Nailed it. I feel the same way about my 883. Love the history too. In my opinion, you can't really review a sporty and leave out that 60 years. It makes the bike more than just a bike and gives one an almost nostalgic feel in a "new" package. Great job.
I look at the Iron in this way. I had a 1969 Corvette. Countless people berated everything on it. But..I loved it. So I didn't care. I accepted it at face value and enjoyed driving it. This is what brings me to the Iron. After owning many different bikes, I need this bike. Turn key and ride. Simplicity. And soul satisfying. Great review.
Thanks, brother. I feel I missed a few points like lean angle and I could have talked about the speedo/tach gauge a bit. Garage videos are always time-consuming for me to shoot and edit. This one was a doozy! I'm glad it;s being received well so far.
Agreed. I have been looking at the Softail Slim and will purchase one in the next 1-2 years. But I will NOT trade my XL1200C. My bike has become part of me and I plan on keeping it for the rest of my life. Sportys are just SO much fun to ride.
Well said, I just bout an iron 883 2 weeks ago, my first bike!! I love it.. I get slack from my cousins and friends whom all ride road glides and street glides which they all was trying to get me to buy.. I’m not one to be pressured, so I bought my 883.. this bike is soooo cool. I just started to mood it with a Daymaker headlight, drag bars and handlebar grips.. have the silver iron 883.
Thank you for your comprehensive review and historic overview of the Sportster. I no longer ride do to a physical limitation, but in 1994 I purchased a new standard 883. It was black. I happen to like black with chrome and stainless steel. I moded it in a number of ways over time. I special ordered a 3.2-gallon gas tank from Harley. I did stay with the Sportster 5 decal but went from orange with yellow to blue with grey colors. The 1995 models were upgraded with this size tank. No $500 fee! Another way was to change the small belt pully and went up one tooth in order to improve highway riding. I stole a slight amount of low-end RPMs and gained lower, high end RPMs. I also lowered the suspension, including progressive fork springe and shorter progressive read shocks. Not the best move for my bad back, but it did look great. I also changed the bars for track bars along with 3" pull back risers and a ball-milled chrome clamp/ speedo bracket. A set of tapered Python 2 exhaust and with expert carb jetting. (No discoloration at all). I used a 180 Avon rear tire and a corresponding Avon front tire. Then there was a Mustang seat. All in all, I loved my bike and planned on keeping it forever, like yourself. I', sure that i missed some mods, but this is the gist of them. Thank you, again, Ron PS: NOT A GIRLS BIKE. A people's bike.
I own a 2014 voodoo purple 883 and I love it, I've done a few things to it, Put drag bars on, Changed the pegs and grips and had them painted purple to match the bike, There are a few more things I'm going to do, I'm also getting ready for my 1st long distance ride to New Orleans in July, I'm riding with a group of women who all ride bigger Harley's and they have been trying to convince me to get a bigger bike but I'm good. Love my Iron 883. Great videos keep them coming!!!
Dang! I bet you turn a lot of heads riding your bike! Ride safe and have fun riding to NOLA this July. If you post to Instagram or Facebook, I'd love to follow your adventures.
I do! It's more fun on the highway after swapping out the exaust and air filter. That gave it a little more get up and go. The Iron is more at home on twisty country roads and that's where I enjoy riding it most.
You're so badass, Karan, you can handle anything! 😀 You're gonna have some vibrations traveling along at 70mph with the 883 chugging 3500 RPMs. It's no big deal, but some riders that aren't used to the high RPMs claim the 883 is underpowered. It's really not, though. It's just a matter of getting used to those RPMs. My 883 is modded out for better comfort on long trips and highway riding. You could do the same, but honestly, you'll be fine keeping your beautiful bike the way it is.
Well done!!! I have 9K plus miles on my Iron and I’m looking forward to your 10k series. I hope it’s something I can watch and follow so I can do the 10k service myself. I’m sure we’ll all upgrade our power plant eventually, but I’ll never get rid of my Iron883.
Thanks, man! I hope to be thorough, but not boring with the 10K maintenance series. it's got some quirky procedures like the fall away/steering head adjustment, but it's not too challenging, I think. I'll likely do the 1275 conversion in late fall. Feels like the right time to do it. What the heck is going on with the Potomac?! I've never seen it flood like that!
Bought my "Starter Bike". Back in spring of 2011. She had 13,100 km on her. A 2000 Honda 750 ACE. I don't consider her....Asshlay a starter bike. She's just my motorcycle. No desire to upgrade. Almost 9 seasons and 132,000 of my own KMS later. She still makes me smile. She's taken me coast to coast across Canada. Vancouver Island(once) to Newfoundland (twice). And around Lake Superior. That being said...I will say this with humor. Man its a good thing your viewers didn't do a shot for every time you said Harley 883. ;)
Every once in awhile I come across a TH-cam channel that I enjoy watching the enthusiasm and honesty is great thumbs up. Even riding in the snow that gets my respect "
I really enjoy your videos! I don’t ever plan on “upgrading” from my Nightster 1200 ether. I’m a small guy and those other bikes are just too big. Besides I would rather spend all that money on modifications then a stock bike 😎
Thanks, man! I work hard on these videos. It's great to know riders like you enjoy them. Spending money on mods is definitely what I'm doing too. So many options.
Got a 2018 883, I agree with you on every aspect of this bike. This is my first street bike, did the motocross thing decades a ago. For where and what I ride, this may be my last one. Meaning it does it all for me.
I could probably learn a thing or two from you. I'm going to take an intro to dirt riding course this September. I'm looking forward to it. The iron is a really great bike and it makes me so happy to see so many riders getting on it and having fun riding!
Outstanding review!! The historical background you provided, combined with the practical evaluation of your riding the Iron, have deepened the appreciation for my bike (18 Iron 883) immensely!! Thank you!
Thanks! There's just so much to love about the Sporty. It's so versatile. It can be your daily rider as well as take you accross the country like I did on the Route 66 trip. Is your Iron your first bike or have you ridden others?
@@GreatEgret My first "bike" was a K-Mart 3.5hp mini-bike when I was 12. When I turned 18, I bought a 76 Kawasaki KZ 400. I really loved that bike! My riding ended for 30 years or so. In 2011, I bought a Buell Blast (500) while working at a local H-D dealer. A month later, I traded it in on a 09 Iron 883. I rode that bike for about a year before selling it. I bought the 18 Iron last July and really enjoy it. It fits me perfectly. I will turn 60 in April and have always loved the Sportster look. For me, the Iron is the best looking one.
So many other riders have bought other bikes by trading in their Sportys and then say how they miss it. I'll buy another bike in a few years, but not at the cost of losing my Iron.
My wife just bought a 48 special basically same bars are you have on your bike. I thought she would of went with an iron 883 but once she sat on the 48 special she was sold she liked the riders triangle so much better. And the forward controls are very comfortable. Only downside is the 2.1 gallon tank I will be putting an iron tank on it this spring. Great video!
That's pretty sweet, brother! It's a Sporty, but with that triangle, wider front tire, and 1200, it's definitely a different ride. Geared differently than the 883 too! Lose a small amount of low end torque for the lower RPMs at the top. Perfect for highway rides. That's going to be so fun for her! You're smart to swap that tank and it'll add a nice personal touch to the bike.
@@GreatEgret she wants to ride to sturgis from Florida next year 1700 miles so we need a few mods and we will probably set it up pretty much like you did yours
Yea man I feel very blessed to live n ride here. I'm bout 30 miles SW of Asheville in a 1 red light town called Horseshoe. Nothing but country roads n beautiful mtns. We are planning a trip to The Outer Banks in Oct... bout 1200 miles round trip. Will b recording hopefully... so I may send it out on youtube... been considering starting a motovlog. Keep em coming man
I agree with you about the mid-controls. Better balance and more control for better handling. Same physics as snow skiing. Watch the slalom skiers leg vs shoulder positions. The forward controls started back in the 60's with the choppers becoming popular because of the Easy Rider type of movies. I can't even ride with forward controls because of my lower back problems. I've owned bikes with forwards and none of them ever felt like I was in complete control. I started out on mid's in 1963 and I always felt in complete control with them. Girl's bike? Which would you rather ride across the country on, a Sporty or a Bagger? The Bagger is a two-wheel Buick. The Sporty is a two-wheel Camaro.
