Why I Sold My Harley Davidson Sportster Roadster

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[@kaipokali]

I love my Roadster! And the fact they stopped making it, it's now a collector's item 👍🏽

[@KevXRDuke]

No it's not.

[@marsoelflaco5722]

Hey, you scratched your Harley itch.👏🏽 You live and you learn. Make no apologies. 🎅

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

I did and I'm glad I got the ownership experience.

[@kennypool]

My neighbor sold me his Honda shadow because " he had to buy the sportster". A year later he wants to buy the Honda back.

[@StratfordWingRider]

As a Shadow VT750 owner I’d believe it. Shadow build quality is fantastic for what it is.

[@kennypool]

@@StratfordWingRider Yes, I've never had trouble with Honda's,. And find the shadow extremely trouble free. Great value for the money

[@KevXRDuke]

Shadows are cheap. He could have both bikes.

[@geraldscott4302]

I've owned a truckload of Japanese cruisers. But after getting a Sportster 8 years ago, I will never have another one.

[@frankmarkovcijr5459]

I use my Evo Sportster for 20 plus years riding back and forth to work. Riding to temporary job assignments job interviews Etc. Use the bike for anything and everything it has been such a good motorcycle but even for the person who bought it I can't imagine paying so much for insurance that doesn't make any sense at all. Merry Christmas and happy New Year and happy Boxing Day.

[@richbitch3240]

I remember at the Dealership I work at. We had the Roadsters not selling at all because of the seating position. Until we decided to put an Iron 883 Handlebar on there. After that the customers loved the bike

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yeah, good idea. I can see how that would make a difference.

[@thomasmotorcycleman1175]

That's funny...because for me. The handlebars are one of my favorite part of the roadster!...I'm considering putting them on my xr1200x! Different riders like Different styles I guess....ride!

[@geraldscott4302]

Exactly what I would have done. I like the stock bars on my 2006 1200 Low. I also still have the thin stock seat, which looks uncomfortable, but even at 64, I have done 400 mile days with no serious discomfort. The low seat makes it easy to get on and off.

[@calebgriffiths9062]

Had a 2007 Sportster Roadster for 7 years. Spent a fortune on upgrades, bu gave up and bought a KTM. 10 years later no regrets. I like things like fuel gagues, decent brakes, handling, grunt and a lot less weight.

[@raybligh9896]

I love my Roadster. Each to his own! Glad it went to a fan of the Sportster. Ride safe!

[@indiorider8539]

No love loss at the end of your story with the HD. Your decision on keeping it or getting rid of it (for financial reasons) was best! I still have yet to ride my RodKing after I bought my Indian. But yet still pay the insurance on it. I believe you made the right move and congrats on riding as many bikes as you can for your venture! Hasta luego!

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yeah, I do like riding all the bikes. I get all the fun without the costs or responsibilities of ownership.

[@naturalforlife6741]

It all depends on what brings you joy. The secret to life.

[@bernardlesperance742]

In my case, a great only-bike. At under 5'7' and about 135 lbs, anything bigger just feels too big and heavy - as much as I'd love to ride a pre-2018 Fat Boy. My XL1200L (Low) is perfectly put together for me. In amazing condition. Only changed the bars to have less pull back (keep the wrists straighter) and the rear shocks for better rebound (Legend). Otherwise pretty much stock (with added HD windshield, HD heated grips, HD GPS, and Le Pera seat by previous owner - don't use any of them! . . . except the seat of course!). And chrome wire wheels option. So lots of chrome. Kept original lighting to maintain very classic look. Lots of very positive comments whenever I'm out on it. Wouldn't trade or sell it for anything else. A keeper ! We'll grow old together . . .

[@daveinwla6360]

Thanks for the in-depth explanation for you choice. I would have been wondering...

[@johnanderson9735]

I had an EVO style motor in a 1200 Super Low. You are correct on the seating position, and for me the engine heat, and the separated turn signals ultimately did not make sense. I am encouraged that HD is making changes like in the Sportster S and the Nightster. HD needs to keep moving into more competitive market segments like they did with the Pan America, the teased Street Fighter / Bronx is really needed as the next step. For me my Africa Twin makes more sense as an all around machine like your Tenere 700.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yep, riding an ADV bike kind of ruins you and shows you why they're so popular.

