cool bike, but I wasn't a big fan on the freeway at speeds above 65mph.

[@Paul20661]

I think I do between 20 to 30 min from home to work,would be perfect

[@FXFBS540]

Commuted 60mi a day between home work and college on a 04 883c for 10 years. Holds 75-80 no problem, only started feeling wound out around 100-110. Im 6ft 4in, 200lbs.

[@bryanfrederick6384]

Hey if its all I had or if it was the bike I really wanted . I'd ride the stew outta that sucker We We weee 😎

[@joetroutt7425]

I have never ridden an 883 but I have a 1200 custom that I bobbed out with 18" apes. The wind hitting my chest is intense at 90 plus. The curves are sketchy as hell but I love that bike. I ride the hell out of it. I also have an 05 electraglide (unofficial Streetglide) and that's my highway bike. I treat them both equally. I ride one for awhile and then ride the other for awhile. To answer your question; if it's all I had, hell yeah!

[@mattf5630]

I've heard people say its alot more fun riding a slow bike fast, than riding a fast bike slow. Truth!

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Definitely some truth there!

[@johnengland8619]

No its not. Thats like saying i like useing a dull knife

[@robitusin4645]

@@johnengland8619 You probably have not ridden a bike.

[@johnengland8619]

@@robitusin4645 i have been riding 30+years. I ride a honda vfr800 now. I ride for performance, reliability and what i call quality per dollar ratio.

[@blaisejmaf17]

Well that's such a great saying I'm going to use that from now my man

[@asherparkinson4408]

Harley has been making Sportster since 1957 last of the best .It covers all the bases. Not a chick bike, only guys that have short comings say that. Been riding lot of years . Fast and agile ,tough and dependable

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Well said, brotha!

[@hulkhatepunybanner]

*And you can spin it on it's kickstand so it's always pointing in the right direction when the garage door goes up.*

[@irishjoe5868]

Only morons that overpaid for big Harley's try to put guys down by saying the Sporty is a chicks bike. The fact is that Sporty's are the best bikes Harley makes. If it wasn't for the Sportster line, HD would be out of business.

[@raymondphaff2739]

Good beginner bikes to I love my little sporty chop and believe me it can keep up

[@lyndongeer6627]

Very correct. It's a great motorcycle. I've had 883s Evo softails, twin cam dynas, big inch jap cruisers, but the sporty is my fav tovride

[@GoGoggansGo]

I fucking hate Harley, but the sportster is a great small bike and they sound the best even with slip ons

[@GoGoggansGo]

raymond phaff you’re not keeping up with anything lol that’s one bad thing about the sportster they won’t put any money into the Evo, and it needs to happen

[@colombiacub]

TRUE!

[@samuelf8879]

I don’t know why people think an 883 would have a hard time in the freeway. I live in Cali and commuted with a freaking 89 rebel 250 when I was learning to ride.

[@abrahamolvera2438]

It's a good motorcycle?

[@stevenhenderson1198]

Bro, I used to chance my life every day on my way to school thrashing my old Honda ZR250 Tornado on the highway. Freezing cold on winter, warming my hands on the exhaust.

[@GarthB-t5e]

I just ripped a sportster from Medina Ohio (just beyond Akron) to outside of Pittsburgh where I live. No problems at all. Hell I opened her up to see what it could do and EASILY got to 100+ no sweat at all. 👍🏻🤟🏼🤙🏻

[@GarthB-t5e]

​@@stevenhenderson1198haha epic brother 💪🏻🤙🏻

[@ChaohsiangChen]

Commute on an 883? Sure why not. Better than commuting in a Sienna.

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Hahaha! The sienna is my alternate commuter. Lol.

[@billkussmaul2940]

@@JonsMotoGarage mine too

[@JonsMotoGarage]

@@billkussmaul2940 SIENNA SQUAD!

[@criscutfry]

Charlie Chan lul same! 1998 sienna with no a/c though. Its hell in summer, here in Cali. Im wanting one of these 883’s they’re sexy in their all black look.

[@coreytravisbean]

Anyone who says a sportster is a girls bike is not confident in their masculinity.

[@GarthB-t5e]

100% PREACH. Also, why would you wanna drive newcomers to the motorcycle community away? Like that's all I could afford and I LOVE my sportster. Matter of fact, let someone come tell me it's a girls bike to my face, and I might leave ya with a change of opinion, and a hospital bill.

[@em1ownerify]

⁠@@GarthB-t5ehow is it a girls bike??

[@balenciimusic]

@@em1ownerifyhe’s saying it isn’t bro

[@BigCountryASF]

A bike is a bike don’t matter what it is

[@Danny.1110]

Probably just because of the size of the bike. As it is smaller and suited for shorter peoples.

[@fredman1085]

I put 40,000 miles on my 81 Yamaha XS400SG in four years. Commutes to work and school, mountain rides, local shopping trips, long day fun rides, multiple day trips with a sleeping bag strapped to the back of the seat. I think people who think an 883 is too small don't have perspective.

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Great point! My drz400sm is the second smallest, yet arguably funnest bike in the garage.