Awesome video Joe! It's good to see someone who loves their Sportster as much as I love mine. I have 5 sets of handlebars, my two favorites are the Chumps & Street Trackers & often change them because it's fun to. I often think of a bigger bike but am content on my old Sportster, it owes me nothing. 23 yrs old & never one problem! I can hang with the bigger bikes, & smoke them in the twisties. Love my mids too! Your bike looks amazing, stay safe!
Thanks, Jim! I'm so happy with my Sportster. 23 years! That's the beauty of them and one of the reasons they're so much fun to wrench on. I like the Chumps. The riding position is amazing. I don't like the lack of knurling. Even with Emery cloth my bars slip. So I check the torque about once per week.
Great Egret once I hit a big pothole & they moved on me, down about 4 inches, really startled me & I was so pissed. They are beautiful bars but shame on Biltwell for not knurling them, I can't understand why. Def one of your best vids yet, just watched it again!
Yeah it's nutty that Biltwell didn't include the knurling. 4"?! Wow. I've had small slippage over time, but nothing that large. That's down right dangerous. That's for watching and being a part of this community!
Thank you for sharing this video, I enjoyed it very much. I've had an affinity for Sportsters since I was 16 years old. I am now 70 and just bought my first Harley a few months ago. It's a 2007 XL883C and I absolutely love it. I highly doubt that I will ever get rid of it or move on to a different bike. Also, I got some good ideas from your video, thanks.
Hey Joe! This is my favorite video hands down about the Iron 883 and trust me, I've looked at hundreds if not more videos in the past few months while deciding on whether to get a Sporty. Well, I finally pulled the trigger and picked up a used 2017 Iron 883 earlier in the week. Your videos were a major part of my decision to move forward and buy not only a Sporty, but more importantly to get the 883 over the 1200. I appreciate your feedback from my earlier comments while I was still in the decision process. The one I picked up is bone stock and I already have a Stage 1 Kit planned for it with the V&H Twin Slash slip-ons. I test rode a used Iron 883 with the Big Radius and felt it was a bit too loud for my daily commute and neighborhood. Maybe down the road I'll go with them if I find the Twin Slash slip-ons aren't providing enough extra performance. I also bought the Biltwell Keystone bars. I will definitely keep following your channel for all the great insight and commentary about the Sporty and motorcycle life in general. Harley Davidson's marketing department could never replicate what you have done with your channel which is to come from the heart with such passion and honesty about the great and not so great aspects of owning a Sporty.
Brother, this is an amazing comment to read. This is exactly why I do the TH-cam thing. You've made som good choices in mods here. You're right about the Big Radius. My neighbors have told me they can hear me coming home far down my street before arrive in my garage. You last sentence in your comment is really meaningful to me and that's going to keep me motivated to do this! Keep me posted on how amazing riding and wrenching is for you
@@GreatEgret Just had the dealer install the Screamin' Eagle Stage 1 Kit (AC and tune) and V&H Twin Slash slip-ons. I also figured I'd just have them put on the Biltwell Keystone bars for now since I don't have any SAE tools whatsoever yet and wanted the bars on ASAP. Not a fan of the stock ones. The bike feels so much better now with the Keystone bars and the V&H Twin Slash slip-ons are perfect. Can't believe how loud they are. Not too impressed with the Screamin' Eagle Stage 1 Kit (AC and tune). It helped a little making the bike breath better, but I feel like I will need to go with a better AC and tuner, perhaps the V&H FP3 Autotuner? The 2018 Iron 883 I test rode a few months back at a dealership had an aftermarket (not Screamin' Eagle) Stage 1 kit and ti was so much more powerful and responsive. Wish I had found out which kit it had. It also had a Big Radius full exhaust. My hope is to boost performance and throttle responsiveness and fueling smoothness while keeping the slip-ons and not going with the 1200 conversion. I'm desperate to get some tools so I can start doing some mods on my own, maybe a tank lift kit, etc. Can you recommend a good starter tool set? I'd also want to get a couple of torque wrench sets, one in ft/lbs and one in inch/lbs. Can you recommend any brands and ranges and vendors? Thanks!
@@GreatEgret I have a Street 750 (2018 model). Your kind suggestions regarding periodical maintenance of my son will be highly appreciated. Thanks in advance.
Besides the obvious rubber mount and frame frame change in 2004 the Sportster line up also got new heads and came equipped with W cams stock. One thing they did without that I wish they'd kept was the trap door for the trans like the pre-04 models had. The narrower frame design on the rigid Sportsters did allow for better lean angles and a sportier feel compared to what we have now. That being said I ride a 2012 and love it for what it is. If given the chance I wouldn't mind adding a 2004-2006 (rubber mount with carb) to the stable or a S model rigid. They're all fun IMO. Btw I've been joked with about my Sporty a few times but mostly by guys who don't know the history of these machines. There's a reason the Sportster has been around over 60 years! They've been Evo equipped for over 30 years and have been proven reliable. More so than anything else in the HD lineup. How many other model bikes have been around that long? I'm also willing to bet the Sportster has more parts and accessories than any motorcycle..period! Nice video and ride safe
All great points, man! A Sporty will always be in my garage. The history is such an important part of what the Sporster is. No review would be complete without it. When I started editing this video, I realized I forgot to talk about rubber mounting and lean angles. This is what I love about the community on here. Information is shared by everyone, not just me and every rider benefits! Thanks for watching, brother!
Hey dude I got a sportster superlow 883 ABS security I love the bike it’s very cool I don’t miss the lack of power because it’s just such a smooth riding bike I spent 10,000 on it with $1000 of tax came to 11 I now owe 5000 left on it I love the bike I take it out all summer and all winter Hope all is well I hope you keep your sportster there’s something about a sportster that is just awesome take care
Sheeesh!. the way you held my attention i thought you was a salesman, seriously i have a '07' custom that is already modified for my height and comfort for a trip and it will be with me forever, but i am in the process of looking for a second Harley to just run around on, ive looked at reveiws for the iron 88, and now i think ive found my next bike thanks to you.👍
Great overall video I’m definitely a good bit older so my perspective is different. In talking about the history of the sportys one of the WTF changes for me was 2004 and ups. The frames became longer and engine became rubber mounted. We called em honda-Harleys at the time because of the lack of vibes and overall smoother ride. It wasn’t a bad thing just different. Also the heads were new and used Buells tech. They were noticeably better designed. Anyway get perspective and I hope you enjoy your sporty for many more years 👍🤘
That's a great point and I'm surprised I didn't include at least a brief mention of rubber mounting. You're the second person in as many days to mention Honda as a pejorative for Harleys. Only the other person was referring to the new 2018 Softails and called them Honda-Davidsons. One of the reasons I love my Sporty so much is the vibrations. It would be tough to give that up. A met a rider yesterday that rides an old Ironhead Sporty. He parks next to me in the ramp near where I work. I drool over that old Ironhead.
Hey! Thanks for this and all the awesome videos! I bought a 2018 Iron 883, Industrial Grey Denim, so have been watching videos like mad. I like your channel the best! I love my sporty as well! So much info that is right on the mark to what I search for. Thanks so much!! Ride safe! Cheers from Canada!
Thanks for watching, Man! I watched videos like mad too when I bought my Sporty, but I had to wait five months for it! So creators like Blockhead and DanDantheFireman made me more excited to ride while I waited. Lots of riders from Canada here. Where in Canada are you from?