[@jeroennijs5860]

How tall are you? I am looking for a roadster, but this video has some very useful information that makes me think if i should buy one. Thanks

[@johnDukemaster]

Funny thing with Harley's. It's like they wants to build a bike. They look at the shelfs and create something with that. And if they use new designs/materials, the customers says "NO, that's not a Harley!" Strange world!

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

You nailed it. Sometimes it's like they can't win.

[@skandix]

Enjoy what you have, not everyone is suited for a a HD, most of the time you have to make the bike fit you. You did the right thing.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Thanks! Next time I get a Harley it will have forward controls.

[@edwinbrown3303]

I was more surprised you brought a Harley in the first place, but not surprised you sold it.

[@dshall442]

Well, my $.02... you made the right choice... 5 years from now it would have been worth less than you got for it now...

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Probably true, especially in North America.

[@skydiver6711]

Why would you buy a Harley when you can buy a Honda?

[@egalitarianvegan8806]

My friend had a 07 Sportster with standard foot pegs. With my 36 inch inseam it was painful to ride. My 05 Sportster with the forward pegs and shifter works perfect for me with a custom Corbin seat that allows me to sit further back. I certainly understand your not keeping it.

[@positivelynegative9149]

I had a Sportster very briefly. I wish I could get another. Maybe some day.

[@LooxJJ]

I bought 2016 original barebones Roadster. It’s my only bike. For me, it’s a do-it-all wonder bike that will do a lots of mileage. I am looking into buying a Suzuki Vstrom 1050 for longer trips.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

That's a good pair. I wouldn't want to tour on the Roadster but the V-Strom will do well.

[@jeffreystorer4966]

I ride an o7 sportster custom it handles well goes fast enough ,race tuner pipes air cleaner, haven't ridden the 48 style but they really don't. Look very comfortable and seem a lot smaller side by side ,ride what fits your own frame is key , haven't had any problem with mine built well runs a treat n not to painful on long runs ,ditch the stock seat

[@terryboyle]

You have broken my heart. I had never even considered this bike until you featured it. Now you have talked me out of it. How fickle can i be, just watch me.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

It just didn't fit me. But fit is a very personal thing so it doesn't mean it won't fit you.

[@frankmarkovcijr5459]

The things with the adventure bikes is that you need a step ladder to get on most of them.

[@felipedourado5721]

Motorcycles should provide pleasure, even if they are rode mostly for commuting to work, school, or other everyday obligations we all have. If the riding experience isn't rewarding, then sell the machine and buy some other bike that fits your needs. Or, as you did, keep the most satisfying steed that you already have. So, I guess you did the right move. Regards from Brazil. ✌

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Thanks! Enjoy the good weather out there.

[@felipedourado5721]

@@DifferentSpokesTV Sure I will. Down here, at the tropics, the riding season lasts 12 months.😉

[@felipedourado5721]

@@crispindry2815 Hello Crispin Dry, I do my best to write correctly but I'm not a native english speaker. I guess such information is implied to the fact that I wrote I am from Brazil. I appreciate the writting suggestions you gave me, but I'm also curious. Did you understand the overall meaning of my message? And If you did, what was your motivation to suggest some corrections on my writting? Peace from Brazil. ✌

[@DarthVader-1701]

If I ever get a sportster it will be an XL1200C, I sat on one of those 1200 customs and it felt bigger than the iron despite having the same engine, It does have a slightly bigger seat and a 4.5 gallon tank.

[@PHICEN]

When you find the “one bike that can do it all” please do a video on that!

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

The T7 can do it all except for enduro. Everything is a compromise.

[@thinkingimpaired5663]

Reminds me of why I sold my boat. The happiest day is when I bought my boat and the day when I sold my boat.

[@sway721]

I have a 2006 xL1200r and I love it

[@arturomadrid1147]

I just purchased a 2016 Roadster. Fun ride, nice aesthetics. Curious what wind screen was that you put on it. I am looking for one and can’t seem to find a style that is functional. That one looked good..

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

It was one that was for sale at the Harley dealer. I'm not sure if they still carry the part because they discontinued the bike in 2021. Maybe a dealer can track it down for you.

[@spritual_enlightenment]

HD has an exceptional image but never value for money. 😁

[@chistogo3]

I literally have the same Harley as you did. I end up riding my old Honda rebel 250 more since it’s just easier to jump on and go. Plus it’s less loud for neighbors. Still a really cool bike though

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yeah, I liked the bike. But if another bike does the same stuff with less fuss you start to question why you have it.

