Why Does Everyone Hate Sportsters?

[@juliancrooks3031]

Those that hate Sportsters have probably never ridden one. They are great bikes and fun to ride

[@donaldpruett852]

My first motorcycle was a 1964 Sportster XLCH. Bought used in 1966. I was 22 back then. No battery. Straight magneto. Love/hate relationship. I had the strongest right leg of anyone in my family. Winter starts involved a can of ether and many kick-backs. Not too many ladies bought Sportsters back then. "Real men didn't ride bikes with electric starters"? Weren't no electric starters back then. Since then I have owned about 22 motorcycles. The last two were a 2001 Harley Road king and 2006 Sportster 1200 Roadster.

[@thatsmrharley2u2]

I just turned 68 years young. My main ride is an '81 FXS Lowrider, and I love the shit out of her. She is the most dependable bike I've ever owned, and there have been many. I own four bikes at the moment...my FXS, a sweet 1200 Sporty, a '75 Yamaha DT250B and a '72 Ossa Pioneer, and I ride them all pretty frequently. My experience has been that the people that hate Sportsters are usually just repeating something they heard from somebody else or read online. I've owned several Ironheads and Evo Sportys...as a matter of fact the sale is pending right now on my near mint original 1988 Sporty XL1200, the first year of the 1200 Sporty, that has less than 20K original miles. When my Ironhead was my main ride years ago, and somebody with a big twin would make the inevitable 'girl bike' remark...I'd just point down the road to the fourth or fifth utility pole and tell them that the first one there gets the other guys title. No takers. Ever. If I've learned anything in my life, it's be your own man. Ride what you like, not what other people SAY you should ride.

[@SmittyInVegas]

Mmmm. I’m 61. I love street draggin between lights. I haven’t done it in a long, long time. But I almost did a couple months ago against a big twin. If that guy would have waved me up to the stoplight, I would’ve done it. Ended up his tire was spinning on the crosswalk paint as he blew a red light. I might have to try it on my stripped down 883. Smitty

[@everettcalhoun8197]

I agree. I will celebrate my 70th next year. Been riding a motorcycle for over a half century. From a Honda 90 to a custom built 128 inch motorcycle. They are all fun. From trying to get to 60 mph on a Honda 90 to trying for 200 mph in a big inch motor. Live your life.

[@Mmoose74]

I've owned alot of motorcycles, including Harleys, a Low Rider, Sportster, a Street glide and of them all I missed my sportster the most. Now I'm back on a sporty. There are alot of faster bikes but NOTHING is quicker than a sporty!

[@jeffsaxton716]

I'm 73 and own an XL1200S, 2000 vintage. This is configured as a cafe racer.

[@johnmartin1114]

If it wasn't for the iron head a lot of service shops would have went out of business years ago

[@robertruark4051]

I seem to remember seeing an ad in easyriders back in the day that was pointed at dressers that said if you wanted all the comforts of home you should have stayed there.

[@buttcrackcycles]

I like this

[@jeffs7139]

I have a 1980 ironhead that I bought new 43 years ago. Wouldn't ever part with it. Sportster's aren't just a fad, they'll be around forever !

[@mariocooldude9092]

Not forever 😂 the commies are gonna make gas ⛽ powered every thing obsolete 😢

[@tjzulu1]

Still have my '84 ironed...never gonna sell it!!

[@buck_the_atlas]

Not everyone hates Sportsters.. Only posers hate Sportsters. It's one bike I've been wanting to add to my collection since forever.

[@jeffsaxton716]

I bought my 2000 XL1200S from the heirs of a dead introductory Harley guy. 10K on the clock, I carefully stored it until now. I'm getting it rideable and this is not a "girl's bike " . 500 pounds and 85 HP? OK. I know a girl who'd ride it. She could kick my and 90% of dude's asses.

[@breakfast00club..11]

Put a rainbow sticker on it

[@BNatoAk]

​@@breakfast00club..11OK, basement mommy boy 😅😂😅

[@breakfast00club..11]

@@BNatoAk she likes the smell down there.

[@DavidTubbs-wy3xc]

Fuckin purists

[@PotatoeJoe69]

I love Sportsters. They are, well WERE the most old school Harley made. The frame hasn't changed much since 1957, and very very few people realize this, but the Evo Sportster engines are 90% the same as an Ironhead engine. Also, don't really care what anyone says, Sportsters are the best aounding Harleys on the planet.

[@53merlin]

You can't kill that engine.