Yep im watchin them too lol. Cranbrook, BC here. I just got my bike back from its first service, 1000 Mi. Its running sweet. I was asking about Vance and Hines pipes/Fuelpack and I hear their in bankruptcy protection. Could be problematic on warranties Etc. so im considering and researching my options Thinking Ill just jump into a stage 4 1200cc mod this winter instead of just the stage 1. Only thing I did so far is the mirrors and that was a big improvement. Hey your link above to the saddle men step up seat doesnt work right. What model is it that you have if you dont mind me asking? :)
Sorry, I meant there are a lot of Canadians that have subscribed to my channel. It's fun to see! Most from eastern Ontario. You live about 65 Km north of where I decided to become a motorcyclist. In early June of 2016 I was climbing a steep hill on a forest road on my bicycle just north of Libby Montana when a motorcyclist gave me the biker wave. It planted the seed! I might be making the same conversion to 1275 this winter as well. I feel it's the right time to do it. Thanks for letting me know about the bad link. Your best bet is Fortnine (link below). it's the front diamond stitch (Fortnine calls it the front lattice). They're out of stock right now and so is RevZilla, but leave your email at either and you'll get in line to get one. Fortnine: fortnine.ca/en/saddlemen-step-up-seat RevZilla: www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/saddlemen-step-up-seat-for-harley-sportster-with-33-gallon-tank-2004-2018
What a great review. I chose the Iron 883 as my first bike myself. I have a class setup at the end of the week to get my endorsement as well as learn the basics. Thanks for the review.
As a Brit I would love to do Route 66 on a 883. Seriously thinking about buying a new one from my local HD dealer in Leeds Yorkshire. Thanks for the video.
I agree, ever since I got my iron 883 2016 I’ve been riding it all year round! 🏍 To me I don’t see a girls bike, see and have a Harley-Davidson motorcycle that I love riding!! 🏍
Great review man!! I just picked mine up last week. I'll definitely be upgrading the handlebars to the mini-apes. I find them a lot more comfortable, especially with my bad back. I don't want to be leaning forward all the time.
Got a new subscriber here body! Got the 2016 Iron myself ,not new to motorcycles,but I wanted something easy to ride and this is my firts Harley . Greetings from Sweden. Al thou I’m from US originally.
Great video egret. Love your content. Picked up my iron 883 last week (olive gold 😜). Absolutely love it and looking forward to personalising it for my taste. Already done a few bits like a seat swap sissy bar and forward controls (I am tall-so they work for me. Send you a pic but not sure how on here?
Great review. Love your channel. I recomend a S&S 1200 big bore kit...... If you love your bike now, you'll go crazy with this mod. I did it. It's another world.
I thought about doing the same. It's definitely a trade-off with low-end torque, but if you ride a lot of highway miles or live in an area with a lot of flat straight roads, it makes a lot of sense.
Great video. Liked how you added the history. Did you do a video on the biltwell chumps? Did you need to replace/ extend brake line? I have 2017 iron 883 with abs and not sure if I want to mess with break line.
Thanks for watching! The history of the sporty is interesting and such a huge part of what makes the a Sportster a Sportster. I did have to replace the brake line. I didn't do an install video of the Chumps, but I did a video the day after I did. Sounds weird, but if you watch the video on how I modded out my bike for a Route 66 trip, it will make more sense. I linked it below. I lot of techs say that under no circumstances should you replace the lines yourself on an ABS Harley. They need to connect it to their tech II computer to keep air out out of the line. I did it anyway and I figured the worst that could happen was I would have to take it into Harley and pay the $400 to replace the line anyway. I say in the video and in the comments of the video that I wouldn't advise this for anybody else, but it worked for me. I paid $30 for a used line on eBay and an hour of installing and bleeding the line I saved myself a ton of money. Route 66 Setup Video: th-cam.com/video/w6w2BUG-5Tc/w-d-xo.html I talk a bit more about the Chumps in this video: th-cam.com/video/wNuHKzmCBHE/w-d-xo.html I'll have a full review of the Chumps later this summer, but I will say the lack of knurling on them is a big problem.
What a great review..so much so I subscribed. For the past few years I wanted a H.D. Iron..although I have not ridden a "Cruiser" style bike since 1982...I have ridden may Sport bikes. But at 62 I found that my body was starting to complain (Mainly my hip) with the Sport bike seating position. So not knowing if I will even like a Cruiser motorcycle I did buy a (used) Yamaha Bolt that has a few performance mods. So far I really enjoy it and I can ride it for longer distances with out pain. However...I plan to purchase a used Iron 883 or perhaps a Iron 1200 in a year or two and keep the Bolt. Ride safe ..Sir.You have a great channel.
Thanks, Laurie! This was a fun video to put together. The Bolt is a great bike, but the Iron, either the 883 or 1200, is so versatile. Just a fun bike to ride and work on. Thanks for subscribing! I definitely have had a lot of fun adventures since this video.
I really enjoy watching your videos! Congrats. Before making the decision to buy a motorcycle I have three questions and would really appreciate if you would take some time to answer it. 1. I'm looking to buy a Sportster, and I keep going back-and-forth between the Iron 883 and Roadster. Do you think it is worth to invest a little more and buy a Roadster? 2. I noticed you live in Dallas, and so do I. Do you think Dallas is a dangerous place to have a bike (do to its crazy drivers and the fact that you have to take the highway a lot?) 3. Due to the climate, you can't ride all year round (in Dallas). Is it still worth having a motorcycle? I appreciate any help you can give me. Take care!
I'll do my best to answer these three questions 😎 1. Honestly, only you can answer this. There are so many factors that go into choosing a bike: riding style, ability, the type of riding you'll do, and most importantly, individual preference. Use this video as a starting point, watch other videos, read reviews and blogs on Sportys. Basically, do a ton of research. Most importantly, get on both bikes at H-D. Test ride the snot out of them. Then you'll know which one will be best for you. 2. I can't objectively answer this one. I've spent time in DFW, but I don't live in Dallas. I live in the friendliest city south of Canada. Madison, WI. Check out MCRider here on TH-cam. He's from DFW. 3. See #2. But I live in a winter climate and I ride year round in all types of weather. Check out some of my videos on riding in cold winter weather. I don't recommend it for everyone, but I have a good plan while I ride, so I'm comfortable with riding through the winter.
question if you're still responding to this one: how tall are you? i'm juuuuuuuuuuuust under 6 foot and want to not feel/look "too big" (I'm 185lbs) on it if that makes sense. really interested in this 883! went to the dealer yesterday and sat on some, and they felt good; but wasn't able to see what i look like on it. also, do you recommend buying new or used? Thanks man! Great review.
There are a lot of factors that go into this decision. I know guys my height (5'10" with a 31" inseam) that are uncomfortable on a Sporty. I also know guys that are 6'2" that are very comfortable. This is one of those situations where you got to get on one at the dealership and see how it works for you. Good luck!
Thanks! I put on 32K miles on my 883 in nearly three years and did a long term review of the 883 a little over a year ago. Those are the Biltwell Chumps. Good bars.
Hey man, quick thought for you on your up and coming Route 66 trip: what about getting a 4.5gal tank? I've heard word that gas can be scarce riding out west. From the dudes on the HDforums, there are some long touring Sporty guys that swear by the 4.5gal. Maybe you've already considered it but I just thought I'd throw that out there. I'm doing some shorter camping trips with my 04' XL883 that I converted to a 1250 and I'm considering either carrying a bit extra gas or a tank increase as much as I love the look of the 3.3 gal.
Thanks for watching! Not a bad suggestion, Brian. It would be fun to buy a tank and put my own design on it. For this ride, I'm going to carry a one or two gallon gas can. That should give me a minimum of 45 or 90 miles more depending on what I go with. Don't go out of your way because I'll do some searches, but if you have a link to any forum that have useful threads about touring Sportys, I'd appreciate if shared them here. No biggie if you don't have them handy, though.