[@seisamigos397]

That’s the problem with the T7. It does it all and everything else sits! 😉

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yeah, not a bad problem to have.

[@ChowTY42]

Thanks for the video. I’ll stick with the triumph rocket 3 then

[@alicemacdonald1550]

nice guitar! 😺

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Thanks! 😃 Unfortunately I sold that a while ago because I didn't play it enough.

[@denerumsby6789]

The bars and footpegs look really similar to my first Harley- a bog basic 1996 Sportster 883. The riding position was basically medieval torture with low bars and your legs uncomfortably bent. Changed it for a WideGlide after 2 years and loved the difference BTW insurance in Canada sounds like a horrendous rip off Got my 05 FXDWG insured fully comprehensive for £133 for the year Perhaps you should consider moving to England!

[@HarleysDinersRides]

Lori had a 2003 silver anniversary 1200 custom Sportster. She traded it in on her Victory Kinpin and latertraded that in for her current bike a 2008 Softtail Deluxe. Looking back what we got for a trade in on the Sportster...wish I had of kept it.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yeah, I'll miss it, but being a new bike I'm happy with the price I got for it. Pretty close to what it originally cost.

[@Thunder_Bear_mg]

I don't like the stock handle bars on the xl1200r. However, I sat on one with high rise tracker bars with some sweep back (similar to stock iron 883 bars) which made it a lot more comfortable.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yeah, that would have been good. I still would have had to swap out the saddle.

[@nathansuka5302]

I was interested in buying a second bike to do other purposes. But your video gives me a second thought.😅

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

My feeling is that if your bike does all, why pay for a second?

[@exothermal.sprocket]

The Sporty... It's beautiful to look at and sounds wonderful. So does a Zenith Cobra-matic all speed phonograph. But I think I would still rather use an iPod Touch.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Good analogy.

[@trekkydelirium-vroom5821]

Good move 👍🏼

[@saddle8bag]

Needed bar risers for sure. Maybe putting the rearsets on fixes the position too in a more sporty way. If the bars were a few inches higher and maybe back an inch, it'd make a nice neutral riding position. I take it your legs are longer than your wife's. Hers look pretty relaxed on it. That reach to the bars made her ride like a hunchback though @ 3:34. There are a lot of sporties, but yours was my favorite. The color, wheels, longer travel suspension, decent brakes made it far better than the avg sporty. Doesn't usually make sense to own such a thing for appreciation. There was a sporty back in '83 or '84 called an XR1200 that was an exception. They were about $4k back then which was too rich for my blood at the time. Earlier this century, I would see them on Ebay occasionally fetching $15k or so. I haven't seen any around for a while now, though I really haven't been looking.

[@roguecheddar]

Might I suggest an Indian Springfield. My stunning 2019 Indian Springfield in steel gray and burgundy metallic, and I, concur, Cruiser Heaven, all day, every day!

[@keessnyders9449]

I've followed a similar path; I bought a 2006 Sportster this year, but I haven't sold my Moto Guzzi yet because the Harley hasn't impressed me that much. Lots of power and torque, but less than half the fuel range of my V7. Still undecided what I am going to do with it.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yep. Harleys have great character but so do Moto Guzzis, and a V7 corners a lot better.

[@akitafriends290]

The more uncomfortable you are the more important comfort gets. Nicely said. p.s. Canadian, the guitar in the intro....you actually are Brian Adams, right?

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

If I was Brian Adams I'd be tooling around on a CVO :)

[@zacharyfett2491]

Nobody “plans” to get a new Harley, it just kind of happens. 😂 Very cool about the press bike development!

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Thanks! Yep, maybe I'll find another one someday.

[@CaledoniaKeys]

Insurance is definitely a factor. Too bad we can’t just insure the rider at least on the liability side without jacking up the costs significantly with each additional bike. Ride on!

[@robertlindstrom540]

You live in Canada which means that you propably also quit riding for the winter half of the year, just like us who live in Sweden. So to find the time to ride more than one bike must be a chore in itself. I have a bike and also a boat, and always have a hard time to find the time to really enjoy both to the full. The nice season is short and there is more to life than just riding bikes or going out to sea (unfortunately). So I completely get your reasons to sell, better to have just the one bike that you use the most.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yep, we northern folk don't get that much time to enjoy our summers and somehow I just never got into skiing.