[@WhyTrollThem]

I have an 81 XS400 also that i bought for my sister to learn on and i am never left dissatisfied riding it

[@brendanmartin4489]

Man I've said this time and time again. If you can't look back at the motorcycle you have while you're walking away doing god-knows-what and admire it you bought the wrong bike

[@k9is2sick]

Perfectly said

[@johnjacob688]

I commuted on an 05 883 for 10+ years. I bought it brand new when I was 21, it was my first bike. I had no problem riding long distances even with down turned drag bars, lowered, and with forward controls. Loved that bike.

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Heck yeah! That's awesome! I think the problem for me is that the older I get, the more spoiled/baby-ish I become. Lol. Some of my longest rides were done on my honda shadow 600.

[@abrahamolvera2438]

So it's a good motorcycle?

[@jamesellis5549]

I am with you on Sportys;I think the best Harleys made.They handle decent and I will take a Sporty on a mountain road to any other bike they make.

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Heck yeah! Awesome bikes imo!

[@tribecop]

Over the last 48 years, I have owned both Sportsters and Big Twins, and love them both. Nothing wrong with owning both.

[@ZackFirstPerson]

I bought my iron new in 2019. I've put 2500 miles on it in almost any circumstance you can think of. Now I have a stage 1 kit on it and I'm looking at the 1275 hammer to add more power. Love my bike and I plan on keeping it for a long long time. Thanks for a great review.

[@MikeKollin]

What is a stage 1 Kit? Does it give it more horsepower? Thanks!

[@lothegreat1788]

@@MikeKollin it’s probably air cleaner and exhaust

[@boomerguy9935]

Love my 2005 XL883 Sporty standard with mid-controls. It's perfect for the mountain twisties and the country roads. It can handle the interstate alright but I hate the interstate on any bike, so it's a moot point for me. It's a SPORTster, after all. If I wanted a bigger bike, I would get an EVO 80 (1340cc) Softail, but I don't have the need. I'm happy with what I want. All of my mods are internal for reliability and longevity. You gave a good review here.

[@pre8664]

I'd bounce around on a sporty any day! Highway or street sportys are an awesome bike you can whip around and really get on

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Heck yeah! I always have a blast on the sporty! 883 or 1200!

[@flyingdog1498]

@@JonsMotoGarage Absolute slime ball pigs.

[@rogerpowell636]

As you said, you can make the bike what you want it to be. I made mine so I could ride it on long trips, and I love it. Going 75 MPH for about 150 miles and there were no problems,,great bike,,had mine for about 8 years now.

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Nice! Sportsters are awesome!

[@juliomurillo1543]

75 mph what's wrong whit you I know the bike can do 110 115 I don't get it push the bike guive it all it got

[@Cheaps928]

Do you have a fairing on it? If so, what kind?

[@rogerpowell636]

@@Cheaps928 No I have a windshield Moved the bars back toward me 2 inches and forward controls plus a pillow seat.

[@Cheaps928]

@@rogerpowell636 damn, interesting! I’ve been into bikes so much for about 5-6 years now and still saving up to get one hopefully by the end of this year if everything goes as planned, if not, by next year forsure. Sportsters and dynas are my favorite but im forsure going to start on a iron 883 like everyone else. But since it’ll be my main transportation im def going to be traving a lot and on long trips every month or so, and im looking on what I should get on the bike. Whats the difference between having a windshield and afairing? Can i see a pic of your bike on social media or something?

[@billpalmisano]

My first street bike was a 77 XLH. It was a 1000. I bought it in the late 80s and rode it all through the 90s. I rode it in Laconia many times, trailered it to Daytona, and it gave me many miles of pleasure. It was electric start so that was great. I sold it for three times what I paid for it in the 2000s and bought a 78 FXE. I don't ride much anymore I just putter around town but I loved my Sporty.

[@rhinely850]

Been riding over 50 years, on hundreds of bikes, and IMHO the Sportster is the best all around bike ever. For me, I can't handle floorboards of big twins and prefer mid control pegs. Miss my Buells.

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Nice! Yeah, the sportsters are awesome bikes for sure!

[@mike-gv2ol]

You got rid of a buell? I’m sorry for your loss. I’m giving 1125 and uly to my kids when I’m gone.

[@james44mag31]

​@@mike-gv2ol missed a uly the other day for 2500

[@realist-2024]

There is a reason they have been making them since the fifties...KILLER BIKES!...I have three harleys and I spend more time on my sporty than the other two combined...enjoyed the video ✌

[@jamessouthworth1699]

My buddy has an 883 Iron and it it cruises next to my Dyna at 80-90 mph no problem. I had an 883 standard that i used to tour on, pulling a trailer behind it and it had no problem going through the mountains at 70+ as long as I let it breathe. You have to downshift these engines and let them rev. If you are coming off a big twin with the low end torque and never having to shift, of course they feel weak. But an 883 WILL GO if you let it rev and use your gears.

[@Bcharns]

My first bike when I was 17 was a 1983 Honda 450 night Hawk that I bought when I graduated in 1986. My second bike I bought brand new in 1990 was a CBR 600, loved that bike. Then in 2004 I bought a Harley Davidson night train, love that bike also. But the kind of rider I am, if you drove past me on a moped you would still get a wave. People need to grow up and realize that anyone who rides a motorcycle is in one way or another a motorcycle enthusiast. Just enjoy the ride.