Well, there are a TON of threads on the Sportster section of HDForums but here's one I saw: www.hdforums.com/forum/sportster-models/1071202-any-touring-with-the-sportster-1200-custom.html There's a few guys on the forum that tour on Sportsters and have put some serious miles on their bikes (a few over 100k, one over 200k). If you're not a member, you might want to create an account and look through the info on there. There is alot of good experienced information, but you have to dig a bit. You could also post up your plans on a new thread since I'd be willing to bet a lot of riders there have taken a similar trip like you're planning. Pick me up in Minneapolis on your way, I'll ride with you!
Hey Brother. Great review. How tall are you? I’m 5’11 210lbs. Would this fit pretty well? Once I get back home I plan on going to the dealership and sitting on one.
It's a fun bike, isn't it? I love how you can modify it to your personality. It totally is like leggos! That's a great comparison. Thanks for subcribing and I'm really jealous of your weather right now!
Regarding the crankcase fumes getting on the exhaust and causing those fumes, just remember these fumes are also going into the air intake and into the engine, contaminating it. Although the EPA doesn't like it, it is better to vent these fumes to the atmosphere and allow clean, cool air to enter the engine. Your engine will thank you. My conversion cost about $10 in parts and took less than 2 hours. It is completely reversible in about 15 minutes. Check out Sportsterpedia for details.
I live in rural KS and have been riding for about 13 years and I'm thinking about trading my 06 650 ninja for one of these. Buuutttt... I've also been drooling over a street bob. The iron 883 just seems to be a more practical and versatile bike to have while I'm getting married and starting a family.
That Fat Bob is an amazing bike, but dollar for dollar, you just cannot go wrong with a Sporty. The best part is H-D has such a generous trade-in on Sportsters because they want to move the "bigger" bikes. If you decide to get the Fat Bob in a year, you won't be out much money if any. Keep me posted with what you go with.
I don't see it as a beginner bike or a "girl's bike". Whatever bike you ride (in my opinion) ought to be like an extension of yourself as you insinuated... like wearing a pair of shoes. When I get asked why I built a sportster chopper and not a big twin, my response is usually something like "a sportster because screw you". Piss on em. Ride what reflects yourself. You nailed it, amigo. I dig your ride too by the way. You got me wanting to try an Iron 883. I've been riding almost 20 years, and that bike is starting to grow on me a bit.
Since your first comment about your chopper, I've been wanting to see it! Will you document your trip? Do you have Instagram? It would be fun to follow that.
@@GreatEgret Sure. I plan on making some videos about the trip when it happens. Also you can check out my channel. I have a video about when I first built the bike and several other videos on the modifications that I made since it went together the first time.
New sub here. I also have a 17' iron 883.. denim red. Love it man. I love in the mtns of NC and this bike... for me.. is perfect. I even take my wife alot. Together we only weigh bout 250lbs so it pulls us both with ease up n down the mtns. Love the channel... I've went back tryin to catch up on them. O n btw.. who cares if other people think it's a girl's bike... they dnt have to ride it. As long as u are happy that's all that matters.
Thanks for being part of the community here! What I like best about this is it's a small corner of how amazing the motorcyling community is. I bet the mountains of NC are a lot of fun to ride. I spent a lot of time in the mountains of Southwest Virginia just north of there and in Tennessee just west. So I know how beautiful that area is. I've never ridden a motorcycle there, though. Definitely on my list.
Joey illiano I think using any good 20W50 oil is good idea. Just change it every 3-5K miles. Closer to 3K is better if you ride hard or in rough conditions.
Throttle and clutch cables, no, but the brake line I did. This is the #1 question I get on this channel. I have four videos covering the Biltwell chump and cover changing out the line in depth in those videos. Head over to the playlist section and check out the Biltwell Chumps playlist.
How far do you lean into corners? I was considering that exact highway bar set up but worried I'll drag it because I corner on the very edge of the tire right where the HD logo is on the tires
Biltwell Chumps. I get asked this question a ton, so I created a bunch of videos on them: th-cam.com/play/PLRA7CrqQbaWI_9-yUBbR0GLkg7lm5kZfi.html 3000 mile review and the extended review will probably be the most helpful.
it's true that the Sportster was based on the K model, but that technically wasn't a Sporty. The Sportster officially came out in 1957. I recently saw a 2007 50th anniversary 1200. Man, that's a beautiful bike.
I know, right?! There's something about hiding behind a keyboard that turns some people in to A-holes. With that said, for every one crappy comment, there are 100 amazing ones!
I never have had any issues. Even in the heat of the New Mexico dessert. With that said, I've taken great care, both with maintenance and riding style to make sure it never was in a position to overheat. Since it is air cooled, YMMV, as they say.
@@GreatEgret Ahh ok, thanks for the comment :) I am actually looking at buying *883 super low* and the main thing that is bothering me is the fact that it is air-cooled.. i'll check more info about this bike too.
Not a prob, my friend. Check out my 25K review video. I cover both the good and bad, with a great deal of honesty. It's not a bike for everyone, but there are a lot of great things about it. For some the simplicity of an air-cooled motorcycle is great, for others it's the worst. Like a lot of things in life, there are trade offs to balance. Good luck with your decision.
It's one I bought from Amazn a few years ago. They have really dropped in price since I bought mine. Here's a link: www.amazon.com/dp/B01DZU30S0/?ref=idea_lv_dp_ov_d&tag=aiponsite-20&linkCode=ic6&ascsubtag=amzn1.ideas.27ZJSP01NBD2R
Great video! I recently just purchased my own 2018 iron. I have been interested in putting on some highway pegs. Could you show me a picture of your Highway bars? And also a link to where you purchased them.
Thanks, man! I can do better than just a picture and a link. I did a review of the Lindby Multibar. Here is a link to that video: th-cam.com/video/OzYFgL9Pb-g/w-d-xo.html There is a link to where I purchases the Lindby in both the description of that video. Thanks for watching!
I don't understand why people consider sportsters girl spikes? I seen plenty of girls ride road Kings and road glides also soft tails. Does that mean all of those bikes are for girls too?
It spits it out of the breathers. Especially if you do a stage one. Oil gets into the filter and if it pools too much it can wind up on the bike and on you. It's also completely normal. Check out this article by RevZilla's Lemmy to find out why: www.revzilla.com/common-tread/wtatwta-why-harleys-leak
A wobble is not a good thing at any speed. Check a few things: 1. Stearing head bearings are not messed up and in spec. Do the fall away procedure. This is most important. Google "death wobble" and you'll see how important having your stearing head bearings in spec is. 2. Fork pinch bolt torque 3. Axle bolt torque The torque of the front axle nut is 60-65ft-lbs Fall Away and pinch bolts can be seen here: th-cam.com/video/4GhnjBD_X1w/w-d-xo.html
Hey, man. Those are the Biltwell Chumps. I love them and hate them. I have four videos on my experience with them. Check out that playlist here: th-cam.com/play/PLRA7CrqQbaWI_9-yUBbR0GLkg7lm5kZfi.html The 3000-mile review video and the video on how to keep them from slipping are the ones you'll want to check out. I have about 13K miles on them including a 4.5L-mile cross countery Route 66 trip, so I going to do an extended review of them soon.
A girls bike...I hate those types. I was with the wife at a dealership once, she was looking, and there was a bike, cannot remember the make/model, but it was a 1400cc and it looked like a smaller bike, like a 750 and I commented something about the 1400 cc's and the salesman said something like..."It's just like any other v-twin"...I said, My Ducati is a V-Twin....he gave me a look and said, but that's a different kind of v-twin...whatever, haters gonna hate!