[@gobear83]

The sportsters have alway been designed for people less than 5’8” surprised you didn’t feel like a pretzel riding that bike. Back in 1991 I had a weak moment and bought an 883 and quickly found that being 6’2” it was way too small a bike. Took it for one ride and my hands promptly fell asleep , boy that thing ever vibrate Didn’t sell it ended up installing a Fat Bob tank , softail fender and a bunch of chrome , custom paint and my wife rode it a couple of years till she transitioned to a BMW R1100 R. What it did was etch Harley firmly in my mind…. There was just something about the sound and yearns later between all the Yamaha, Honda, Suzuki, Triumph, Kawasaki , I managed to owned and ride the wheels off four baggers…2005, 2007, 2009, 2010… never got tired of the sound and on a long ride in cruise it was like sitting in an easy chair…I will always cherish those days. Great review.. BTW …. You’ll be back , its impossible to get it all out of your head. Ride Safe

[@markmcminn5100]

Good choice. 750cc is the max I would ever want. 30+ years riding.

[@DonYang73]

The Roadster is a keeper if you swap to an standard sportster handlebar and further mid controls. Thats what i did. Otherwise it will give you all the issues you mentioned.

[@Jluck78]

Here’s what I want to know: can it handle? It looks like it handles like KLr650 but can it handle fast (ish) sweepers? Can it stay composed on goodish roads? How easy is it to grind the pegs? (This by the way is what every enthusiast is hoping will be answered in motorcycle review but sadly isn’t)

[@wave6413]

And other pressing issues ...... Round glasses will be the change of look a la John Denver is required....KTM790 to rule them all ... But I do agree the Evo is sweet and indeed I do want one, but it will be a 48 with at least a stage 1 and it will be the club bike (umm not that kind of club). And the CMX 1100 is also a grand machine

[@sandyadventures]

I have a 2007 Roadster, I was the only owner, my teens want it. I am old and want a touring bike... Thank God insurance is cheaper where I live. I might keep it, but l like you I want a bike I will use.. . Such a tough decision.. but I have time because I can't afford the new one at this time. The poor Man's Harley is fine for now. What would you do in this situation?

[@Wintersdark]

With that said - I get it. I had an ironhead sportster, and while I loved it... I'd never ride it instead of my Tenere or Tracer.

[@BarnettSpeedSuzukiThou]

Superglide, fatboy and a wide glide over 21 years I rode HD in that order. I may have had a Bronx but ... If I did go back it would be a RoadKing 103. But for now I'm happy on the gsxs-1000, which is more suited to the UK roads and traffic.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

And about 200lbs.

[@graymangw6016]

Got to get the motorcycle that fits you and your type of fun.

[@brandonfields4927]

The only two good things to ever come out of Canada, Phillip and Terrance. Full stop

[@gregorbabic7664]

This is the reality of Ontario insurance. I sold my 2018 VStrom 1000 just because I wasn’t riding it enough to justify the insurance. Loved the bike and kept the tall seat I bought for it for the day I will have more free time for long trips. Meantime my single cylinder bikes keep me entertained. Better someone enjoys the ride and it doesn’t take up garage real estate and enrich the insurance companies.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yeah, what the insurance companies are doing to us is criminal. When I hear what Americans are paying per year in states like Florida where they ride year round I just about cry.

[@Rob-lj1jl]

I feel your pain! I have a 96 Stage 4 and last summer and this summer I might have ridden it 10 times each summer (its so loud and puts my man bits to sleep in 20 mins) and the same with my 1100 Shadow Ace. I almost all the time ride my 840lb Honda Valkyrie Interstate in a 10 miles radius around my place continually. I have issues going further away. 5000km riding in a big circle night after night yet each bike cost me full insurance (no other person is allowed to ride it) Shadow was 80 a month, Sporty 120 a month and the Valk 110 a month yet I can only ride 1 at a time and no other rider is allowed by ICBC to ride them, just me. Now I have a collector plate on the Shadow so next summer it will be about 20-25 a month and I think the Valk will qualify as well since they dont make them anymore so that will drop it to 25. My 96 Sporty is so modded out it cant be a collector. To have the bike as a collector plate (25 years old) you have to have even the original seat and it cant be torn. Original paint and markings. No rust etc I cant believe I own 3 bikes and pay 190 a month for a 10x10 storage garage as well. Something has got to give !!!!!!!!!!! In an effort to separate more money from my bank I might put a chopper front end on the sporty to stretch her out. Then again Im considering buying a low mileage 2012 Triumph Rocket 3 Roadster in the spring from a person I have talked with locally. 145hp, 165 fpt kzbin.info/www/bejne/fGmphIGqhKiUoas