[@davidBarrel]

I owned a 1989 cbr 600 also, what a bike, unforgetable. I even ended in a tv program with it.

[@rolexgonzales4552]

My Iron 2018 is my daily ride to work. The great sound and the easy ride is relaxing and even therapeutic. its not as flickable as my Duc ScramblerIcon but its flickable enough to dodge the hellish traffic traffic here in the rural Philippines

[@wickid3616]

I love the sporty. I have had friends say it is a girls bike. well tell you what, I seen a big girl on a road king. so now, road kings are girls bikes. Harley boys have always had EGO issues.

[@jeremybrocknblue5593]

I think Harley riders are Harley Davidsons worst enemy.

[@benkrom2737]

Sportster is the original chopper. Chopper , meant to cut options off the bike to make it lighter to race. The original XLCH meant Extra Lean Competition Hot. Gear shift was originally on the right side of bike which gave the ability for shifting in turns in circle track racing giving it an advantage over other bikes. Evil knievel jumped on sportsters. They brag about the twin cam evolution motor, the sportster has had 4 cams since 1955. I was designed for racing hence the XL in the VIN. and it's name Sportster.

[@marioc.4584]

I've done some decent sized road trips and rip my Iron Lady around town like a wild goon and shes a total joy. I've been told from some older riding buddies of mine that these sportys are built like tanks and the Evo motor is pretty bulletproof.. and man they are right. I've done some riding that had me question if I was gonna bust something and have been a little poor on maintenance at times, but she WILL run lol. But when riding with bigger bikes (Low Riders and Street Glides, etc.) its wound out and on its last breath, while they're just taking a walk through the park.. Go Figure, right? Bigger bikes, More leg room. But that's where the cons end for me. I'm able to chug along on my daily commutes, go city-hoppin' and much less "bar hopping," As well as carrying the occasional passenger for some added fun. The Iron is definitely a bike that has earned its place in my heart and soul. And my trust. I'll run this machine till the wheels fall off, but i think I'll start to break apart before that time comes. Good Vid, Brother! Ride 'em like you stole 'em! Got my subscription.

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Heck yeah! The sporty is such an iconic and fun bike! I'll always have room for one in my garage! Lol. Thanks for watching!

[@planetx5269]

I love how my 06 883 looks and sounds l. I am 5 foot 11 and like how I sit down in it. I really like the belt drive too. I even like my carburator, it simpler. My is the last year for the carb. These are such cool bikes.

[@GiancarloFloyd]

I have a deep appreciation of the sportie My mom and dad both started on sporties and it was my first bike too. I wall always recommend one for a first bike.

[@thebrain7065]

An Army veteran buddy of mine purchased a 2019 Iron 883. Put a set of drag bars, "Vance and Hines" Short Shot pipes, a tuner, "Heinz" Nano LED indicators a "Day Maker" LED head light and a "Screaming Eagle" intake. Not only is it fast, but looks bad ass to say the least. If you're a larger fella or gal 250lbs+.....yeah it's gonna a bit rough for ya. Happy riding folks!

[@cheatdeathproc]

I've had many different model Harley's. I'm pretty tall so I can't comfortably ride any bike so I mainly stick to the tourers. But I agree with you. The 883 is one of the best looking bikes Harley makes. It is a very cool bike.

[@copelandjohnson9522]

About how tall?

[@thomasbarnardjr9657]

I really like your content. And when it comes to the sportster, it's a bike that I really love. I currently have 2. One's a 2003 xlh with mild customization, and it's such a fun bike to ride, and the other is my 1988 883 with a buell xb12 conversion with xb9 pistons. This little bike was a factory 883 that got totaled when I got hit by a horse trailer that broke loose at the bumper hitch, had no safety chains, and come flying into my lane hitting the rear swingarm right behind my leg. About 45 minutes to an hour after the accident happened, we checked the engine on the side of the road, and it still ran, so I made a deal with the gentleman who owned the trailer, and settled for cash, and loaded the bike on a friend's trailer, took it to his shop, and basically used it to build what I have now. It's the original 883 on a Pauchgo rigid frame with 35° rake, no stretch, and the factory front forks, with the 19" front wheel. The front wheel is a black 9 spoke mag with the polished relief cuts, a chrome dish rear mag, a Chica ribbed rear fender, and a Cole Foster gas tank. The first rendition of the bike had the factory engine with an S&S super E shorty carb, and custom exotic choppers fuelies exhaust, with the dyna s dual fire exhaust. Unfortunately the front cylinder predetinated, blowing the front piston and grenaded the engine. Luckily the bottom end was undamaged, and after flushing the cases, checking the bearings and seals, I was able to look into fixing the engine. The build it is becoming is Sportster 883/ Buell xb conversion that has .500 lift Andrews cams and 4140 chromoly adjustable pushrods, Jims roller rockers, accel 35496 adjustable ignition, and stealth super coils, and 12:1 compression, with the same S&S carb, and exhaust. This is insane power for the 4 speed transmission, and won't have too much more top end, but this bike's gonna be an absolute rocket on the low end, a blast to toy with. I've had a lot of bikes, and this one still to this day is by far my favorite! These bikes are the best blank canvas motorcycles made. That's for sure. And on another note, for anyone who thinks small bikes can't be fun, find the bike that fits your style, do some research, and you can almost always find ways to make it better. I had an 07 Vstar 650 classic, j-slammed with a some carb and breather work that was an absolute blast to ride! Anything can be cool with a little bit of time and effort. Buy what you like, make it your own, and forget about the comments of the haters. Your bike should fit your personality and your attitude. If it accomplishes that, then you have a winner. Like I said, great content!!! Keep it up!