Heck, yeah! I've spent many hours there back in the day. Last time I was there I was disappointed to find out some jerk chiseled the nickel out of the bar that was there for years.
In the UK and just bought my first bike. A 2019 883. Watched countless 883 videos but this one is really great. Thanks for the upload!
You're welcome, man! I put a lot of thought into this video and comments like this mean a lot to me! Thanks!
Nailed it.
I feel the same way about my 883.
Love the history too. In my opinion, you can't really review a sporty and leave out that 60 years. It makes the bike more than just a bike and gives one an almost nostalgic feel in a "new" package.
Great job.
Thanks, Philip! I knew there was no way I could do a review without the history. It's such a big part of what the Sporty is!
I look at the Iron in this way. I had a 1969 Corvette. Countless people berated everything on it. But..I loved it. So I didn't care. I accepted it at face value and enjoyed driving it.
This is what brings me to the Iron. After owning many different bikes, I need this bike. Turn key and ride. Simplicity. And soul satisfying. Great review.
Dude, one of the best reviews I have I seen! Well done!!!!!’
Thanks, brother. I feel I missed a few points like lean angle and I could have talked about the speedo/tach gauge a bit. Garage videos are always time-consuming for me to shoot and edit. This one was a doozy! I'm glad it;s being received well so far.
Agreed. I have been looking at the Softail Slim and will purchase one in the next 1-2 years. But I will NOT trade my XL1200C. My bike has become part of me and I plan on keeping it for the rest of my life. Sportys are just SO much fun to ride.
My Iron has become such an extension of myself. No way will I ever give it up!
been riding a 2012 softail slim for 2 years.... great bike...
RmeParatrooper; I like your log in name. I spent 12 years on Ft Bragg in the 82nd Airborne Division. You?
Well said, I just bout an iron 883 2 weeks ago, my first bike!! I love it.. I get slack from my cousins and friends whom all ride road glides and street glides which they all was trying to get me to buy.. I’m not one to be pressured, so I bought my 883.. this bike is soooo cool. I just started to mood it with a Daymaker headlight, drag bars and handlebar grips.. have the silver iron 883.
Modding it is the best part and lot of fun to make it your own.
Thank you for your comprehensive review and historic overview of the Sportster. I no longer ride do to a physical limitation, but in 1994 I purchased a new standard 883. It was black. I happen to like black with chrome and stainless steel. I moded it in a number of ways over time. I special ordered a 3.2-gallon gas tank from Harley. I did stay with the Sportster 5 decal but went from orange with yellow to blue with grey colors. The 1995 models were upgraded with this size tank. No $500 fee! Another way was to change the small belt pully and went up one tooth in order to improve highway riding. I stole a slight amount of low-end RPMs and gained lower, high end RPMs. I also lowered the suspension, including progressive fork springe and shorter progressive read shocks. Not the best move for my bad back, but it did look great. I also changed the bars for track bars along with 3" pull back risers and a ball-milled chrome clamp/ speedo bracket. A set of tapered Python 2 exhaust and with expert carb jetting. (No discoloration at all). I used a 180 Avon rear tire and a corresponding Avon front tire. Then there was a Mustang seat.
All in all, I loved my bike and planned on keeping it forever, like yourself. I', sure that i missed some mods, but this is the gist of them.
Thank you, again,
Ron
PS: NOT A GIRLS BIKE. A people's bike.
Hands down...Best review I've seen on the 883...thanks
Thanks, man! If you like this one, check out my 25K miles review.
I own a 2014 voodoo purple 883 and I love it, I've done a few things to it, Put drag bars on, Changed the pegs and grips and had them painted purple to match the bike, There are a few more things I'm going to do, I'm also getting ready for my 1st long distance ride to New Orleans in July, I'm riding with a group of women who all ride bigger Harley's and they have been trying to convince me to get a bigger bike but I'm good. Love my Iron 883. Great videos keep them coming!!!
Dang! I bet you turn a lot of heads riding your bike! Ride safe and have fun riding to NOLA this July. If you post to Instagram or Facebook, I'd love to follow your adventures.
Hey Great Egret, I have a question: Do you ride the highway on your 883?
I do! It's more fun on the highway after swapping out the exaust and air filter. That gave it a little more get up and go. The Iron is more at home on twisty country roads and that's where I enjoy riding it most.
I should be good on my ride to New Orleans right?
You're so badass, Karan, you can handle anything! 😀 You're gonna have some vibrations traveling along at 70mph with the 883 chugging 3500 RPMs. It's no big deal, but some riders that aren't used to the high RPMs claim the 883 is underpowered. It's really not, though. It's just a matter of getting used to those RPMs. My 883 is modded out for better comfort on long trips and highway riding. You could do the same, but honestly, you'll be fine keeping your beautiful bike the way it is.
Well done!!! I have 9K plus miles on my Iron and I’m looking forward to your 10k series. I hope it’s something I can watch and follow so I can do the 10k service myself. I’m sure we’ll all upgrade our power plant eventually, but I’ll never get rid of my Iron883.
Thanks, man! I hope to be thorough, but not boring with the 10K maintenance series. it's got some quirky procedures like the fall away/steering head adjustment, but it's not too challenging, I think. I'll likely do the 1275 conversion in late fall. Feels like the right time to do it.
What the heck is going on with the Potomac?! I've never seen it flood like that!
Bought my "Starter Bike". Back in spring of 2011. She had 13,100 km on her. A 2000 Honda 750 ACE. I don't consider her....Asshlay a starter bike. She's just my motorcycle. No desire to upgrade. Almost 9 seasons and 132,000 of my own KMS later. She still makes me smile. She's taken me coast to coast across Canada. Vancouver Island(once) to Newfoundland (twice). And around Lake Superior. That being said...I will say this with humor. Man its a good thing your viewers didn't do a shot for every time you said Harley 883. ;)
Every once in awhile I come across a TH-cam channel that I enjoy watching the enthusiasm and honesty is great thumbs up. Even riding in the snow that gets my respect "
Thanks, Ron! It didn't take long for my enthusiasm for riding to really take off. The best part is I'm just getting started!
I really enjoy your videos! I don’t ever plan on “upgrading” from my Nightster 1200 ether. I’m a small guy and those other bikes are just too big. Besides I would rather spend all that money on modifications then a stock bike 😎
Thanks, man! I work hard on these videos. It's great to know riders like you enjoy them. Spending money on mods is definitely what I'm doing too. So many options.
Got a 2018 883, I agree with you on every aspect of this bike. This is my first street bike, did the motocross thing decades a ago. For where and what I ride, this may be my last one. Meaning it does it all for me.
I could probably learn a thing or two from you. I'm going to take an intro to dirt riding course this September. I'm looking forward to it. The iron is a really great bike and it makes me so happy to see so many riders getting on it and having fun riding!
Outstanding review!! The historical background you provided, combined with the practical evaluation of your riding the Iron, have deepened the appreciation for my bike (18 Iron 883) immensely!! Thank you!
Thanks! There's just so much to love about the Sporty. It's so versatile. It can be your daily rider as well as take you accross the country like I did on the Route 66 trip. Is your Iron your first bike or have you ridden others?
@@GreatEgret My first "bike" was a K-Mart 3.5hp mini-bike when I was 12. When I turned 18, I bought a 76 Kawasaki KZ 400. I really loved that bike! My riding ended for 30 years or so. In 2011, I bought a Buell Blast (500) while working at a local H-D dealer. A month later, I traded it in on a 09 Iron 883. I rode that bike for about a year before selling it. I bought the 18 Iron last July and really enjoy it. It fits me perfectly. I will turn 60 in April and have always loved the Sportster look. For me, the Iron is the best looking one.
That's really cool, man. Thanks for sharing!
I will buy me an Iron next month and I will never sell it also, I rather buy another bike and keep both.