[@frankmarkovcijr5459]

Where do you live? I have Geico Insurance on all of my motorcycles and I pay from $75 to $100 a year for all of them. For $20 above the cost of the full coverage policy which generally runs $100 for my big bike like my Sportster I get unlimited road service too. Full coverage for my Euro sidecar outfit is $75 a year. Full coverage for my genuine / Vespa scooter is $75 a year. I live in Florida where I ride all year round except for hurricane. Before my last major accidents like destroyed my BMW I was putting 30,000 miles a year on that bike alone being retired I go out on a lot of day trips and I don't go out at night cuz I can't see shit and we have all the wild hogs running loose and I don't mean to Harley Riders either talking about the ones that are weigh 900 lb and have great big tusk. I've had my 1999 xlh883 for 20 plus years. It's completely stock except for pipes and a trunk and a windshield and crash bars the engine is stock haven't even done the valves or anything in 400,000 miles the bike runs so cool the oil lubricates so well and it's so low power there's no point in running it flat out when I'm riding on nice little back roads. And I am so pleased to Chinese came out with a part for part copy of an evolution Sportster. It's almost like they were waiting for Harley to discontinue the American made one.

[@Rob-lj1jl]

@@frankmarkovcijr5459 Holy crap! You have 400,000 miles on your sporty? Or was that a typo meaning 40,000? I guess thats why Shadetree Surgeon can afford so many bikes and afford to pretty much get drunk 7 days a week at bars. Cheap insurance. I live in BC Canada and insurance for cars and bikes is expensive just like the guy from Different Spokes says who lives in Ontario, Canada. We get screwed over here. Get charged alot for the bike insurance but have to sign a waiver swearing nobody but me will ride my bikes. So you pay full price on each bike but you can only ride one at a time. Its bullcrap. Money grab as the insurance is owned by the govt here . I mean I should only have to pay one fee that covers all my bikes if nobody but me can ride them. My sporty has 50,000 miles but the engine was stage 4 upgraded only about 8000 miles ago and you know thats pretty much the entire engine other than crank. So I guess Im good to go for another 392,000 miles hehe. This is my bike. I keep thinking about putting one of those chopper front ends on it. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fGmphIGqhKiUoas

[@twowheelboomer]

I ride a DR650 and a HD Ultra Limited. I would not entertain a Sportster, as I really do only two types of riding...dual sport riding for which the DR is perfect and long distance touring, for which the Ultra is well suited if not the best available. Indeed, a touring model is the only type of HD I entertained. When you have a DR, you've got just about everything covered. ;)

[@mikebell2750]

I am a “Harley” and guy, but have never owned a Sportster. My view is if the bike works for you then buy and keep it, if it doesn’t then it’s best to move on (this applies to all styles and brands of bikes).

[@dennisharrison4744]

I got 09 sportster 1200 custom iv got 0 issues with any thing on it only thing i dont like is the battery during covid couldnt find a battery to fit it harley dealer couldnt get them power mine got way plenty power

[@johnelaschat2462]

Dont blame you at all, I have an iron1200 that I bought new in 2018 and I've been trying to sell it, it just sits, i have way more fun on my xr650l

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Nice! I wish Honda hadn't pulled the XR from Canada.

[@davidalder6558]

I think you made a good decision to sell the Harley while you could. There are going to be huge numbers of big bikes and baggers out there for sale as the Baby Boomers, who are mostly not keeping fit, age and cannot lift them off their side stands. Also, you may have to move to Nova Scotia where I insure a Kawasaki Versys X 300 for $110 and a Honda Silverwing 600 for $130/year. By the way, I enjoy your very informative channel and reviews. Keep up the great work. Dave

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Thanks! Yes, Ontario has always been a rip off province. I remember talking to a guy from PEI who was paying 100 bucks a year.

