How-To Guide: What To Look For When Purchasing A Used Harley-Davidson Sportster

[@patfenis7644]

I've never held a motorcycle licence or owned a motorcycle but watched to the end and found this a wealth of info and very interesting .

[@adrianm.8278]

Yeh great video!

[@larryedgeworth9145]

How to take check 2002 Harley Davidson Sportster why when you crank it it'll run for 30 seconds and go dead it won't crank no more until you turn the switch off and turn it back on and crank it right back up run up 30 seconds what could it be

[@scottdavis1248]

Is that Because of a bad relay

[@joogullae3456]

I've owned 3 motorcycles and getting my 4th and have never had a motorcycle license lol

[@patfenis7644]

@@joogullae3456 I only rode my dads farm bike .

[@critter4662]

(Has $1.83 in bank account) “Yes I will watch this entire video and shop online for a bike for sale”

[@DLBRT]

And here i am 10 months later doing the same thing.

[@slavisakovacevic5575]

I mean, here in Germany just rich people paying cash for new bikes/cars although bikes are more or less already purchasable for cash..

[@mr.officer06]

I have three same amount but in euros

[@guyfawkesuThe1]

"Lot of things need fixing on a Harley...." Another reason to buy a Honda!

[@emmersonsimeao]

Bro i live in a country that you can't find these bikes and i'm watching the video anyway

[@jamesbarrick3403]

I agree with most here. It's best to go through the motions and QUIETLY make mental note of all defects. Do not get too verbal talking about it all with the seller. He will get the message without you pissing him off. Then make a reasonable offer after inspection. He will likely shake it off which is fine. Offer your number and let him know your offer is good for a few hours but you are leaving to look at more bikes... And walk away. If your offer was reasonable you will be stopped before you leave

[@betruly7894]

Thank-you friend

[@irishguyjg_2ndchancerecovery]

As someone who has only been riding a few years, I own a 2021 sportster IRON, my first newer bike and I have to say, all your videos, wether about engine tear apart or this one, I appreciate it all. I've been watching basically on loop oldest to newest. Thanks LOWBROW CUSTOMS!

[@guyfawkesuThe1]

Lot of these Sportsters were owned by women, i.e. small people.

[@caseyhayes4185]

I just bought a 2003 883 100th anniversary with 6000 miles on it for 3500 bucks thought that was a wicked deal

[@wario1015]

Some guy is selling a 2004 HD sportster with 6000 miles. For 2700 is that a good deal ?

[@BigPerm671]

Yup​@@wario1015

[@bald_agent_smith]

@@wario1015go and get this thing. It’s hella good deal sir

[@BigAl53750]

I don’t know why people keep saying that a Sportster’s no good for touring. I have a 97 883 (that’s in the process of becoming a 1275) and for the past 15 years I’ve toured all over Eastern Australia on it with no problems. I have it set up for long distance riding and have covered 500 + miles in a day more than once. I grew up on 1960’s and 70’s Triumphs and Nortons, so maybe I’m hardened a bit, but I like being able to mix it through the twisties whenever I’m on a long ride and a nice bit of road presents itself. I run a 29 tooth sprocket on the transmission end of the belt and that gives me revs that are just right for highway speeds without sacrificing too much lower down. The fact that larger Harleys are way more expensive than Sportys is a factor for sure, but I like the Sportster for its reliability and agility, among other things. You want comfort, buy a BMW.

[@greenmarine5]

get your self a 07-11 Dyna, it's like the big brother to a sportster, has way more power than a sportster, handles the same and is 5x's more comfortable, just a suggestion, you'll never go back to a sportster once you ride a Dyna. Back to your point, the Sportster is a rock solid bike after 1992, just keep the Dyna in mind, it's a better bike in every way. Then the BMW, if one works on their bike BMW's are great, but if one is a yuppy and sends their bike to the shop for work, then be prepared to shell out big bucks for EU parts and labor costs.

[@Sigibrand]

This fall I bought a 2009 Harley Sportster 1200C with 2800 miles on it for $3700. Great bike and has treated me well in the 500 miles I put on it this winter!