[@donniebaker5984]

90% ironhead ??? nothing you have said so far is true but 90% bullshit ...the 2008 ~ 2013 XR 1200 is the #1 bike in Japan

[@PotatoeJoe69]

@@donniebaker5984 Look up some diagrams, knuckle dragger. Then when you get done, I will take your apology right here.

[@steve-rr3nq]

I had an 87 sportster 883 4 speed, currently have a 98, 883. carb. 5 speed. I love the 5 speed. I grew up on Hondas, and was always looking for a higher gear on the 87. but it would haul booty in the 1/4 mile. At first, I thought it was my rooster. I was a helo crew chief in the Navy. I loved flying. then life hit, and now I'm old. to old to fly, but not to old to ride. It puts a big smile on my face, and lifts my spirits.

[@vernleroyson331]

From an investment perspective, the Iron head and Evo Sportsters are worth more than most 88 inch or 96 inch twinkle FLs. They will continue to increase in value since the discontinue of the Sportster. The new fake Sporsters are having a lot of issues as I have been informed by those who have purchased them. Thank you for another great video!

[@10ampsloblo21]

from what I have learned the evo sporty motor is harleys best moto. my 1st harley was a new 80 xlh couldnt afford a sturgis.

[@earthwoolandfire9715]

I have a Sportster and a Softail. I love them both, but have always leaned more towards the Sportster. And don’t forget Evel Knievel or Dwayne Allman. Tell them Sportsters are for girls.

[@geraldwest3428]

Cant imagine not loving sportsters! Currently riding a 2008 xl883 custom with the 4.5 gal tank. It runs like hell and looks great. Im minimalist who loves bikes not two wheel rv's. Thanks for your take on the sporty man.

[@bobmalloy1630]

EXACTLY!

[@nealehanning4700]

One of the most underrated motorcycles ever built. Love sporties. I have an 010 model that I’ve hot rodded up a bit and it puts a huge grin on my head every time I ride it. I have 3 friends ,who, like me have been riding for over 40 yrs and we all have a sportster in the shed.

[@edZILLA64]

I rode a Sportster for 10+ years. I made that my own and it turned quite a few heads. I sold it a few years ago and regret it. I then bought a Fatboy,sold it , and now own an Electraglide. I say ride what makes you happy.. In the end your opinion is all that matters. P.S. I have a 1982 Ironhead Basketcase that i hope to build one of these days.

[@buttcrackcycles]

Yup, ride what you like and don't look down on others, I've had Hondas and a Kawasaki also, but something about a Sporty gets me going! Thanks for watching

[@ronniewilhite8479]

I agree it's nothing wrong what you like ..I also have two ironhead sportster and one more is coming soon I also have 1975 Shovelhead and 1966 Panhead also I will buy Honda Shadow then I'm done ....I like motorcycle it's just a motorcycle

[@DonaldGMyers]

Back in the early 80s I used to ride a 1976 XLCH from Ft. L’Wood Missouri to Tupelo Ms. At least once a month for two years and loved every minute of it.

[@kurtfoulke5130]

Never heard it said better. Buy a nice clean, stock, low mileage one now while they are reasonable, because that's about to change !

[@almunoz9088]

Good advice!..I bought a clean 2015 Sportster, Superlow in original condition, low miles, for a fair price. I didn’t realize the “investment” aspect of it until now, when I read your post. Thank you for your insight! Happy riding😎

[@ArchimedeanEye]

The XR1200 will probably become one of the most sought after Sportsters. Short production run, best handling of any Harley ever and pretty quick.

[@veefour57]

The Sportster would have been my first choice of Harley but at 6 feet tall and 235lbs I just don't fit on it! I bought a Dyna instead and find the bigger frame suits me perfectly. I'm not keen on baggers, I know they're more practical but I prefer the stripped down look of the naked bikes.

[@buttcrackcycles]

For sure, that's a good reason not to own one, it sounds like you bought what suits you, not what everyone said to buy. Thanks for the comment!

[@Arizona_Vineyard]

A president of a very well known MC club said he loves the sporty… I have a sporty and love the the thing

[@Sportster2012]

I have 2012 1200 72 sportster. I put 8 0ver forks with a 3 degree rake. Also put a king an Queen seat with a 6 foot sissy bar.. Love it. She gets a lot of attention

[@SmittyInVegas]

I own 7 HDs. My little 1995, 883 sporty is a absolute BLAST to ride around the Las Vegas city at night. I bought it wrecked for $960. I bobbed/stripped it down to my liking. Rust oleum satin black. I get compliments on it wherever I go. I never thought I would do this. But I am currently building a iron head bike, that is absolutely wild. Smitty in Vegas.