So many other riders have bought other bikes by trading in their Sportys and then say how they miss it. I'll buy another bike in a few years, but not at the cost of losing my Iron.
My wife just bought a 48 special basically same bars are you have on your bike. I thought she would of went with an iron 883 but once she sat on the 48 special she was sold she liked the riders triangle so much better. And the forward controls are very comfortable. Only downside is the 2.1 gallon tank I will be putting an iron tank on it this spring.
Great video!
That's pretty sweet, brother! It's a Sporty, but with that triangle, wider front tire, and 1200, it's definitely a different ride. Geared differently than the 883 too! Lose a small amount of low end torque for the lower RPMs at the top. Perfect for highway rides. That's going to be so fun for her! You're smart to swap that tank and it'll add a nice personal touch to the bike.
@@GreatEgret she wants to ride to sturgis from Florida next year 1700 miles so we need a few mods and we will probably set it up pretty much like you did yours
Yea man I feel very blessed to live n ride here. I'm bout 30 miles SW of Asheville in a 1 red light town called Horseshoe. Nothing but country roads n beautiful mtns. We are planning a trip to The Outer Banks in Oct... bout 1200 miles round trip. Will b recording hopefully... so I may send it out on youtube... been considering starting a motovlog. Keep em coming man
I agree with you about the mid-controls. Better balance and more control for better handling. Same physics as snow skiing. Watch the slalom skiers leg vs shoulder positions. The forward controls started back in the 60's with the choppers becoming popular because of the Easy Rider type of movies. I can't even ride with forward controls because of my lower back problems. I've owned bikes with forwards and none of them ever felt like I was in complete control. I started out on mid's in 1963 and I always felt in complete control with them.
Girl's bike? Which would you rather ride across the country on, a Sporty or a Bagger? The Bagger is a two-wheel Buick. The Sporty is a two-wheel Camaro.
Man, exactly right on everything you've said here! Cheers, brother!
Awesome video Joe! It's good to see someone who loves their Sportster as much as I love mine. I have 5 sets of handlebars, my two favorites are the Chumps & Street Trackers & often change them because it's fun to. I often think of a bigger bike but am content on my old Sportster, it owes me nothing. 23 yrs old & never one problem! I can hang with the bigger bikes, & smoke them in the twisties. Love my mids too! Your bike looks amazing, stay safe!
Thanks, Jim! I'm so happy with my Sportster. 23 years! That's the beauty of them and one of the reasons they're so much fun to wrench on. I like the Chumps. The riding position is amazing. I don't like the lack of knurling. Even with Emery cloth my bars slip. So I check the torque about once per week.
Great Egret once I hit a big pothole & they moved on me, down about 4 inches, really startled me & I was so pissed. They are beautiful bars but shame on Biltwell for not knurling them, I can't understand why. Def one of your best vids yet, just watched it again!
Yeah it's nutty that Biltwell didn't include the knurling. 4"?! Wow. I've had small slippage over time, but nothing that large. That's down right dangerous. That's for watching and being a part of this community!
Thank you for sharing this video, I enjoyed it very much. I've had an affinity for Sportsters since I was 16 years old. I am now 70 and just bought my first Harley a few months ago. It's a 2007 XL883C and I absolutely love it. I highly doubt that I will ever get rid of it or move on to a different bike. Also, I got some good ideas from your video, thanks.
You're welcome! I'll have another Sportster mod series coming up soon!
Hey Joe! This is my favorite video hands down about the Iron 883 and trust me, I've looked at hundreds if not more videos in the past few months while deciding on whether to get a Sporty. Well, I finally pulled the trigger and picked up a used 2017 Iron 883 earlier in the week. Your videos were a major part of my decision to move forward and buy not only a Sporty, but more importantly to get the 883 over the 1200. I appreciate your feedback from my earlier comments while I was still in the decision process. The one I picked up is bone stock and I already have a Stage 1 Kit planned for it with the V&H Twin Slash slip-ons. I test rode a used Iron 883 with the Big Radius and felt it was a bit too loud for my daily commute and neighborhood. Maybe down the road I'll go with them if I find the Twin Slash slip-ons aren't providing enough extra performance. I also bought the Biltwell Keystone bars. I will definitely keep following your channel for all the great insight and commentary about the Sporty and motorcycle life in general. Harley Davidson's marketing department could never replicate what you have done with your channel which is to come from the heart with such passion and honesty about the great and not so great aspects of owning a Sporty.
Brother, this is an amazing comment to read. This is exactly why I do the TH-cam thing. You've made som good choices in mods here. You're right about the Big Radius. My neighbors have told me they can hear me coming home far down my street before arrive in my garage. You last sentence in your comment is really meaningful to me and that's going to keep me motivated to do this! Keep me posted on how amazing riding and wrenching is for you
@@GreatEgret Just had the dealer install the Screamin' Eagle Stage 1 Kit (AC and tune) and V&H Twin Slash slip-ons. I also figured I'd just have them put on the Biltwell Keystone bars for now since I don't have any SAE tools whatsoever yet and wanted the bars on ASAP. Not a fan of the stock ones. The bike feels so much better now with the Keystone bars and the V&H Twin Slash slip-ons are perfect. Can't believe how loud they are. Not too impressed with the Screamin' Eagle Stage 1 Kit (AC and tune). It helped a little making the bike breath better, but I feel like I will need to go with a better AC and tuner, perhaps the V&H FP3 Autotuner? The 2018 Iron 883 I test rode a few months back at a dealership had an aftermarket (not Screamin' Eagle) Stage 1 kit and ti was so much more powerful and responsive. Wish I had found out which kit it had. It also had a Big Radius full exhaust. My hope is to boost performance and throttle responsiveness and fueling smoothness while keeping the slip-ons and not going with the 1200 conversion. I'm desperate to get some tools so I can start doing some mods on my own, maybe a tank lift kit, etc. Can you recommend a good starter tool set? I'd also want to get a couple of torque wrench sets, one in ft/lbs and one in inch/lbs. Can you recommend any brands and ranges and vendors? Thanks!
Good review and nice touch adding the history! You can tell how much you like your bike.
Thanks, man! I need to buy a Tee from you. I'll wear it in a few of my videos. Let me know how I can get into one.
I just thought you are praising your son. So nice review, you did it heartily.
Ha! It practically is my son 😀 thanks, Sanjoy!
@@GreatEgret Most welcome Sir 👍
@@GreatEgret I have a Street 750 (2018 model). Your kind suggestions regarding periodical maintenance of my son will be highly appreciated. Thanks in advance.
Besides the obvious rubber mount and frame frame change in 2004 the Sportster line up also got new heads and came equipped with W cams stock. One thing they did without that I wish they'd kept was the trap door for the trans like the pre-04 models had. The narrower frame design on the rigid Sportsters did allow for better lean angles and a sportier feel compared to what we have now. That being said I ride a 2012 and love it for what it is. If given the chance I wouldn't mind adding a 2004-2006 (rubber mount with carb) to the stable or a S model rigid. They're all fun IMO.
Btw I've been joked with about my Sporty a few times but mostly by guys who don't know the history of these machines. There's a reason the Sportster has been around over 60 years! They've been Evo equipped for over 30 years and have been proven reliable. More so than anything else in the HD lineup. How many other model bikes have been around that long? I'm also willing to bet the Sportster has more parts and accessories than any motorcycle..period!
Nice video and ride safe
All great points, man! A Sporty will always be in my garage. The history is such an important part of what the Sporster is. No review would be complete without it. When I started editing this video, I realized I forgot to talk about rubber mounting and lean angles. This is what I love about the community on here. Information is shared by everyone, not just me and every rider benefits! Thanks for watching, brother!