[@purebloodheretic4682]

2800 miles! Basically a New Bike - & Dirt Cheap! I wish I could find one that cheap, here in Australia you won't find one under 6k no matter the Age or Mileage!👍😁

[@bull419]

I would like to have this gentleman with me if I were going to buy a sportster, all the details he covered were excellent and for someone who has not ridden for a while his expertise would be invaluable. Great video.

[@deanblanton-fh3gq]

Too each his own, I myself have ridden and been around bikes most of my life. Ridden dirt track, mostly on a 750 Harley. Ridden from one end of this great country too the other checking the beautiful sites. Built many bikes myself from British too Japanese. But always returned to the great Harley. The sporty you broke down or stripped out made me sad. Especially being the 100 year anniversary special. Just thought you should have found one that was in lesser condition and did your magic. I’m now hitting 80 and that’s not the speed zone. Still up on two wheels and don’t see getting off any time soon. The total freedom of riding is the best for clearing the old head. Like your thoughts. Just a different view about screwing with a good machine. But thinking back, I’ve made a few bobbers back in the early 60s. Nothing like what the youth say a bobber is today. My first Sportster was my brothers 1957. Loved the bike, and so did the young women. Keep the bugs off your teeth and stay up on the two wheels. As you my know, the black top isn’t forgiving.

[@HillbillyChrome]

Picked up my first Harley a lil over a year ago, 06 Sportster 1200 Custom, got it for $2300, 38k miles, needed carb cleaned and battery replaced, I rebuilt the carb, noticed they had the thunderslide kit installed with the screaming eagle intake and jet kit, santee short shot pipes, I went ahead and did the full service, tuned the carb, added 10mm plug wires, new brakes, and a few cosmetic upgrades, just now ordered the new battery, made the old one last over a year riding it around town, couldn't ask for a better riding bike man! Gonna start riding it daily to save on fuel, but just wanted to say you are spot on with this video brother!

[@brucehelppie6119]

That was a masterclass in checking out a used bike.

[@thomasborger6548]

Just sent this informative picture show to my Grandson who is going to look at an 09 Sporty tomorrow morning. He bought an 89 XLH a month ago,,,, the kid has his priorities straight.

[@andrewbaggley276]

I lost my '03 1200 seventeen years ago, and am now set to (finally) purchase one - same as you have, just all black - with VERY low mileage on it. I cannot thank you guys enough for the point-by-point guidelines you have presented here, and which have allowed this total mechanical amateur to be granted SOME kind of vocabulary and insight on which to proceed without being a total sucker. I continue to watch your videos and encourage you to continue on. All thanks.

[@hatchetman220]

this is my favorite motorcycle information channel by far. no joke the second i seen this guys appearence the first video i watched i immediately trusted anything he had to say about harleys. all the videos are very clear and full of knowledge.

[@allgasnoclass]

you guys are killing it with the super-informative videos lately. wish this video existed when i bought my first (and second) used evo sportster!

[@howiee6143]

Thanks Todd and LB for this. Used it when buying my first HD, a 2007 XR1200R and got $200 off the price from something I saw here. Appreciate it!

[@Dawgs241]

Great Vid. I purchased a 98 Sportster 1200 95th anniversary edition a few months ago. It had 27,000 miles on it and I got it for a little under 2k. The bike runs great!! The only thing I had wrong with it was a few minor things were loose. It also had some rust spots, but the steel wool like you mentioned along with Lime away made the bike look new. She still running strong.

[@chasereeves6186]

As a 21 year old looking at older sportsters for my first bike this video was perfect and I learned exactly what I was hoping to and more. Thank you!

[@MrJohnydrift]

looking to purchase my first harley in a few days, the timing of this video couldn't have been better, thank you! great advice!

[@leeholzmann1023]

i was lucky i got a good deal on a 98 sportster

[@ericgreen9087]

I have a used 2016 Sportster for sale if you're interested. Low mileage.

[@MrJohnydrift]

@@ericgreen9087 Thanks Eric, Already bought one now, all the best

[@jonnymac8925]

@@MrJohnydrift what did you end up picking up? Congrats!