[@buttcrackcycles]

Hell yeah

[@everettcalhoun8197]

The 91 to whenever the factory eliminated the trapdoor (2004) are the best sportsters to own.

[@yaboileeroy3038]

One of the techs at the shop I work at openly admits that he doesn’t like Sportsters because A) everything’s so compact on them that it’s hard for him to fit his massive hands in anywhere and B) he’s just too big of a dude to ride them. I own one, love how it feels, just hate how I get stoved up in my hips with the mid controls. Forward controls are funky for me with my short legs, the best middle ground, figuratively and literally, is an FXR my boss has. I’ll tolerate it until I figure out a proper, and likely custom, solution to this conundrum, and make the best of my nimble little baby Harley.

[@rickamick8405]

I'm 72 and I bought an 06 carbed 1200 sporty about 6 years ago. Love it Only thing other than stock is the 9 disk Barnnett clutch I installed . I always rode 1974 CB 750 Hondas.

[@Critastic]

It’s funny, a majority of the guys I meet who ride touring bikes are not good riders, duck walking when doing u-turns and have terrible control of the bikes.

[@frankmarkovcijr5459]

I have had my Sportster for 25 years and four hundred thousand miles on her.I am more than happy with it.

[@Ragnar215]

I am in a 1% Club in Philadelphia and I have a sportster a lot of our guys have sportster no one hates sportsters. At one point they were considered the most quickest and nimble bikes out there.

[@Flyrod10]

When I bought a new Ironhead in 1974, the cost difference between a Superglide and a Sportster was $100. Where I live, every road is like the Tail of the dragon, the sportster is the better choice.

[@P.M.O.S.69]

I bought my first motorcycle a few years ago from a coworker. It's a 1977 Ironhead Sportster. I feel lucky to have it, I love it and think it's cool as hell!

[@BNatoAk]

Oh it is cool as hell! Congrats!!

[@brianmcintee6647]

I mostly ride my 77 flh and I have two buddy's that only have sportsters once in a while we swap rides and i like them really fun quick bikes

[@antipodas1979]

I totally agree with you! I m a also a sportster guy with two bikes(883 and 1200). They're so cool to ride! I ve ridden other big Twins but I dont get the same vibe! To be fullfilled i just need an ironhead sportster ❤!

[@buttcrackcycles]

Right on, I love my ironhead, hands down my favorite bike

[@flhs81]

I guess not everyone hated the Sportster. Harley-Davidson Sportster The Best-Selling Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Of All Time The Harley-Davidson Sportster was first introduced in 1957, and it quickly became a hit with riders. The original Sportster, known as the XL, was powered by a 883cc V-twin engine and featured a unique design that set it apart from other motorcycles on the market.

[@ranchodeluxe1]

Bullshit. There are millions of Touring bikes out there. I work on 20 Big Twins for every XL that comes in.

[@flhs81]

@@ranchodeluxe1 No bullshit. Talking all time overall sales for Harley.

[@ranchodeluxe1]

@@flhs81 And still way wrong. The FL Touring Big Twin lineup began in 1954, if my memory serves. That after 19 years of the EL platform, and has been cranking out the Touring bikes since. Some years XL sales outpaced Big Twins, but seldom. If you count the EL/FL/FX platforms as one, and the powertrain is the same, it's not even close.

[@ranchodeluxe1]

@@flhs81 In 2017 H-D produced 99000 Touring bikes and 54,000 XL platform machines. Those early years of XL outselling Big Twin don't measure up. The production wasn't high enough in the old days to outweigh the modern era.

[@judymarshall3383]

Harley was pretty stupid to drop them from their lineup.

[@tld522]

I have made several videos on this subject. I just recently added a sporty back to my collection. Great content!!! 3:28

[@davidnorris5675]

I love sportsters and don’t like baggers

[@buttcrackcycles]

Me too buddy, me too

[@benderbender1233]

🤘

[@MrJruta]

Same!

[@clawhammer704]

The first Harley I had was 1979 sporster. It’s was a 1000cc. That bike had the best sound of any Harley Iv owned. Then I got a 883 evolution bike thinking it was enough. I was wrong. I then sold that and got a 96 1340 dyna. It was enough to get me around on the interstate. Later on I did not ride as much in 2020’s so I got a 1200 sporster. It’s the best Harley Iv owned to date.

[@benderbender1233]

@@clawhammer704 79 1000 ir0nhead rite here brrruthurrr!! 🤙

[@safeeffective385]

President of Sons of Silence MC rode an Ironhead sporty at the front of the pack for many years.