[@monkmoto1887]

Ha almost the same story here brother, but not quite. I bought an 04 roadster in fall 2020 so I could try a harely. It had a 1250 kit and hot cams. I rebuilt the forks with new springs and oil and put new shocks on the rear. I mean, i didn’t hate it.. there are worse bikes out there but it just didn’t do anything well enough for me. It was kind of sort of quick off the lights but it vibrated like a dirt bike, and it was a rubber mounted bike. It cruised ok but the clamshell position and low suspension travel was harder on my back than a sport bike. It handled ok but my little 85 shadow 500 could rip circles around it. It sounded ok but i prefer the howl of a 4cyl. It just wasn’t my cup of tea, id probably take certain metric cruisers over any harely, but I’ll be damned if there’s a cruiser out there that looks like and has the presence of an HD

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yep, exactly. A Rebel 1100 does everything better, but the Harley is better at being a Harley.

[@MrAl67]

I bought a 2022 Low Rider S, put 150kms on it and sold it. The ego’s were not good for me. It looked cool, but I bought a 2022 Rebel 1100, and have a few thousand KM’s on it. Sure it’s ugly, but effective. And it handles, brakes, and works for me.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yes, the Rebel will run circles around the LR on a twisty road. If I had a LR I'd definitely put forward pegs on it before picking it up.

[@alastairtheduke]

I'm with you. Skip the panigales and the mv augustas, give me a kawasaki versys jack of all trades.

[@brianq103]

I sold my Ducati Monster 1200S for the same reason. 2014 with 9800 KM on it. 2021 T7 has 15000 on it, 2016 HD has 75000 on it. Nuf said.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yeah, too many bikes, too little time.

[@filoIII]

Get Buckhorn bars and the game changes.

[@astrozombie989]

I also sold my Roadster, incredibly uncomfortable. I bought a softail standard m8 instead. If I want another evo sportster there’s plenty out there.

[@ragingtyga]

heh congratulations, you just proved the reason why Harley is moving away from the EVO sportys and discontinuing them despite people saying that wasn't a good idea.

[@robertbelote5273]

It all makes sence , do what you do! If you ever get to this side of the border I'll let you ride my iron .

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Cool, thanks!

[@nbrider7235]

The Roadster is my second favourite Sportster, the first being the XR1200 but I don't fit on either of them and I have tried. Too bad you sold it but if you were just keeping it for "investment" purposes you made the right choice.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yeah the XR was fun, but those pegs were very tight and impressively uncomfortable.

[@nbrider7235]

@@DifferentSpokesTV I was going to buy an XR1200 a couple of years ago, had the cash in my pocket when I went to see it with the intent of bringing it home. Then I rode it, at 6'2" the bend in my knees for the pegs was not something that I could have tolerated for very long. I was bummed but had to come home empty handed. I still have to stop myself when I see one for sale, such a good looking bike.

[@KevXRDuke]

I own a XR1200. I am sorry you didn't buy it. It is a keeper. I will never sell mine and it is going to my son.

[@nbrider7235]

@@KevXRDuke You have no idea how much I want one but my surgically repaired knees just aren't compatible with it. If I were rich and could have any number of bikes I would have one for short rides but that is not the case. I'm glad and jealous at the same time that it works for you.

[@flatcapcaferacer]

Many riders some time or another by bikes for their looks and sound. Sometimes they get heavily tweaked to try and overcome the bikes shortcomings. Some as your case decide it really isn't worth it or possible to get it right. I put 35,000 miles on my Sportster over ten years tweaking it with thousands of dollars of accessories and then bought a 1996 Thunderbird which was better bike than the modified Harley for me on day one. A new bike should never be a big project to get it right for you or you got the wrong bike. Harley successfully sells the blank canvas concept, make it yours type of the thing. Adding an exhaust slip on is one thing but ergonomics, handling and performance are steep hills very few can conquer.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Excellent points! As fu as it is to build your ride, it's also expensive. And if you don't have the time to ride the thing there's no point.

[@Rob-lj1jl]

I love the 96 Triumph Thunderbird. I missed out on buying one here a few years back with a cool green union jack on the tank

[@flatcapcaferacer]

@@Rob-lj1jl Mine was British racing green and cream. I put a beautiful sounding stain in tune exhausts with a Corbin gunfighter on it. A buddy still has it.

[@Rob-lj1jl]

@@flatcapcaferacer its nice you get to see it still. Not some stranger riding it.

[@flatcapcaferacer]

@@Rob-lj1jl We have loose coalition of riding buddies who buy and trade motorcycles. We give each other first chance at purchasing before selling outside the group.