[@MrJohnydrift]

@@jonnymac8925 I bought a Silver 2006 Sportster 883 XLH, only had 3600 miles on the clock and thats what I payed for it too.

[@VONVELLImusic]

Never owned a Harley yet. But I constantly watch how to videos on sportsters for some reason. I feel like by the time I have one I'll be able to maintain it so great. All the upgrades for it are simple enough to where it makes it seem pointless to own a different bike. In my opinion

[@jhenry8699]

Well done, very helpful video. Many of these evo sportys tend to collect a good portion of the engine oil inside the crankcase after sitting for a long period without being started. Be careful with adding any oil until you crank the engine over a few times at least or start and run for a few seconds then check the tank level. Another thing these are notorious for is the oil tank tabs being cracked and leaking at the welds on the backside of the tank where the rubber mounts screw into.

[@robertbarger6439]

Buying my first Harley this weekend thanks for the tips

[@KakuiKujira]

This gentleman is such a great presenter, love his casual, relaxed style.

[@roksva3861]

Superb how-to video. Will definitely help my purchase next week.

[@fearsomename4517]

I never say...I'll give you. I always say will you consider, it works every time.

[@bv.hd883]

I am about to buy my first ever bike and this video was so informative! This guy is knowing what he's doing and I would have never thought of checking all these details. Will definitely help me look like I know what I'm doing when shopping for a used bike 😅 thanks a lot

[@noahhorton400]

Im looking at a 2003 sportster after only owning kawasakis and this video was exactly what i was looking for!!

[@brandonrandom2138]

I bought my 2013 Sportster 72 from Harley Dealer and it looked great but I didn't look through it so thoroughly. After a week I realized it was missing a bolt on the motor mount, the rear exhaust bracket was missing, they replaced the hand grips but it had scratches on handlebars so it was dropped but no biggie. Dealer told me it was never dropped/ no accidents. I've learned a lot from this and thanks for the video, it's all the little things to look out for.

[@deckerhand12]

I got a used sportster had it for two years before it got 7 leaks. I got mine at a used bike shop had a a warranty up till about 35 thousand miles that ended within a year or less. All in all I love my sportster

[@leonardoluc6362]

Nothing sounds like a Harley, love it.

[@tx_reds2426]

If you want to make a cheat sheet like myself just copy and paste this and just bring it with you ...... I hope this helps because this guys video helped me. Tools to bring: Phillips screw driver, flashlight, rag, multimeter (harbor freight $6.50 us) Request bike is cold upon arrival Make sure they have a clear title and the numbers match the VIN on frame First appearance Tire pressure Check oil level dipstick Tires, are they dry rotted or outdated? Four digits after DOT are week and year of manufacturer ex. DOT0917 9th week in 2017 (52 weeks in year) Brake pads and rotors Brake lines Throttle and clutch cables, does throttle return when you let off? Controls Electrical system Lights, turn signals, brake lights (activate both hand and foot switches), hi/lo beam, horn, instrument gauges (if you have touring you can search how to do a gauge sweep and pull codes) Check charging system, should be around 12v DC when in off position, when running and given throttle voltage should jump upwards 12.5-14vDC While looking at battery look for any signs of battery acid leakage Rocker box gaskets, any oil presence Shift shaft seal on primary Primary cover, any oil presence Obvious signs of bike being dropped- check ends of levers and crash bars, possibly under saddlebags or sides, gas tank and front wheel axle, turn signal housings, bottom primary cover Possibly bent wheels Condition of paint Cracked or lose lenses Bent fenders, front and rear of both the front and rear fenders Under seat inspection Underneath bike visual inspection, minor scratches are ok but gouges and heavy scratches could lead to corrosion if bare metal is exposed Belt inspection Chrome rusting or pitting/corrosion Front fork seals Handlebar placement, can you turn the bike and not hit the gas tank? (VERY important on café style bikes) Tree bushings, crank handlebars slightly to left and right after they have hit the frame stop and make sure bushings aren't worn Fuel, look down in gas tank for any debris or rust Missing fasteners Smoke from exhaust ( Black smoke could be harmless but white smoke could indicate something more) I would research your make and model. If you notice any poorly connected wires with improper connectors or wires twisted together due to previous owner making own electrical repairs please be careful and inspect those areas very carefully. Good Luck to you all, stay safe.