[@frankburdi1001]

I already have 3 couches in my house so that's why I don't have a big twin. To take the Nimble Sportster and slap it into the turn... that's where it's at. Real motorcycling. Nuffsaid

[@user-fk2dm5oy9f]

If I bought my 1st Harley, I'd get a sportster 72 model. I love the look of it.

[@toniachetwood8887]

In my opinion it is the best looking Harley, if they were that bad then why have they sold so many, and lasted so long in the history of Harley.

[@keithdoidge9265]

Great episode,laughed at the rooster's input 😊, funny that what you talk about has made it to the UK, I've heard vrod,and big twin owners say the sportster is a ladies bike or complain that they're stopping for fuel before the bigger bikes, but folk have also said that the sporty is the most reliable Harley and I love the nightster but then I fell in love with the Evo softail 😍 I think the sportster is probably better suited to British roads, but I'm getting used to scraping the floorboards now 😁

[@buttcrackcycles]

I think a Sportster on your winding, narrow roads would be a great time, throw in some dirt hedgerow paths and I'm in!

[@keithdoidge9265]

Yeah I'm thinking maybe when I've sorted the softail I might try to make room in the shed for a sportster 👍

[@nicolamullings7993]

Well said.... I love mine, 1998, 1200 top end and stage 1. Happy plodding along or scratching the pegs or off with the tent... no wind shield, no fridge, no stereo....

[@toddoverby5538]

I think a lot of people love them. I am a softail owner but I love the sportsters. They are the best sounding, most durable, and inexpensive bike Harley has ever made. I keep my eyes out for one all the time. I will get another one at some point.

[@GJM866]

Back in the 90's I had a 1983 HD XLH 1000 sportster. All original, low mileage, perfect condition. Kept it for a couple years rode it, and loved it. Wish I had it back!

[@Kris_Stiletto]

I have an 03, 100 Year Anniversary FXSTS Springer Softail. It's an absolutely beautiful Bike that I will never part with. But, I also, absolutely luv my 05 Rubbermounted XL883C/XL1200SE that I built in my Garage, at Home, by myself. My first HD was a 1979 1000cc Iron Head Roadster, I bought in 1981, in Killeen, Texas, when I was Stationed at Ft. Hood, when I was 20 years old and in the Army. To me, Sportsters are my favorites to ride. I don't care what other's say, "Sportsters absolutely ROCK!!!" Yes, my BIg Bike is much more comfortable on the Highway. But, when I just want to have fun around the City or on short rides, I absolutely luv my Sporty the best. And, this is coming from a Person that has been riding Harley's for 43 years and has owned 2 FXR's, 1 Dyna, 1 Softail, and 3 Sportsters over my lifetime. And, did I mention how much easier the Evo Sportsters are to work on or modify to your size and style. Anybody can get a HD Manual for their year of Sporty and rebuild or fix anything wrong with it on their own, in their Garage, at Home; I am living proof of that. And, there's inexpensive parts everywhere for Sportsters. I totally agree, Sportsters "ROCK!!!" :-) Peace, Stiletto :-)

[@bill392]

I've been riding naked bikes since '83. I started on a '73 Honda 350 Four that I found lying outside behind a farmer's barn and bought it for $50. Suzuki Madura 700, Honda V65, and others. I test drove a Fat Boy in 2009 and hated how heavy it was. I bought a '09 Sportster 1200 Custom off the showroom floor and I'm still riding that one. Mustang solo seat, Progressive shocks, LED lighting, and a V&H stage one setup. Amazing sound, super reliable, 4.5G tank for long range. I love it. Everywhere I go, it gets the looks and curious people ask lots of questions about it. At 60yo, I think this Sportster will be my last and best bike.

[@FASTLANEMOTO]

Dude thank you for this. Very informative with a lot of good historical facts to back it up. I have a vid out called “Why I bought an Indian instead of a Harley” where I touch on the subject of the Sportster and I confront some of the stereo types etc….you are talking about….. I’ve been called names…hated on… basically harassed to some degree(not like I care) but I’ve also received a lot of comments that support what we’re both saying. Appreciate it dude!

[@lilynorthover8378]

Your Indian is very slick though 😎

[@ironhead2521]

I am 52 and have always road a sporty! from iron heads to evos, choppers and bobbers! and love them! they are the most versatile Harley ever made! and will never own anything but!

[@benweiss4807]

I rode my 96 1200 from the Chicagoland area to the UP of Michigan. A painful ride, lots of fuel stops. But it was an awesome time.