[@scottsyl]

We all need to select right motorcycle for ourselves before buying a bike you will complain about shortly after the purchase. As I test rider, you maybe should have walked away from the Roadster after just sitting on it and driving it. I bought a 2019, but I test drove it first and determined the foot pegs were not going to work for me being way too high, fat and wide. But that is easy to fix. Before I took to off the lot, it had billet JOKER Machine pegs on it that solved everything for me, maybe not for you or your readers. These bars are perfect for me (yes me, maybe not you). I bought mine with low miles as a trade in and saved a lot of $$ on insurance and registration, Too many of my riding friends read brochures and stare at pictures and reviews. Please ride them first, and not just around the parking lot.

[@KevXRDuke]

I wouldn't want it either. Especially when they made the XR1200.

[@chopdog]

I know evo Sportster aren't for everyone but I think it's a mistake for HD to drop them. Harley makes much quicker bikes for those who want that, but Sportys make for a nice dependable retro type bike that a lot of us enjoy just tooling lazily around on.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

I agree. Many riders are just into cruising, and the EVO was perfect for that.

[@geraldscott4302]

I would have just put some higher bars on it with more pullback. My 2006 Sportster 1200L has mid controls (forward controls on a Sportster are a bit too forward for me) but higher bars with more pullback, and I find it very comfortable. I am 6' with a 33" inseam. I am NOT a sport rider. I like to take long rides on the open roads. Gentle curves are great, but the knee dragging thing is NOT for me. I have never owned any kind of "sport bike" and never will. To me the most important things about a Sportster are the sound and feel. Otherwise might as well ride a Japanese cruiser. I have had quite a few of those. I've heard about crazy Canadian insurance cost. It costs me less than $100 a year to insure my 1200 Sportster in the U.S. But I do have 6 bikes insured with the same company, and I am the only covered rider, so only one can be ridden at once. 64 years old with a perfect record and 48 years of street riding experience.

[@TheDans7300]

The only EVO Sportster I'd like is the 72. I think the setup is a bit more comfortable than those hunched over cafe wanna be ones.

[@michaelhayward7572]

You may have kept it if it looked like the new owner's, a 2:1 and rearsets are always sensible options for Sportys.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

I like a little more noise but those full exhausts are a bit too much for me. I found the Screamin' Eagle slip-ons sounded just right.

[@michaelhayward7572]

@@DifferentSpokesTV yabbut, you could'nt move the footrests back.

[@davidmacgregor5193]

You obviously bought the XL1200CX with your heart, not your head. A test ride would have confirmed the points that you've mentioned in the video. I've owned my 2011 XL883N from new, I've sorted most of the issues I had with it , apart from the foot pegs, they get in the way of my shins when I'm stopped at traffic lights, I might go for a custom pair of rear set controls, my shins will thank me for that.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yes, I don't understand those mid controls. If the exhaust is in the way Harley should have re-routed the exhaust.

[@jerryandnancywertzbaugher7778]

I've spent 50 years of my motorcycling life not admiring anything about Harleys so you won't get any objections from me.😎 And I don't blame you for not asking for my openion before you bought it either.😘 I will admit that the Roadster does have a certain visual appeal, but so does a Bonnevile 1200 T120 with just as much torque and far lighter handling. I can do 250 miles in a day on my Triumph and still be able to wto the Pub.🧐

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yep, the Triumph is an objectively better bike stock out of the factory.

[@khakimzhanmiras]

they should have just kept building/updating the xr. annual insurance of a thousand dollars for an evo owned by an adult is insane, especially considering it’s a second/third bike.

[@thomasmotorcycleman1175]

Yes, this bike's bars and pegs seem to not match...but just put one or both feet on the passenger pegs as I do....I have 16 bike's 2 of them are roadsters..which are 2 of the funnest bike's to ride..i likethe aggressive riding position...not for you I guess. .no worries ..ride!

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yep, I've had my feet on the passenger pegs before but they were too high and back.

[@thomasmotorcycleman1175]

@DifferentSpokesTV I'm 5'8"...short legs...works great for me....I like feeling like I'm going fast but not going so fast for a bad ticket!!

[@mickangio16]

I had a '94 1200 Sportster that had Harley Davidson forward controls on it when I bought it. The original mid controls were also included with the bike and I originally intended to reinstall them. As it turned out I liked the forward controls on the Sportster and considered them perfect (for me, anyway). They gave a very similar riding position to my floorboard equipped Shovelhead that I liked very much. I had a friend with an earlier model Sportster with what I guess were aftermarket forward controls and were awkward and junk compared to my factory HD parts. My son still owns my old Sportster as well as my old KZ650 that I once had a Mr. Turbo turbocharged motor on 40+ years ago.