[@joshuasalazar1527]

I have a 15 883 and so far I’ve taken off the exhaust tips for for output and obviously the raw sound, and just by doing that I have just a little more power and I have no complaints on the bike at all other than people with bigger bikes make fun of me. I could care less because I paid for it myself and it’s mine. Hard work pays off and I rode it proudly

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Heck yeah! The sporties are awesome!

[@mikeogden5256]

I’ve owned every type of Harley and the 883 has been among My favorites…

[@mikeogden5256]

Stock 883 is 100% capable

[@roosterj2599]

If you look back to 1970-80 the Sportster was extremely poplar and made into some of the best choppers and bobbers on the road. Cheap and easy to work on. Stroking them was popular and putting Shovel or Pan heads on a Sportster lower was popular for a while. The Sportster is a phenominal bike.

[@tribecop]

I remember the Shovesters. Great engine modification.

[@dipndaVic]

Yeah heavily modifying! wonder what other turds can become sweet if you highly change their offered package. Everything.

[@zoranfrintrop-unger4801]

I wanted a Sportster and i got a Sportster . I love my Sportster!

[@JonsMotoGarage]

NICE! Yeah, the sportsters are awesome bikes for sure! Thanks for watching!

[@zoranfrintrop-unger4801]

Jon's Moto Garage thanks für the chanal Bro

[@allantetreault5312]

Same here. Love mine!

[@TachySteve]

I own a turbo hayabusa and I just picked up an 883. Every bike has a use case, it’s not about speed but the spirit of the ride.

[@MrAtlas-sg7yc]

I’m saving up for this so it could be my first bike. I really want a car but come on look at this thing. Got to work my ass off for the things I want

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Heck yeah! It's an awesome bike! If possible, try to find a pre-owned one with low miles. That way you save all the dealer fees, taxes, etc. Good luck, brotha!

[@stevechristiansen9037]

Good for you Mr atlas I worked my ads off for my first bike in a 95 degree machine shop sweating bullets making peanuts and that is why I will never sell my 98 sportster 1200

[@tommyboy1986]

I just bought one and rip it around town, it's so fuckin fun I just want to ride all day. also I think it's the best looking bike harley makes so that's a bonus.

[@philkwon81]

Just for reference, I bought a 2010 iron 883 here in Michigan for $4300 (less than 7k miles) in May of 2019. I don't know what your budget is, but it's a really accessible bike. I have to say, that's it's so much fun to ride and work on. There are a ton of after-market parts for these bikes. Have fun with it.

[@axelpteeg]

And you'll only appreciate it even more when you get it !! .i got mine for £5000 second hand with 4000miles on the clock and i LOVE it . the sound , the look, the handling . best bike i've ever owned (been riding since 1996). enjoy bro and ride safe.

[@SpaceLobster420]

The first cruiser i ever rode was a 2010 Iron 883 and it directly resulted in my buying a Yamaha Roadliner S

[@CreedComander]

If i had the money I'd buy another iron sporty in a heartbeat. They are solid and dont care if they are ridden hard.

[@gogisrobledo7030]

Bro, this was my first bike, I got a 2015 Iron 883. I got so many people telling me different things, I had a bunch of buddies that rode Softails and baggers but I kept up with them every single time. I did a little work to the engine and did a lot of custom things to it but nothing major and I am 210 lbs, I recently upgraded and got the bike on my dreams which is a Road King and let me tell you, I miss my Sportster so much! I love my Road King it is My dream bike, but I miss my Sportster so much that was my baby! I put 70,000 miles on that bike and it was still running like a champ! My opinion and what I tell people Being that I have experience with a Sportster and a bagger, get whatever you want and fuck what anybody says! Let them call it a chick bike, most people that call it a chick bike don't even have a bike, get this bike if you like it and be proud of it. It is a Harley-Davidson and that's all that matters! It will take you and a girl on a ride every single time and you can hit high speed on the freeway, trust me I did it!

[@heithwatkins]

I love the IRON 883. It looks and sounds fantastic. It's fast enough to get you killed. It's reasonably priced. ....What else do you need.