[@AlanKennedyaktkpkck1]

Going2 look at a Sportster today & I thought I was quite well informed on buying my wheels & what to check but I found out new stuff I should check for. watching this video helped big time. Many thanks. invaluable info!👌 Wish me luck it’s my first Harley it’s only taken me till I’m nearly 60 to even entertain one. Why? Was a no brainer in my opinion, they look cool ,sound amazing , VERY COMFORTABLE positioning for us mid aged dudes with bad backs. Only thing I’m bit weary about is the gearing being forward positioned but willing to give it a go! (Can change it back if required) I’m Scottish & had a few Triumphs back in my youth (yes they had the obligatory oil leak nobody seemed bothered by 😂) moved on to Sports bikes mainly & now have no need for speed just the need for riding up in the Scottish Highlands on a cool & comfortable set of wheels. A Harley Sportster ? Hope so!✊🏼 Ps: Rags going in my back pocket 😏😉✌️

[@harleyguzz4301]

As usual from this guy at LowBrow great video, very informative down to earth advice , If I might just say ,low mileage isn't always a good thing, doing a couple of miles to the shops doesn't do the engine any favours. Probably the owner thought that he hasn't got to 5000 miles so it doesn't need an oil change, so the oil has been in there for years, water an all. Buyer beware,,,,,, Great video .....

[@levigarrett8674]

Bring a $20 Home Depot Ryobi digital thermometer with you & aim it at the motor,if it's more than 5 degrees higher than outside air temps you know he started it & warmed it up .

[@USNVA-yn6cp]

dont need that,,use your hands and feel the heads

[@needparalegal]

Your hand is cheaper.

[@lightingrodtodd]

Your hand is cheaper is what she said

[@raydreamer7566]

Some of the things you are showing I already knew but I will admit that I am always learning and being reminded from you .. Thanks ! Your videos are kind of videos I can and like to learn from...

[@MidnightExpressMC]

Those are some good tips. I’d proceed with caution with the steel wool, though; not sure many owners would dig : ) I’d also add to it that you should always ID the seller in order to verify that he/she is the owner of record as indicated on the title, or the deal is void. No money should ever change hands before this crucial step has been taken. From southern California - Ride Forever!

[@normpetroff5549]

I love this guy... so quirky but full of good information.

[@daveco1270]

I went and looked at a sweet 66 Bonneville the other day. Watching the Lowbrow videos has made me want a vintage British bike....and it's armed me with some good information about old Triumphs. The owner had it sitting in the garage for 4 years not running, with zero prep for storage. The gas tank was half full and the carbs hadn't been drained. The inside of the gas tank looked funky and it smelled like a distillery... i'm not sure if that was the ethanol separating from the gas. I didn't end up buying it because the price was too high for what needed to be done to it.

[@JamesCouch777]

Hopefully you found one. Those old Triumphs are getting hard to find. I've got a couple I put together from basket cases and I'm hanging on to them.

[@mattmeszaros4541]

Just purchased an 03 sprorty picking it up with my truck tomorrow...love your videos. Great harley content and knowledge. Will be religiously watching this channel for a the next year.

[@thejerseyj9422]

Really well done. I'm looking for an Evo Sportster right now so this was very helpful. Thank you.

[@ontopent]

Bought one like this with 3600 miles owner hadn’t ridden it for a year or 2 left it out in the elements, starter was gone and speed sensor, bunch of rust spots all over, got it for $2000 and cleaned it up with steel wool, not complaining really I really dig it

[@bossrollup6920]

Extremely helpful, looking to get my first bike and I was actually considering a used sportster I found in my area, this vid gave me a lot more knowledge on what to look for

[@brianminkc]

I felt the same way about the engine guard on the one I just bought. Then I hit a curb and ended up on the concrete. Sure glad I left that guard on.... it protected the engine and also gave the flatbed a place to hook on to drag up the bike without hooking to my forks. Lesson learned.