[@David-pp9fk]

I bought a 2015 sportster c with 300 miles coming up on two years ago.I just hit 16,000 on it yesterday.From Phx Az to Tulsa,Tulsa to South Fork Colorado and back.From Tulsa to Santa Fe New Mexico.I love the bare bones style of it.Great video Bro I am glad to see another Sportster lover out there.❤ From Oklahoma!

[@edwinbrown3303]

I like the big touring bike for open hiway ,but love the smaller bike for short trips around town. Life is short have both.

[@philraper3870]

Same here

[@chrisinfiesto835]

I grew up in the 60s & 70s. Bronson rode a Sportster & Big William Smith rode a Sportster. I love my Sportster! 💯🤙🏽😎

[@michaelmitchell5909]

I love motorcycles in general, dont matter what brand it is....metric or american, i love em all.

[@lawnboyfromhell817]

1995 Hugger with a 1200 conversion, love it! Had to put on a bigger tank and saddlebags, easy to handle and way less Tupperware to take off if you want to fix something.

[@boomdawg56]

I have an Ultra, great on road trips, I have a 1980 Ironhead, a 2010 883 Iron and a 2016 1200cc 72 Sportster that are great for road trips and everything else. When I am out on a bar night with all the guys telling me I neede a "real bike", my response is usually to "try to keep up".

[@buttcrackcycles]

Right on!

[@eviljesus1482]

I love em. The xl1200 is light and plenty big enough to do stupid stuff, more agile than a bigger 900+ lb bike. Love a bagger "big boy" bike for long trips, but prefer a smaller frame bike for town and fun rides, backroad camping at fishing holes etc.

[@keenanwilson2335]

I see both sides. I had an 883 for years and i loved the look, but long rides were pretty tough. Trying to keep up with my dad on his Fatboy was a pain. But because of the price tag, im looking at getting a 48 just so i have something again lol

[@jerrylong381]

I've rode my 72' XLCH since 96' and love it! It's a blast! Ive heard all the "when ya gonna get a real bike" and "it's a girls bike" shit. Fuck em. Ride what you want, or what you can afford. At 61 years old I bought one of those bikes that sat for years. I found a deal on a 2000 Heritage with 11,000 miles on it. Gave the Sporty to my son and it will stay in the family, as will the Heritage I'm sure. So now I can take long trips in comfort, and this thing even has one of them new fangled electric legs on it, so no more kicking. But really, when it's tuned right, the Sportster starts in 4 kicks cold and first kick warm.

[@coreycallahan7443]

I love Sportster just as much as I love my Heritage Softail and Electraglide Ultra Limited. It’s the next bike I’m going to get to add to the pack. I’m 61 years old now and I need my bigger bikes for long distance comfort and 2 up riding. The Sportster is going to be my rip around town bike. There’s something about the classic Sportie with the peanut tank that really turns my crank. They are very visceral to ride and they’re so full of history. I don’t see how anyone can hate them unless they’ve never ridden one.

[@caseyfreeman3994]

I rather not ride the big heavy bikes. Trying to stop one or manuver it when an idiot pulls out in front of you is not fun at all. I choose the sporty

[@jimkraft9445]

I rode an 84 Iron Head Sporty for 23 years. Great fun bike. I now ride a 99 Softail Custom for the comfort of my 82 year old body. It is like sitting in my Lazy Boy. But I still love Sportsters. I never missed an episode of Then Came Bronson.

[@howardbull9001]

I have a 1200 custom Sporty and I love the sound and appearance of it. It's my first Sporty and I can't see me having to buy another. If I was to change it would probably be a Triumph Bonneville or somesuch ride which, to be honest, is Triumph's version of the Harley Sportster.

[@exexpat11]

Only thing to hate is the Postage Stamp sized seats and suspensions. It can be fixed easily.

[@turbosure7873]

I bought a 79 XLH in 1978 and I never heard any of the derogatory stuff some KZbin videos talk about. I was around real bikers back then, guys who rode every day and I mean raining sideways and even snow, nothing stopped them. All they called it was a nice bar hopper. Although I sold that bike years ago I still have a 79 XLH thats the same color as the first one. Back then you didn’t own a Harley for image or prestige, you owned one because you really liked riding that bike. Really good video, keep it up.

[@BNatoAk]

Love my sporty xl1200l as much as my road glide. Different, but each serves a purpose!