[@bmp72]

Sportster a good second bike... well, maybe, but not for that money. Thats why I might be interested in the SVM V1200 when(if) it comes out here in Europe.

[@davidmacgregor5193]

Don't you mean the SWM V1200 "Stormbreaker"?

[@bmp72]

@@davidmacgregor5193 yep that one. I would be interested at the right price...

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yep, the Stormbreaker is interesting. At this point no word on whether it's being imported to Canada but it would be cool to see it here.

[@guyfuller1369]

Owning a motorcycle in a country where grim winter rules is practically indefensible. Owning several is insanity. Neither reason is good enough to inspire moto-celibacy. You did good selling the Sportster. You did good keeping the Yammie. And I’m keeping my Indian, practicality and sanity be damned. April is just around the corner.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Ha, I wish! It's a blizzard outside my window as I write this.

[@frankcastle5294]

I'm betting you're one of those Ontario Canucks that comes down here and rides Pennsylvania whenever possible? Hope so. The Roadster was, what I would call, and ergonomic mistake. Form took precedent over function and they just didn't make any sense. My XR1200 much more comfortable.

[@KondorMoto]

1000 bucks for insurance is crazy!

[@donbrashsux]

I’d prefer that beautiful Guitar over the Sportster .. I’d use it more and it would be louder

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Sold that in 2015.

[@slottedpig2253]

Yeah get new bars, new seat, and you're good. Its the best sporster ever made. If you're coming from the sport bike world then you're going at the bike in the wrong way. Its still a cruiser at the end of the day

[@Wintersdark]

Tenere doesn't sound as good? An aftermarket exhaust fixes that right up. That CP2 sounds amazing. Or.... Just pull the baffle out of the stock exhaust - remove the end cap (4 screws) then remove the baffle (4 nuts).and replace the end cap. Super easy and reversible and you get the best sounding stock exhaust in the industry.

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

I have a titanium Mivv slip on on my Tenere but the Sportster's Screamin' Eagles still beat it. It does sound good though. Recommended. I have a video on it a ways back.

[@TheRealMarxz]

Bought a Sportster Sports (much the same as this) way back in its day, sold it with in 3 months... and only because it took 2 months to sell it, looked nice but for all the same reasons in the video was un rideable beyond a few dozen K's, replaced it with an old BMW R80 airhead, much better bike, sold that for a BMW R100 of the same vintage, then eventually replaced that with a Moto Guzzi V7 all of them better do everything bikes, clocking up two or three hundred K's (or more) on some day rides, tours, and rallies as well as cruising around and commuting

[@josephwrobel7616]

If you really want to enjoy Harley, get a Road King or something in that class!

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yes, either that or a Lowrider S with forward controls.

[@richardcastello4754]

I own a Tenere 700 and an XR1200. My experience is that it's difficult to remain without a Harley once you've had one. Reason cannot win against pleasure, there is something very addictive about HD.

[@KevXRDuke]

I own a XR1200 too. It is a way better bike than the Roadster.

[@Dwayneology]

I pay £81 a year for the insurance on mine in the UK

[@StratfordWingRider]

I’m NZ if you buy a older Harley, you pay $12,000 for a $5,000 bike, when you buy a Honda, you pay $5000 for what feels like a $12000 quality bike. Each to their own I guess.

[@frankmarkovcijr5459]

Maybe you should have rented if I can wrote it around all day to see whether or not you liked it. It's hard to tell how you like a motorcycle just from going around the block of the dealership. I once was out of shop and this guy told me to take a little ride on one of the bikes there check it out and the other guy said don't tell him that because his idea of a little ride is going around Lake Okeechobee. It's funny how some bikes that look good feel awful when you ride them. New seats are $1,000 plus and then God knows what it would cost you to change the handlebars to something that would more better Suits You. In the old days it was cheap to change your handlebars cuz all you had to do is put get new cables now you got to spend $1,000 to put a new $100 set of bars on it

[@halinabiegalski9509]

I agree, it is a more of a status than anything …

[@DifferentSpokesTV]

Yep.

[@grayghost1423]

I thought you bought it for your wife? Anyway I love my mine. But if your not using it, you did good. I never buy a investment with wheels. I have a 2022 Streetglide ST and RK. If I had more room I'd get another Guzzi.