[@Lucifer3001]

Just don't get your leg caught in it like my friend. It drug him and tucked him up under the wheel well of the the tow truck he was avoiding... He looked pretty good at his funeral, considering the circumstances... Ride safe

[@soldtobediers]

Thorough. This time of the year don't hurt negotiations neither. -11b4p

[@Johnclark300]

Check the drive belt if dryrotted it will leave you stranded it will snap. Every used Harley I bought the first thing I always did was replace the belt. Just because it doesn't look dryrotted doesn't mean it ain't.

[@ranplan]

Best video on the topic. Grabbing a Sportster this summer, and now I’m prepared. Thanks!

[@susanbutler2498]

Excellent advice Mate. My '91 XLH1200 was wonderful, had it for 12 yrs, would have another Sportie (with warmer cams this time) in a heartbeat.

[@nickkaptein9042]

As someone who has had a few bikes, I would agree with him. This is a great video to learn from.

[@tylerkessler1457]

I've been slowly working on my late grandfathers 93 sportster and I can't get enough sportster videos

[@bellmichael]

I can't tell you how many bikes I went to look at and said to the guy " Well I see this bike but can you show me the one you talked about on the phone".

[@AAAskeet]

I like where the ad pic is from the day they bought it-5 years ago

[@kwamestamps35]

Real tears!

[@dannorton6611]

Nice video...great job. Picking up a 2002 Sportster tomorrow. Very helpful and kept my interest all the way.

[@waylonmacdonald9216]

Thank you for all the info and great videos ! Got a 2008 Sportster 883 custom ...

[@joecamel6835]

A 883 isn't a real bike.

[@Crazyhorse1971]

​@@joecamel6835your an idiot!!

[@Kevin-ne3tl]

@@joecamel6835 It isn't? Then what is, camel toe? I have a '97 883, and rode it to Sturgis twice. And before you start in on me, I also have a 2002 FXDL with the 88 twinkie. I still like rockin' that little Sportster. It's just a FUN bike to ride.

[@ljonathan304]

I am going to try all that out next week when I see my guy, very thankful!

[@yayagazab4449]

Schedule to see the motorcycle during the daytime, not nighttime! At night, you miss things.

[@motooilermotooiler9597]

One additional thing I always carry when buying a bike is a cheapo multimeter to see if the bike is charging properly at idle and in revs. If it doesnt that can be a very expensive fix, onboard electronics like ECU included. The RIDE TO LUNCH thing had me crying 😂 Cool vid man.

[@craigpennington1251]

Another great video but in my state, there aren't that many good Sportsters and ones I've looked at have at least 60,000 miles on. If the seller has all the maint. receipts for that bike, chances are it's good. That's one great thing about H.D. You can go 50 miles in any direction and find a dealership. Plus those bikes are pretty much trashed out. Sportsters are great for around town and short trips on 2 lane and gravel roads.

[@B3lugaCafe]

All those things, on a bike with 4k miles, really really really speaks volumes about build quality

[@jaywinters2483]

He's got good adviseh. This guy is worth hearing.

[@BearArms1972]

Outstanding video. I dig your knowledge and your presentation style. Great information.

[@bobkinney2430]

I am picking up a 2006 XL 883 for $3000.00 - needs a little work but has been garage kept. I'll probably ride it while before putting the 1250 kit on it.

[@edkanterman7613]

I have the same 2003 100th Anniversary Sportster and got a lot of great tips from this video. Well done!

[@DH-mf2lv]

Would you rather have an 883 over a 1200?

[@yucasola]

I noticed immediately that the air cleaner cover is not leveled. Excellent video.

[@Master-Baiter]

I love how you said alot of bikes look better in pictures, the sportster I just bought looked terrible in the picture but it was cheap, turned out he must have just had a bad camera because she looked amazing in the flesh

[@fl7645]

Excelent video. Very usefull. I had a 2005 custom but when the primary was too loose and i had to invest more than a 2000 $ on that bike

[@raymondrisk66]

This is a great video. I’m in the process of looking at an XL883L 2005 I will take all of this information you just shared and taught me in the purchase of my first bike. Thank you.