[@awalk56]

I've owned a few Sportsters. Start buying bigger in the early eighties. I got spoiled, thinking I'll never devolve back to riding a Sportster. Well, ten years ago I flipped a ratrod for 5k & a 2004 Sporty. Nice, bobbed out, pipes, solo, etc... I loved it. Every time I rode it it was like the thrill I got the first time. My Dyna sat. My youngest Son passed in 2015 and I got his bike so I gave the Sporty to my oldest Son. Still got the Dyna but now knocking on 70's door I'd have no problem with putting a bandaid on my ego and devolving back to riding a Sporty. Bikes are much like clothing, buy to fit your ass, not your ego.

[@buttcrackcycles]

Well said

[@user-sp1oq2vy4d]

Been riding Harleys for 50 years.......love the Sportsters, together with the FXR and V rods they are the performance bikes

[@1up4down35]

I have never been into Harleys - only Sportsters... And I have had a few - currently a 4 speed 1990 evo with 1275 kit and sporty cams - best bike ever!

[@kellyharden9894]

I've had two sportsters. Have a triumph now and I like it but the sportster was a great work bike . Had 4.5 tank and got close to 50 mpg. Will be getting another one.

[@akybosule]

4:20 exactly what I thought after I rode my first sportster. Raw feeling!

[@gcdiver]

Love my '02 883 Hugger Sporty. In fact, many people I've met that ask me about my bike have mentioned that they had one in the past and wished they hadn't sold it. It's a great bike, looks good, sounds good, very reliable, easy to maneuver, easy to customize, has been the longest running model from H-D, and is fast enough to do just about anything you need it to.

[@joshpitts25]

Love my 71 xlh. It was my dad's and will be my son's. Still running points and basically stock and will stay that way. Maybe that's why it's still running.😅 I enjoy that xlh more than any bike I own.

[@michaelmitchell1426]

I have a 1982 Harley-Davidson Sportster that I bought new in '82. I also have a 1996 FLHTC-I that I got in '97. But still love the shit outta my Sportster! I'll keep Her till I die(I'm looking into ways to have her buried with me).

[@timcarter7616]

Back when I was starting to ride I had a Triumph and rode with some outlaw types, friends of a neighbor. I told them I was working toward buying a Harley. They would let me try out their old FLs and choppers now and then. It felt like I had to herd those bikes around corners, keep the speeds down because the brakes were a little weak and I didn't like riding them as much as I thought I would. A dude named Jack lent me his '65 Sportster and I knew I needed one of these. I've had two now, a 1977 XLCH and a 2014 72.

[@sleethmitchell]

i had a 1969 ch. that year was the last year of the battery-less magneto fired sportster. people would trade in the slower big twins (one of my pals even traded in a fully functioning 1947 chief for one!). the ch was faster. it's THAT simple. the 'h' sportster had electric start. before electric starts NOBODY called a ch a 'girl's bike'. it's all marketing. the sporty i have today is a '1200'. they won't call it a '74' even tho 1200cc is 74 cubic inches. it's ALL marketing.

[@eloyanzaldua7433]

I ride heritage n deluxe bikes but love the sporties equally at age 59 and really enjoy at my age now, rebuilding the sporties!

[@jeffward9174]

Thanks for supporting the sportster. I've got a 2000 sportster bored out to 1200 cc because I tow a trailer for camping.. it cruises nicely at 55 mph all day. I also have a 2006 softail standard 1450 fxsti. It's a great bike. I also have a BSA A10 650. A Triumph T140V Bonneville A Noron commando 850 Mk 111. A Jawa 350 finally a 1975 IZH 350 Sport. Yes they ALL get ridden, no one comments on the smaller capacity machines such as the Triumph or Norton . After all they are a 750 and 850 . Yet my sportster is seen as a girly bike. In the uk the speed limit for towing a trailer for any vehicle is 55mph. I've had mine briefly up to 103 mph. It copes very well and it also handles very well. If my sportster is a girls bike then my Norton that easily does 120 mph is a beginners bike. I ignore all the naysayers and do my own thing.

[@allaboutkalergi5012]

I've always LOVED them, even the AMF models. 😁😁

[@reckfxr4207]

I ride a '14 Sportster 1200 C. Mini apes, no windscreen, wind in my face. This bike is nimble and it rips! No problem keeping up with ride buddies on bigger bikes. I love the hot rod rumble and lighter weight capability. Scrape them pegs in the twisties!

[@douglaswright5689]

I had an XLS iron head for seven years. Loved it!

[@johnschnellbach986]

I've owned Sportsters. Love em, but being 6'3", I'm way to big for them. There is no reason to hate the most reliable engine Harley ever made, which is the Evo Sportster.

[@cmccmc6946]

Sportster owner here. 2000 1200s.

[@davidhakes3884]

I Loved my Sportster/Ironhead, I call them the honda 90 of Harleys. Knobby tires and special shocks they are fun in the dirt.