Hey dude I got a sportster superlow 883 ABS security I love the bike it’s very cool I don’t miss the lack of power because it’s just such a smooth riding bike I spent 10,000 on it with $1000 of tax came to 11 I now owe 5000 left on it I love the bike I take it out all summer and all winter Hope all is well I hope you keep your sportster there’s something about a sportster that is just awesome take care
I enjoyed this video, I just bought a XL883L, and it is shiny, but I am oldschool, but like I said, great video, stay safe and ride on.
One of the best iron reviews I have seen
Thanks, man! That means a lot to me.
Sheeesh!. the way you held my attention i thought you was a salesman, seriously i have a
'07' custom that is already modified for my height and comfort for a trip and it will be with me forever, but i am in the process of looking for a second Harley to just run around on, ive looked at reveiws for the iron 88, and now i think ive found my next bike thanks to you.👍
Man, it's such a fun bike especially for just around town. I say this as I'm looking for another bike myself outside of the H-D lineup.
Great overall video I’m definitely a good bit older so my perspective is different. In talking about the history of the sportys one of the WTF changes for me was 2004 and ups. The frames became longer and engine became rubber mounted. We called em honda-Harleys at the time because of the lack of vibes and overall smoother ride. It wasn’t a bad thing just different. Also the heads were new and used Buells tech. They were noticeably better designed. Anyway get perspective and I hope you enjoy your sporty for many more years 👍🤘
That's a great point and I'm surprised I didn't include at least a brief mention of rubber mounting. You're the second person in as many days to mention Honda as a pejorative for Harleys. Only the other person was referring to the new 2018 Softails and called them Honda-Davidsons. One of the reasons I love my Sporty so much is the vibrations. It would be tough to give that up. A met a rider yesterday that rides an old Ironhead Sporty. He parks next to me in the ramp near where I work. I drool over that old Ironhead.
Hit the nail on the head with this review! Also can’t wait for the 10k maintenance vid.
Thanks, Nick! The 10K has some quirky procedures that I hope will be informative.
Hey! Thanks for this and all the awesome videos! I bought a 2018 Iron 883, Industrial Grey Denim, so have been watching videos like mad. I like your channel the best! I love my sporty as well! So much info that is right on the mark to what I search for. Thanks so much!! Ride safe! Cheers from Canada!
Thanks for watching, Man! I watched videos like mad too when I bought my Sporty, but I had to wait five months for it! So creators like Blockhead and DanDantheFireman made me more excited to ride while I waited. Lots of riders from Canada here. Where in Canada are you from?
Yep im watchin them too lol. Cranbrook, BC here. I just got my bike back from its first service, 1000 Mi. Its running sweet. I was asking about Vance and Hines pipes/Fuelpack and I hear their in bankruptcy protection. Could be problematic on warranties Etc. so im considering and researching my options Thinking Ill just jump into a stage 4 1200cc mod this winter instead of just the stage 1. Only thing I did so far is the mirrors and that was a big improvement. Hey your link above to the saddle men step up seat doesnt work right. What model is it that you have if you dont mind me asking? :)
Sorry, I meant there are a lot of Canadians that have subscribed to my channel. It's fun to see! Most from eastern Ontario. You live about 65 Km north of where I decided to become a motorcyclist. In early June of 2016 I was climbing a steep hill on a forest road on my bicycle just north of Libby Montana when a motorcyclist gave me the biker wave. It planted the seed!
I might be making the same conversion to 1275 this winter as well. I feel it's the right time to do it. Thanks for letting me know about the bad link. Your best bet is Fortnine (link below). it's the front diamond stitch (Fortnine calls it the front lattice). They're out of stock right now and so is RevZilla, but leave your email at either and you'll get in line to get one.
Fortnine: fortnine.ca/en/saddlemen-step-up-seat
RevZilla: www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/saddlemen-step-up-seat-for-harley-sportster-with-33-gallon-tank-2004-2018
cool thanks. yeah gotta get a seat right away. My butt is just killing me today lol. Ill have to look at that 1275 kit.. hmmm lots to think about :)
What a great review. I chose the Iron 883 as my first bike myself. I have a class setup at the end of the week to get my endorsement as well as learn the basics. Thanks for the review.
That's awesome, Ronny! How did the class go?
@@GreatEgret I passed with flying colors man! So exited...
Congrats, Ronny!!
As a Brit I would love to do Route 66 on a 883. Seriously thinking about buying a new one from my local HD dealer in Leeds Yorkshire. Thanks for the video.
It's a great bike! Lots of fun to ride! I'm glad the video was helpful!
I agree, ever since I got my iron 883 2016 I’ve been riding it all year round! 🏍 To me I don’t see a girls bike, see and have a Harley-Davidson motorcycle that I love riding!! 🏍
Spot on, my friend! Thanks for watching!
I got a 22 iron 883 and love mine too gonna keep it for life
Damn fine bike!
Great review man!! I just picked mine up last week. I'll definitely be upgrading the handlebars to the mini-apes. I find them a lot more comfortable, especially with my bad back. I don't want to be leaning forward all the time.
Thanks man! Those mini-apes make a world of difference. Really made riding across the country on this bike possible.
Got a new subscriber here body! Got the 2016 Iron myself ,not new to motorcycles,but I wanted something easy to ride and this is my firts Harley . Greetings from Sweden. Al thou I’m from US originally.
Welcome to the community on this channel! Super cool to get riders from all over the world. The Iron is a great bike!
Great video egret. Love your content. Picked up my iron 883 last week (olive gold 😜). Absolutely love it and looking forward to personalising it for my taste. Already done a few bits like a seat swap sissy bar and forward controls (I am tall-so they work for me. Send you a pic but not sure how on here?
Got your message on Facebook! Love your bike, man! keep sharing if you mod more. Thanks for watching!
Great review. Love your channel. I recomend a S&S 1200 big bore kit...... If you love your bike now, you'll go crazy with this mod. I did it. It's another world.
I am modifying my 16 iron from 29 to 31 tooth front pulley for just a little better highway rpm. And yes I will keep mine forever.
I thought about doing the same. It's definitely a trade-off with low-end torque, but if you ride a lot of highway miles or live in an area with a lot of flat straight roads, it makes a lot of sense.
Great video. Liked how you added the history. Did you do a video on the biltwell chumps? Did you need to replace/ extend brake line? I have 2017 iron 883 with abs and not sure if I want to mess with break line.
Thanks for watching! The history of the sporty is interesting and such a huge part of what makes the a Sportster a Sportster.
I did have to replace the brake line. I didn't do an install video of the Chumps, but I did a video the day after I did. Sounds weird, but if you watch the video on how I modded out my bike for a Route 66 trip, it will make more sense. I linked it below. I lot of techs say that under no circumstances should you replace the lines yourself on an ABS Harley. They need to connect it to their tech II computer to keep air out out of the line. I did it anyway and I figured the worst that could happen was I would have to take it into Harley and pay the $400 to replace the line anyway. I say in the video and in the comments of the video that I wouldn't advise this for anybody else, but it worked for me. I paid $30 for a used line on eBay and an hour of installing and bleeding the line I saved myself a ton of money.
Route 66 Setup Video: th-cam.com/video/w6w2BUG-5Tc/w-d-xo.html
I talk a bit more about the Chumps in this video: th-cam.com/video/wNuHKzmCBHE/w-d-xo.html
I'll have a full review of the Chumps later this summer, but I will say the lack of knurling on them is a big problem.
What a great review..so much so I subscribed. For the past few years I wanted a H.D. Iron..although I have not ridden a "Cruiser" style bike since 1982...I have ridden may Sport bikes. But at 62 I found that my body was starting to complain (Mainly my hip) with the Sport bike seating position. So not knowing if I will even like a Cruiser motorcycle I did buy a (used) Yamaha Bolt that has a few performance mods. So far I really enjoy it and I can ride it for longer distances with out pain. However...I plan to purchase a used Iron 883 or perhaps a Iron 1200 in a year or two and keep the Bolt. Ride safe ..Sir.You have a great channel.