[@johnengland8619]

A honda interceptor 800. More power, more comfortable, better range, liquid cooled, V4, 16 valves, dual overhead cams. Almost no vibration

[@johnengland8619]

@@outtahereboi5276 i dont need (the look) or any attention when i ride. Beat it

[@alanwestover2]

Jon absolutely love you r take on riding. Motorcycle riding is just that, it's the 2 wheels rolling, wind blowing by, rebellious freedom you just don't get with 4 wheels. My first bike was a 1972 Honda CB175 that I rode for about 6 months around my junior year of high school. My second bike was a 1985 Yamaha 650 special which i rode until the summer before my senior year of high school which saw me on a 1986 Honda VFR700 Interceptor. Throughout my many years of riding I've ridden small bikes, big bikes, touring bikes, cruisers, sport bikes, duel purpose and I've enjoyed everyone of them. There is no one bike fits all and don't ever let anyone tell you any different. You get what you want and enjoy the crap out of it and let the wind rushing by silence those who are so miserable in their own lives that they lash out at others in an attempt to make themselves feel better or superior.

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Heck yeah! Couldn't of said it any better myself! I appreciate the positive comment and support! Thanks, brotha!

[@johncerro7486]

Harley sportster in the 60s was the king of the road in them days hard bike to beat

[@schwag3830]

Love my 2017 Iron 883 don’t care what the haters say let them hate as i ride by. I’ve rode this bike for two years straight through all four seasons and she’s still going strong she’s bullet proof I tell ya! I live in New York so you can get an idea of how much of a trooper this bike is. I definitely will be getting the stage two and making it into a 1200 tho for sure. Keep up the good work brother ride on! ✊🏽

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Well said!Thanks, bro!

[@droflic]

2017 Iron 883 2 years and love it more every day!! Kinda feel like i ran out of mods to do to it, besides 1200 kit & a fender chop..

[@ambu6478]

I just bought a used Street Rod 750 with 340 miles on it and so far I love this bike! So much power and so smooth!

[@JonsMotoGarage]

I've yet to ride that bike but I've seen some super rad builds with it. Congrats on the new bike! Ride safe!

[@Gawsef]

My friend Kevin has a 883 sportster, got it brand new in 2013. He just went over 100 thousand miles. It can be done!😎 2wheels and an engine, all it's about.

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Heck yeah! 100k!?!?! That's awesome!

[@gregoriojuarez1579]

I traded in my Iron 883 for a 19' Deluxe. The reason was, it was a pain in the back to ride on the freeway, the wind would make me it's bitch. There's not a day when I don't remember my sportster

[@MiNkOYu]

I really enjoy my one! Positive things: Great looking, if you buy second hand you will get your money back for sure if you sell it. Cheap parts, easy to handle. Economic in fuel.Comfortable to ride. Negative: A lot of vibration. After 70mph you feel the air pushing your head (only if you are used to speed). The sound is great but riding for an hour you feel your ears. For who is not recommended: For some who like speed and for those who are bothered from the air pressure coming to their face. Is great community and city bike riding max 55-60mph.

[@11123DRUMMER32111]

Mine Iron 1200 keeps up with every other cruiser I’ve ridden with. In a lot of cases the acceleration is better due to the “light” weight compared to the Softail models and especially the baggers. It’s not super comfortable for crazy long trips, but I ride long road trips regardless! I can be going 90mph down the highway and it still has more power to give.

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Yeah, the power to weight ratio is really good for the 1200's. I've always been a big fan of the nightster and other 1200 sportsters cause they're so fun!

[@gagedrew1508]

There’s a reason the evolution engine has withstood the test of time. It’s just so reliable to me it seems

[@ste4282]

I have a '22 883 and I enjoy riding it stock. I was considering doing a bunch of aftermarket, but it's cool just the way it is. The only thing I will say is after a very long interstate ride in the cold the other day, I did feel the vibration in my right foot at higher speeds, but it was no big deal and nothing that would make me want to sell the bike. Love my sportster.

[@Pik4Joel]

I just got my 22 Iron 883 Sporty - put an open air cleaner on and got immediate result on throttle!

[@TheNostorian]

It's a sporty. It runs on higher revs. It keeps up. Don't expect to win street races. But you can easily ride with your friends. Own a 1200 myself. But.hell i owned a virago 535 as my first bike. And i 2 uped that with my wife on the freeway np.

[@Heroshinwoo]

Tried to get one of these back in 2013 and I didn’t have enough credit built up at the time. This is the most beautiful bike and I wish I could still get one as I’m much older right now. One day. This is a dream bike for me

[@funshine3571]

My first harley was a 13 iron 883. Commuted to long beach 5 days a week 116 miles 1 way. I will absolutely own another one to rip through the canyons. 🤘

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Heck yeah! I always have fun rippin around on the sportsters!

[@Bigiron429]

Was my first bike before I got my Low rider s. Loved it.

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Oh man! Huge low rider s fan as well!

[@scott2228]

I'm 6 foot, 200 lb and I bought my 1st Sportster in 1998 at 20 years old. Love them. Still own a 2003 Anniversary addition Sportster custom. I've owned Dyna as well. For "around town" (under 30-45min) solo riding......Sportsters are perfect. The right bike for the job is key!!!

[@sirjames3494]

I’ve got my eye on it as my first beginner Harley (plus I’m just about 5,11 just about 6 foot) if it’s a girls bike then it’ll be perfect as a entry level bike

[@JonsMotoGarage]

They're awesome bikes, and a ton of fun!