[@semperfipar1299]

The rocker box leak is a warranty fix. The sportster is bullet proof. The best bike Harley ever made. The only shortfall is factory power is low. Rough around all of the edges.

[@Loch2A]

Enjoyed your video. Just bought one of these sportsters last week for the hell of it. I didn't go through all the steps you mentioned but it's a trusted shop.

[@alexhooge8477]

Got mine this weekend 05 883 16k miles for 2500. Needs little work but heck of a deal

[@jeffsaxton716]

Mine is a 2000 XL1200S. It looks a lot like that one, but is original HD orange. It has dual disks in front, though. 10K miles, Screaming Eagle upgrades, Vance&Hines.

[@BADDUDE_CORNPOP]

Ride 2 lunch live 2 ride....love this dude.. U no wat he is thinking bout.. it must be like 11:55 a.m. while they're filming this video...

[@davidbrooks4285]

All the info is good if you have no idea about bikes but I bought an 05’ 1200 in 2015 and 3 months later the engine seized,so the info given is ok but it’s what’s inside that counts,ask for a maintenance record and take the VIN to a Harley dealership and ask them for the maintenance record

[@seandompe7300]

Thanks i forgot a few of these things to look at great video

[@crocketgsxr6]

you look for a Yamaha bolt. (shots fired) . But seriously this is a great resource, plus hey you guys are local..ish.

[@frankfedewa9769]

All this time I wondered why one out of my three Harley's the choke always goes right back in after I pull it out, all this time! Thanks lowbrow and your chain conversion is badass.

[@keithstanton4504]

Same here.Now I'm going out to the garage and tinker with my bikes.hahaha

[@anthonyscott16]

Great guide. I wish I had seen this prior to purchasing mine. Thanks for sharing this.

[@JR-ez8hd]

Thank You for the information Sir. Great Tips and wise advice. Will be traveling next week to consider buying a 2017 Roadster with 5800 kms on the Odo. Cheers

[@ericweber1969]

Excellent, highly informative video. Thanks for posting this, I always enjoy Lowbrow's videos, and you never disappoint! Keep up the great work.

[@cosmiccharlie8294]

Zeroing in on a used Sporty. Found a nice blue 2004 1200 custom with 2200 miles on it. $3500. Going to put a 3" over springer, 10" apes and a bobber seat on it and call it good for a while. Yeah, I can't put a Low Brow hard tail on it but at 62 a hard tail might be too hard. If I bond with it a 1275 100 hp kit will be in order. And this all started when I watched that El Diablo run video......

[@lowbrowcustoms]

Cosmic Charlie led sled makes hardtail for 04 up and we sell conversion kits to solid mount the motor!

[@cosmiccharlie8294]

@@lowbrowcustoms Mucho. gracious boys! Got a guy coming to buy my 2014 DRZ400S tomorrow so then things will get serious. Been riding for 43 years so it's high time I get a Harley.

[@trevorjameson3213]

Very informative, you brought up some very good points that I had not thought about before.

[@olehemlock]

Thunderheader is a plus! lol. In the market for a sportster going to watch this video a couple times. Learn how to read titles is a good tip! For example a, b, c or d and so on , d would mean 4 owners.

[@gwendolinemabaker547]

Thank you !! I will see my first HD tomorrow, I will use your tips!

[@garyballard723]

Thank guys,, Great info...very useful. But NEVER rev a cold engine. Jus sayn.

[@Siskiyous6]

Good video. I have only ever bought used bikes. I am looking at Harleys right now and this was good info.

[@ryancraig2795]

Nice. Good clear and simple guide to the basic stuff to look for. Well done!

[@rev.farmer7649]

Thanks for the tutorial. Nice points for one new to the Harley World!

[@SilverFox-fq7xi]

That looked like a anniversary Sportster. Love those older ones before the rubber engine mounts.

[@jonnymac8925]

It is a 100th anniversary Sporty! Good eye!

[@sambethune]

And in gunmetal too! A great color for the Sportster!

[@spaceflight1019]

The solid mounts are known for vibrating enough to eat headlight bulbs in as few as 1000 miles. In contrast, the headlight bulb in my 2005 1200 Roadster with 80k miles is the original. One trick is to oil the three Heim joints that permit the engine to move on the rubber mounts. If they seize the vibration will make your hands fall asleep!