[@Kevin_747]

I ignore all those stupid remarks. Arguably the best engine HD ever made in regard to pushrod angles with 4 cams. I'm 71 and have owned a Sportster since 1969. I have other bikes but will always have a Sportster or two.

[@arthurleino]

My first Harley was a 1980 Sportster. I saved my money to buy one. After buying it sold my 1978 Yamaha XS650 Special. Wish I had either one of them now. I like my 1983 FXWG, but my Sportster was better on the curves!

[@corbinhbucknerjr558]

I bought a 1979 XS650 Special new, and feel the same way. It had a tendency to eat rectifiers, but man those were some seriously beautiful bikes.

[@arthurleino]

Yamaha sent a fix to the dealers for that problem. Mine did that, then was fixed.

[@jordongee2347]

Have a 21 street bob, and a 13 883 sporty. While the sporty aint got no where near the power, the spund and feel of that little 883 outdoes the bigger bike all day every day. I'll never get rid of it, especially now its done away with. Plans though are a 1275 kit, and possibly a wider tree somewhere down the line. Picked up some 1200 heads, and a new primary setup to drop the rpms just a touch, other than that, haters gonna hate. But I'll tell ya, people look at that sporty a LOT more than the softtail 100%, especially on start up.

[@elainebudd7589]

Greetings From Siberia ( Northern Canada ) Hi, I enjoyed this video as well as your others and think that you are doing a good job ,keep doing what you are doing . I will give you a little background information here first before I get into things regarding this topic . This response will show as coming from Elaine Budd who is my wife , my name is Gary . The reason for this is because when we purchased the new computer system our son in law set it up in my wife's name . I am a licenced motorcycle and automotive mechanic , ( two seperate licences ) as well as a retired competitive racer . I currently own five Ironhead sportsters which includes two rare ones as well as two shovelheads . I am a long time Ironhead rider and will never be without one , in my opinion they are one of the best bikes you could have . A properly loved and maintained Ironhead is a joy to ride and will take you where you want to go . A sportster is lighter , quicker, easier to work on and especially can't be beat for riding around town . I have never understood the hate or paid any attention to it , the remarks usually come from people who know nothing about motorcycles in general or they reiterate something that they heard .When I worked at the local Harley Dealership , there would always be less Sportsters in for work compared to big twins . Harley made and makes different models to suit different peoples tastes and what kind of motorcycle they want to ride . The Sportster was one of the longest running models in production , that should tell the average person something . There would be no FX models if the Sportster never existed because in 1971 they grafted a Sportster front end onto a FLH and the FX series was born . To me it doesn;t matter what someone rides , the fact that they are riding is what counts . Many of my friends have multiple motorcycles of many different makes and they ride and enjoy all of them . I love my 75 Shovelhead and my 82 Shovelhead FXR, ( the FXR is currently getting some updates and hopefully will be on the road this season ) . When asked how you would compare a Shovel to a Sportster my standard answer would be the same but different . They each share some similarities and differences , my Sportsters are quicker , more responsive to rider input where as the Shovel has long legs and and I find myself at times riding at a faster road speed . They are both good at what they were designed to do . I have often said why would you want to muscle a 900 pound bike around town when you could be riding a 500 pound bike that does everything well . If you are travelling and putting the miles on then yes a bagger may be what you need but everything else will still get you there and you will still be enjoying yourself .. There is no right or wrong answer here to choice of bike to ride , ride what you like and pay no attention to whatever someone has to say . If I could only have one motorcycle it would be a Ironhead , I'm partial to the 78 and back models but love all of them . I'd love to have a 83-84 XR 1000 and at some point maybe this will happen . I'm retired now due to health issues but still spend a good part of my day in my shop working on my projects and keeping the bikes maintained . I rotate most of them during the riding season . In regards to Shovelhead prices I think you did all right. I see where the prices really fluctuate depending on where you live and it's always best if you are able to see a bike before purchasing . Everybody has a budget , ( usually ) so always try to find a running one and the closer to stock the better . I've seen what appeared to be some nice ones going for reasonable money, four to six thousand depending on seller and condition of motorcycle including my 75 that I bought a number of years ago . I think the old fossil has ranted long enough for now . Take care my Friend . From The North Siberian Cycles Gary

[@TheJurgen1973]

i own a Sportster 48 and i do not even want a bigger Harley , to me a forty-eight contains all of the ingredients from Harley's racing history, it is low, it is light, looks great and has a ton of torque, perfect enough for me......

[@JayBirdNJ.]