[@davidlarm5548]

I bought my 883 new in 2018, I’ve watched all these videos. I’ve road tripped and cruised. It’s all up to rider preference. My iron has done it all, can’t complain about any of its aspects. These video reviews of the iron or a street glide......it’s all about rider preference.

[@franmitch3589]

So many people just dont understand how to operate a motorcycle if you dont have torque horsepower combo you just downshift and pull that motor up to its power limit to gain it's TRUE performance advantages / yes small displacement bikes do bogg down but will actually move if operated properly

[@GISRue]

Riding for 46 years a lot of different bikes, but my 883 iron is still one of my favorites.

[@1381greg]

Thank you for not cutting down the Sportster Iron 883....

[@tickotytuck199]

I own a 2015 street glide and my son has a 2016 iron 883. I throw a leg over his sportster just as much as mine because it is perfect for banging around town. Lots of fun! 😎

[@JonsMotoGarage]

That's awesome! I hope to ride with my kids when they're older. And you hit the nail on the head - the sporty is perfect for ripping around town!

[@gumbothundereagle8006]

Sportster is Every Mans First & Last Harley Davidson.... with everything else in the middle.... 🔱🇺🇸

[@joevaldez2820]

Wow those are the truest words ever spoken!!!

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Hahaha!

[@endzonebob]

Bob in SC

[@endzonebob]

Bob inSC. Finishing on XR1200x. Funnest bike ever

[@ChrisVanMiddelkoop]

I am on an 883 right now and it is so much fun. So light and has plunty of power. Just fine for cruising around the mountains around here.

[@lenmatthies9626]

They seem okay. I just like my soft tail. It’s not fast but I can put lots of miles on it and my butt don’t hurt. It’s what sweetens your taste.

[@paulzeigler1075]

I just bought a used 883 Sportster, a 2010 with only 504 miles, single owner no accidents. He had some knee surgery and his leg locked up whenever he rode, so I bought it as a project bike. It’s the first Harley I’ve ridden/owned. My other ride is a Victory Kingpin and that has me spoiled as the HD’s posture and shocks are very different. Still, I look forward to making it into a bobber or some kind of cafe bike though.

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Heck yeah! Sounds like a rad project!

[@PressureEd]

Great video man, I love the edit where you show the slow speed maneuvers on the cul-de-sac it keeps the video from seeming like a podcast, and keeps it informational Great points, no rambling of nonsense. Subbed.

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Thanks, brotha! I appreciate the support and feedback!

[@PkwyDrive13]

I bought my first bike last night.. I went with a gently used 2017 iron 883 red denim with V&H short shots, has 5500mi. I'm excited to get riding finally

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Heck yeah! Congrats on the new ride! 🤘😎

[@Ghost-mu6vh]

2 wheels all you need. I tell people if you were going to get a sportster get the 1200.

[@alanblanc3817]

I tell people the 883 is better because the battery and starter don't have to crank over such a big high compression engine to get it started.

[@freddobbs2011]

Yeah, I'm going to pile on with the pro Sportster crowd. Being of a certain age, I remember when Harley made essentially two bikes: The Harley 74 was the big bike. 74 means 74 cubic inches, or 1200CCs. It was a bagger, with 3 main customers--police and military, Ma and Pa Kettle as a retirement touring vehicle, and young rebels. The young guys chopped the bikes to take weight off and made some brilliant looking designs in the '60s and '70s. Stuff of legend. The other Harley was the Sportster 900 (883). Came from the factory already stripped down. Just a big engine with a bare bones frame around it. Totally cool. Today's Sportsters have gained weight, added engine isolation mounts, etc., but they are still awesome bikes in their own right. I had a '97 1200 which I tricked out a little with beefed up suspension and a few other goodies. No rubber mounts. So other than rattling my teeth after 70 or 80 miles, it did everything. Commute, California back roads, highway. All good. Sportsters rule! In the interest of full disclosure, I had mostly Triumphs as a kid, and now ride a Milwaukee 8-driven Low Rider.

[@nolanmacdougall1154]

I have a 17 iron converted to 1200 that bike is hell on wheels lol super fast up to a hundred but tops at 110-115

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Nice! The 1200s are awesome! I always loved the nightster! Wicked fun!

[@glenpope4955]

Funny I have a xl1200 custom and it has no problem getting up to 120+

[@Draknareth]

@@glenpope4955 Conversions have different gearings to a standard 1200 as far as i'm aware, so top end is different

[@nolanmacdougall1154]

My bike has much quicker acceleration than a stock 1200

[@Draknareth]

@@nolanmacdougall1154 Yeah, that's how different gearing works, you could increase top end and sacrifice acceleration, or have fast acceleration and sacrifice top end

[@sailnekkid]

My first Harley was a '96 sporty 1200 custom (delivered Sept. '95)....It hauled ass.....Owned 3 other big twins afterward....Loved 'em, too.....Now pushin' 75, so back to sporty 1200 (48).....Can't have too much funnnnnn!!!

[@trippybruh1592]

The people who are complaining about the vibrations, every V twin engine type will do that. It's a great way to get your girl wet before you get her home ;)

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Hahaha!

[@bwtv147]

All internal combustion engines vibrate. Honda offset crankpins on V-twins and balanced out a lot of the vibration.