[@brenthill3241]

To an old school guy who has one of the old AMF big twins this Sporty is mint.

[@londonweekend]

That bike looks great!

[@ashtonr6751]

I like to get em as cheap as possible. Therefore if it rolls, frame isn't bent. Fork is fine. Has an engine (in any condition) I'm game. Just bought one of these for 800, had an electrical problem, the guy pulled the cams out to see if it was the ignition timer. Bit didn't know how to put them back. I had the bike running in a day. It's now a commuter for me

[@lonerider1976]

Great advice! I'll be buying a used Harley in a week and will use the tips given here. Thanks man!

[@kylecarson4019]

Thanks! Looking to buy one of these when I get home from my deployment in a few months!

[@lowbrowcustoms]

Good choice!

[@yayagazab4449]

Did you buy your Sportster yet? I have 2 different models for sale: a 2010 Nightster & 2011 48. Both are in immaculate condition as I take very good care of them. Let me know if you’re interested. Thanks.

[@spaceflight1019]

First thing, get one that's rubber mounted. 2004 and up. Secondly, they improved the clutch and transmission in 2006. Thirdly, they went to EFI in 2007. If the bike has set for several months it's common for the engine oil to have leaked past the check ball into the engine. This will correct itself when you start it. I own a 2005 1200 Roadster set up for touring that currently has almost 80,000 miles on it.

[@spaceflight1019]

Also, pull all of the fuses and check the fuse block and the Maxi-Fuse for corrosion. Batteries last between 3 to 5 years.

[@spaceflight1019]

It's always a good idea to siphon out the old gas and start off fresh. You'll save yourself a lot of aggravation.

[@mikeydejon2148]

I appreciate this video been looking at sportsers. Gonna buy one in spring👍

[@Logan9286-o1n]

Duuude I'm actually looking to buy a used Iron 883 here in Calgary and there r a few options so i was wondering how to check it (since I'm not a mechanic) and you just lighted the way to it; thanks 4 this content is amazing.

[@7heAteles]

super helpful video and perfect timing there is a crazy amount sportsters for sale in my area right now! and they're all over the map in terms of asking price. These tips will be very handy!

[@ericweber1969]

The Ateles that's good for you, man. In my area, everyone seems to think they're made of gold.

[@rexstewart6111]

Low oil on a sporty can be it is wet sumping. I got 1200S it does that if left sitting a long time.

[@jeffhale2278]

Best to start the bike for a minute, then check the oil. It will leak down if it has sat for while. If you don't, you'll end up overfilling the tank.

[@rexstewart6111]

I too have a 1200S and it is wet sumping also.

[@michaelhayward7572]

And don't forget if you are a pro mechanic and like working on your own bike, get an 03 or earlier without rubber mounts, with a carb, and most importantly, with a g/box trapdoor!

[@ronaldthomas9396]

Even if you're not touring, saddle bags are useful for carrying extra clothes, first aid kit rags etc.! I haven't toured on my sportster but a ride is often 2 or 300 miles, my bags useful! Maybe I will tour on it!

[@lowbrowcustoms]

to each their own.. and yes bags are helpful. Todd just doesn't like em on a sportster. But like you said, they are good for all kinds of things. just not ascetically pleasing for what we ended up doing with this bike, which is the Saturday Sportster series build

[@keltingr]

picked up a 2004 883 XL for $1600 cash recently, needed a little work but rode it home. 34k miles

[@spaceflight1019]

Not bad. Enjoy the rubber mounts. Don't forget to oil the three Heim joints that allow the motor to move, and if you oil the rear swingarm Heim joints once a month or after riding in rain you'll get way more life from them. I ride a 2005 1200 Roadster that I bought new and have put 80k miles on it. The drive belt broke at 74k miles, in case you're wondering how long they last.

[@chrisaguilar7582]

saving up for my daily driver and this helped out alot i was just goin in blind

[@Chry_Bmb]

Want a sportster 883 bad so this is great to pop up in my recommendations