Great video, you made excellent points. The "real bikers" in my area meet at the WAWA every week and that's all they ever ride. 2015 bikes with under 4k miles. Where as my 95' Sporty with the Edel Brock jugs and Quicksilver carb is way faster and a lot more fun in my opinion. Sportys can be much more than a bike than gets you into the game, it can also be a game changer.

[@seH2i]

Thank you. I'm 65 years old, been riding since I turned 11 and owned many Harleys & other brands including Triumph and Royal Enfield. Last year when I heard the Air Cooled Sportster was going away I purchased a 2012 '72' model for $7,500. It had only 3,843 miles. The previous owner did some engine work, installed a low to mid range cam and it has Vance & Hines Short Shots. I've had several Sportsters over the years and I meant to purchase this one and keep it. A while ago on a thread a guy commented Sportsters are girls bikes. I reminded him that there are more women riding today maybe the same amount as men on Big V Twins. So using his calculations if I ride a Big V Twin today I'm riding a girls bike. 3 years ago I stopped at the local Dairy Bar with my Orange 2003 883 R that was built up to around 1280cc and Screamin Eagle 2 into 1 exhaust no baffle. A guy I knew from years ago was there and remarked, "why you riding THE little bike?" IT'S FAST I REPLIED. Here's the thing though, for decades, that guy rode Sportsters but now that he's Bagger Nation he's got an attitude. I don't care. I love a Sportster just for the reasons you described. I have a 2007 stripped down Olive Pearl Ultra Classic Twin Cam with wide white walls & a 2 into 1 Cobra exhaust. When the temps are over 85° I hate riding it - too much F'N heat from the engine. So on cooler days for longer rides it's the Ultra . . . . . occasionally ! I'm a disabled veteran & I can hop on that Sportster any day and have fun - it's a therapy bike for me. I'm 'in tune' with the riding experience. Grandfather John Pennsylvania USMC Beirut Veteran

[@edlee9805]

Its one of thier better designs but just a little small engine wise and narrow,and feels top heavy.

[@mrmatt7210]

First let me say, there is nothing wrong with a Sportster. The Sportster is a light weight, nimble bike which has more than adequate power for your needs. However, its a smaller bike with a tight riding position (if your approaching 6ft in height) and a suspension which needs improving for a bit more comfort. In addition, these two issues become worse if you are riding two up. Thankfully, the aftermarket welcomes Sportster owners and there are a wide variety of upgrades in which to improve your Sportster to fit your needs. However, if your on a budget, it may be just as reasonable to purchase a Dyna rather than a Sportster + Upgrades. In the end, ride whatever tickels your giggle button and dont concern yourself with others opions. For what its worth, i would love to have a 1200 Iron Sportster for an around town scoot.

[@MrGus4440]

I have 1974 XLCH. Any woman that can start bike, you better call her Ma’m

[@freyatilly]

I have always had Harley Sportsters from '88 to date. So easy to ride and so very stable. The 70s/80s were a bad time for Harley. But you are right in most ways. It is a very honest bike. Raw Naked and Real.

[@lawrencesportello1080]

You said it right man. Screw all of that furniture.

[@martincvitkovich724]

1969 Cycle World..The Sportster will grow hair on your chest then part it down the middle".It was never a 'girls bike until it came with a electric leg

[@wyleddawg6130]

As a 62 year old old lady.....owned a 62/76/and currently a 2013 1200 custom sporty....At this age I absolutely love being called a Girl! 😂

[@Andy-yy2fg]

Friend of mine had '78 XL1000, two years later bought FXRS Lowrider, having ridden them both the Sportser was the most 'motorcycley'.

[@cdpc211]

I ain't paying for a touring bike that costs $30k. I rather ride on my Sporster around the city.

[@lawnboyfromhell]

Anybody that bugs you about what you ride, is probably still making payments on their new leather jacket.

[@buttcrackcycles]

That's hilarious I love it

[@girthquake9655]

I picked my 883 over a dyna. The sportser just spoke to me on the test ride. I also owned a 1984 ironhead so sportsters will always have a spot in my heart.

[@zeerozeero243]

I’ve had two of them a 2016 XL1200 and a 2019 XL 1200 NS Iron loved them both, great bikes to ride.

[@MarkPalmer1000]

My XLH Ironhead is the around town and back road bike. My long trip and highway bike is a Kawasaki Concours 14. I learned early on not to care about what others think about the bike you ride.

[@fps636]

Sportsters Rule. Those who hate, don't understand...

[@paulmarion7578]

I love all sportsters from 1970 or earlier but also the 1978 sportster and that’s it .