[@benkrom2737]

Harley's don't vibrate they throb ! LOL

[@alex_rodriguez777]

Are the vibrations as bad as, say a 250cc single jingle at 75-80mph? Which is what I ride

[@benkrom2737]

@@alex_rodriguez777 Harley's don't vibrate, they throb !

[@JohnSmith-pl7uz]

I bought my ex a black 883 with 4200mi for 3800 in 2016. It had Vance & hines Shorty's that made it as lout or louder than my 05 Dyna low rider with screaming eagle. I got no respect from fellow Harley riders when I rode it a few times but I thought the bike was a lot of fun and canyon carved with the best of em!

[@ConnorFXDB]

SPORTY SQUAAAADDDDD!!! Sporties are rad! I always give em hell cuz its fun for a little riff every now and then. Esp when I had the dyna hahaha it was way too easy. DYNA BROOOOO! Ive truly fallen in love with my sporty its so torquey and nimble. But for longer miles Ill stick with my lowrider

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Tal cual! My thoughts exactly! It's with good reason they're such popular bikes.

[@raymondgarafano8604]

Bought an XLH1200 Nov 22 2012 looks like I'm keeping it! I love it. quick nimble easy to ride and with the right saddle and 4wards, you can stretch out. I put 1,000s of miles on my Sporty riding the back roads of Florida, 39 thru Plant city into Bradenton, a few hundred miles east of Tampa on rte 60 hundreds of miles on 301, the Sporty was made for main back roads

[@mikekosar6135]

Love this bike... a buddy at work has it.. just cool...he put different bars on it.. not real high.. Tastey 😎😎..you just look cool as hell riding these...

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Right!? They're such rad and fun bikes to zip around on!

[@joemarrier44]

I have 2012 883 Iron in the Ember Red sunglo. Its a beautiful bike that turns heads all day long. Tank lift, V&H shortshots, short sissybar, Screamin' Eagle performance Air cleaner, I love it!!!

[@austinrivers9938]

This is a great bike, I have a 2017, that I bought in late 2016 brand new, I’ve only put 1,700 miles on it, it was my first bike but I’m trying to sell it, I’m only asking 7k for it which I think is a pretty good price to ask but we’ll see, I’m only selling because I don’t ride much anymore due to a career change

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Grear first bikes for sure! I think you're in the ballpark as well!

[@BadCompany413]

I’m an old school 1%er and I’ve had a few throughout the years.. my favorites are the sportsters! Stroke them out and they fly! Easiest bike to cut corners and hide! Makes the best Choppers! I am “Chopper”.. OG Chopper New Mexico! Good show homie ..

[@glasgowharleyrider]

Great practical wee bikes , I got one here and love it , even tour scotland on it now and again.

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Shout out again to Scotland friends! 🤘

[@jamessouthworth1699]

BTW I did 1,000-1,600 mile trips on my 883 no problem with a Mustang touring seat, Plexifairing 3, detachable saddle bags, pulling a trailer behind, and Roadking shocks on the back. I've had Sportsters and still have a big twin and the Sportster Evo is hands down the most reliable and easiest to maintain Harley you can get.

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Nice! That sounds like the perfect set up for touring a sporty!

[@dennism103]

883s are a entry level bike. They are bulletproof

[@jefftilghman9059]

I just bought my 2015 a month ago. I bought mine from a commuter. He ran the complete stock setup. Immediately I installed Vance & Hines Staggered Short Shots on it. Big sucker and FP3 is next.

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Heck yeah! There will always be room for a sportster in my garage.

[@willjohnson211]

I’ve done 2,000 miles in a week on my 1200

[@MrMasMola]

I’ve done 940 miles in a day on my 1200. I’m not gonna lie, was painfull.

[@JohnnyRebKy]

My first bike was a brand new 883. Bought new in 2003 when I was 19. Rode it for 10 years. I never had a problem keeping up with anybody lol. It would run 80mph on the interstate all day long. Only reason I sold it was due to my back getting real bad. Gotta have a Cadillac now at 36 lol

[@christopherslaven2440]

Just bought a 2010 Iron 1200 as my first bike. LOVE IT. saving up for 12" mini Z apes and forward controls. 5'9 240lbs

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Congrats, brotha! Super rad! Ride safe!

[@TheWsh1025]

Bought a 97 1200 Custom and I LOVE it! 5'10" 215..

[@msmith1935]

William Handford lemme know if you need any stock cosmetic parts for it lol i bought a 97 xl also and turned it into a sixties style bobber so i have fenders, tank, bars, aircleaner,, exhaust... 👍🏻

[@TheWsh1025]

@@msmith1935 Awesome! I'll definitely let you know. Do you have any pictures it video of your Sportster?

[@msmith1935]

William Handford not yet it looks awesome but not all the way done yet,, just a few more little things, wat really sets it different than others is i put a dished wassel 2 gallon frisco tank on it wow totally changed the look im very pleased one thing bout sportsters is you can turn them into anything thnx for reply

[@ADVzac]

I've rode my 2013 883 superlow all the way from the Grand Canyon to Lake Erie! Super fun bike. So many mod options. Super fun bike.

[@ADVzac]

@jon if you see this. I plan for a June trip from Ohio to Maine , but I want to upgrade the headlight to a road king size head light. Any ideas? P.s. I'd love to share a photo or 2 with ya of the bike if that's possible. Thx.

[@Mando.91]

Loved the vlog, however I have to disagree with you on one thing, I jumped on a Sportster 48 1200cc coming off an gsxr600 and I absolutely fckn love it !!! Yeah there's a huge difference but hey to each their own but me personally I'll ride the fuck out of both of them any day... I did get my 48 for comfort tho. Already rode it from Cali to Texas and gonna shoot to Nebraska in the near future ...that's something I wouldn't do on my gsxr. Great vid man keep it up , you earned a sub and a thumbs up

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Thanks, brotha! I appreciate the support! One thing I'm learning more and more is how much really comes down to the individual. I hear ya for sure! I've yet to own a 48 but hope to when the right deal comes along. I love the 1200's!

[@ddibiasi1983]

I just bought a Screamin Eagle 1200 conversion kit. It’s being put on during Winter storage at my Harley shop. Can’t wait to test’er out. With my short shots and fuel pak I should get around 80 hp and 75-80 foot pounds of torque.

[@Peter-976]

Jon a big issue WAS the vibration. Pre 2004 hard mounted. Post 2004 rubber mounted, makes a huge difference. Would I commute on one? Hell yes, but I`m retired so no need to. Plus I have a Dyna but if I were to get a Sporty, it would be either the 72 or the Iron 1200.

[@joetroutt7425]

I've had an 07 Sportster 1200 custom and now have an 03 Sportster 1200 custom. I honestly can't tell much of a difference in vibration. My 07 was stock and my 03 is bobbed out and still can't tell a difference.

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Good point! I'm also a big fan of the 72 and new iron 1200. I'm really digging the roadsters, but those are likely the least comfortable. Lol.

[@Peter-976]

@@JonsMotoGarage check out this Roadster build. 130 hp, 90 torque kzbin.info/www/bejne/nICnY4GYdpdrick

[@chetlovesamerica6783]

Had a friend who was tall & thin@ 6'5",,,the last bike he owned was a 883,,,he was roadglide for a long time.He would pack around 50lbs on his 883 and travel the Country mths at a time"".He was crazy about that bike ♡,,,,great video!!☆☆

[@_____a3576]

You can convert that 883 to a 1200, 1250, or even 1275

[@JonsMotoGarage]

For sure! Tons of good options on the sporty!

[@tommyboy1986]

yeah I heard another dude who I think he said he has the 1275cc kit can hold his own against some 600cc streekbikes until he hits top speed of course.

[@saddle8bag]

That bike has the nicest exhaust note, right about 13.06 right before you say "Dangit."

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Hahaha! Yeah, they sound pretty good...and that's stock exhaust.

[@BikesBoatsBivouacs]

Love Sportys. I owned more sportys than any other bike

[@JonsMotoGarage]

We still need a 1200 low!

[@BikesBoatsBivouacs]

@@JonsMotoGarage you have 9 months to find one

[@robl884]

@@JonsMotoGarage hell I'm honestly thinking of buying another sporty due to the low price I got on mine, but I want something pre-EFI. I love my 2013 Iron but I'm definitely not a fan of fuel injected bikes. Doesnt give me that same old Harley Slap that I'm used to!

[@bikebilderbear6786]

I commuted to work for about 4 years on several different 49 CC 2 stroke custom bicycle choppers. Talk about cost efficient light nimble.

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Heck yeah! And eco friendly! Lol.

[@simonclark8176]

This is a beautiful machine with plenty of power ..if you can't do it on this the chances are you can't do it on anything ..

[@JonsMotoGarage]

This is true. Lol. Were so spoiled these days with bikes, but back in the day, the 883 would've been a dream bike in terms of power and comfort. I guess it's all relative.

[@jeffn4325]

I have a iron 883 as well 2015. It's my first bike got a new air intake and exhaust can't wait to see how much faster it got. The only thing i regret is not knowing how much money you don't factor in for the aftermarket mods. That being said I love it.

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Nice! Yeah, parts add up fast! But it's worth it, right? Lol.

[@richardabell175]

Sonny Barger rode Sporties didn't he?

[@brandongower7463]

I got my very 1st Harley 2 days ago I got a 1997 Harley Davidson Sportster 883 and I’m loving it

[@kornalekso]

Excelente video like always jon! I love my 2014 iron 883 this bike is sick, idgaf if people say its a girls bike. 😛 keep up the good work hermano!

[@JonsMotoGarage]

Heck yeah! I'll mob a sporty any day! Super rad bikes! Thanks, brotha!

[@brianminkc]

Well I love my sporty. Its what a Harley is supposed to be, sounds fantastic and still has that Harley feel. It isn''t a Honda with a Harley logo. I solved my main issue with the bike "cruising speed". When you go over 70mph it turns too many RPM. I put a 31T pulley on the front and now it cruises great in traffic. Cost of the upgrade was $$350 with labor included. You won't be popping wheelies but there was plenty torque to spare to give this bike overdrive. Some people even bump up to 32 teeth on the pulley which gives you 10 MPH more on the freeway at 70.