Thanks, Laurie! This was a fun video to put together. The Bolt is a great bike, but the Iron, either the 883 or 1200, is so versatile. Just a fun bike to ride and work on. Thanks for subscribing! I definitely have had a lot of fun adventures since this video.
I really enjoy watching your videos! Congrats.
Before making the decision to buy a motorcycle I have three questions and would really appreciate if you would take some time to answer it.
1. I'm looking to buy a Sportster, and I keep going back-and-forth between the Iron 883 and Roadster. Do you think it is worth to invest a little more and buy a Roadster?
2. I noticed you live in Dallas, and so do I. Do you think Dallas is a dangerous place to have a bike (do to its crazy drivers and the fact that you have to take the highway a lot?)
3. Due to the climate, you can't ride all year round (in Dallas). Is it still worth having a motorcycle?
I appreciate any help you can give me. Take care!
I'll do my best to answer these three questions 😎
1. Honestly, only you can answer this. There are so many factors that go into choosing a bike: riding style, ability, the type of riding you'll do, and most importantly, individual preference. Use this video as a starting point, watch other videos, read reviews and blogs on Sportys. Basically, do a ton of research. Most importantly, get on both bikes at H-D. Test ride the snot out of them. Then you'll know which one will be best for you.
2. I can't objectively answer this one. I've spent time in DFW, but I don't live in Dallas. I live in the friendliest city south of Canada. Madison, WI. Check out MCRider here on TH-cam. He's from DFW.
3. See #2. But I live in a winter climate and I ride year round in all types of weather. Check out some of my videos on riding in cold winter weather. I don't recommend it for everyone, but I have a good plan while I ride, so I'm comfortable with riding through the winter.
question if you're still responding to this one: how tall are you? i'm juuuuuuuuuuuust under 6 foot and want to not feel/look "too big" (I'm 185lbs) on it if that makes sense. really interested in this 883! went to the dealer yesterday and sat on some, and they felt good; but wasn't able to see what i look like on it. also, do you recommend buying new or used? Thanks man! Great review.
I'm 5' 10". If you want ABS, buy new. It's next to impossible to find a used 883 with ABS. Buy used otherwise. You'll save a ton of money.
Great video. How Tall are you. I am thinking about buying a 883 Iron i am 6 foot tall and was wondering if the bike will be to small etc..?
There are a lot of factors that go into this decision. I know guys my height (5'10" with a 31" inseam) that are uncomfortable on a Sporty. I also know guys that are 6'2" that are very comfortable. This is one of those situations where you got to get on one at the dealership and see how it works for you. Good luck!
One of the reasons I bought my 883 (2nd hand ‘09) two years ago was because of videos like yours. What handlebars are on this one in this video? Thx
Thanks! I put on 32K miles on my 883 in nearly three years and did a long term review of the 883 a little over a year ago. Those are the Biltwell Chumps. Good bars.
Hey man, quick thought for you on your up and coming Route 66 trip: what about getting a 4.5gal tank? I've heard word that gas can be scarce riding out west. From the dudes on the HDforums, there are some long touring Sporty guys that swear by the 4.5gal. Maybe you've already considered it but I just thought I'd throw that out there. I'm doing some shorter camping trips with my 04' XL883 that I converted to a 1250 and I'm considering either carrying a bit extra gas or a tank increase as much as I love the look of the 3.3 gal.
Thanks for watching! Not a bad suggestion, Brian. It would be fun to buy a tank and put my own design on it. For this ride, I'm going to carry a one or two gallon gas can. That should give me a minimum of 45 or 90 miles more depending on what I go with.
Don't go out of your way because I'll do some searches, but if you have a link to any forum that have useful threads about touring Sportys, I'd appreciate if shared them here. No biggie if you don't have them handy, though.
Well, there are a TON of threads on the Sportster section of HDForums but here's one I saw: www.hdforums.com/forum/sportster-models/1071202-any-touring-with-the-sportster-1200-custom.html
There's a few guys on the forum that tour on Sportsters and have put some serious miles on their bikes (a few over 100k, one over 200k). If you're not a member, you might want to create an account and look through the info on there. There is alot of good experienced information, but you have to dig a bit. You could also post up your plans on a new thread since I'd be willing to bet a lot of riders there have taken a similar trip like you're planning. Pick me up in Minneapolis on your way, I'll ride with you!
Thanks man.
Hey Brother. Great review. How tall are you? I’m 5’11 210lbs. Would this fit pretty well? Once I get back home I plan on going to the dealership and sitting on one.
I'm 5'10". This bike is perfect.foe me. I hope you you can get on one soon.
Great Egret thanks for the reply brother. Keep the videos rolling. I’m enjoying them.
I´m a tall guy (6 feet 2 inches) and I´m wondering if the Iron 883 is suitable for me...
Great review, Thank you!
I just suscribe to you channel and I do own an HD 883 and I liked a lot, this bike are like leggo toys for adults. Cheers from Cabo!
It's a fun bike, isn't it? I love how you can modify it to your personality. It totally is like leggos! That's a great comparison. Thanks for subcribing and I'm really jealous of your weather right now!
Hi nice review, what are your mods
Regarding the crankcase fumes getting on the exhaust and causing those fumes, just remember these fumes are also going into the air intake and into the engine, contaminating it. Although the EPA doesn't like it, it is better to vent these fumes to the atmosphere and allow clean, cool air to enter the engine. Your engine will thank you. My conversion cost about $10 in parts and took less than 2 hours. It is completely reversible in about 15 minutes. Check out Sportsterpedia for details.
Good tip, man!
Great content !
Thanks, man!
I live in rural KS and have been riding for about 13 years and I'm thinking about trading my 06 650 ninja for one of these. Buuutttt... I've also been drooling over a street bob. The iron 883 just seems to be a more practical and versatile bike to have while I'm getting married and starting a family.
That Fat Bob is an amazing bike, but dollar for dollar, you just cannot go wrong with a Sporty. The best part is H-D has such a generous trade-in on Sportsters because they want to move the "bigger" bikes. If you decide to get the Fat Bob in a year, you won't be out much money if any. Keep me posted with what you go with.
@@GreatEgret will do
I don't see it as a beginner bike or a "girl's bike". Whatever bike you ride (in my opinion) ought to be like an extension of yourself as you insinuated... like wearing a pair of shoes. When I get asked why I built a sportster chopper and not a big twin, my response is usually something like "a sportster because screw you". Piss on em. Ride what reflects yourself. You nailed it, amigo. I dig your ride too by the way. You got me wanting to try an Iron 883. I've been riding almost 20 years, and that bike is starting to grow on me a bit.
Since your first comment about your chopper, I've been wanting to see it! Will you document your trip? Do you have Instagram? It would be fun to follow that.
@@GreatEgret Sure. I plan on making some videos about the trip when it happens. Also you can check out my channel. I have a video about when I first built the bike and several other videos on the modifications that I made since it went together the first time.
@@GreatEgret My instagram is instagram.com/saddletrmp/
Your bike is a work of art, man!
@@GreatEgret Thanks, amigo :)
New sub here. I also have a 17' iron 883.. denim red. Love it man. I love in the mtns of NC and this bike... for me.. is perfect. I even take my wife alot. Together we only weigh bout 250lbs so it pulls us both with ease up n down the mtns. Love the channel... I've went back tryin to catch up on them. O n btw.. who cares if other people think it's a girl's bike... they dnt have to ride it. As long as u are happy that's all that matters.
Thanks for being part of the community here! What I like best about this is it's a small corner of how amazing the motorcyling community is. I bet the mountains of NC are a lot of fun to ride. I spent a lot of time in the mountains of Southwest Virginia just north of there and in Tennessee just west. So I know how beautiful that area is. I've never ridden a motorcycle there, though. Definitely on my list.
I just bought the same bike last week, 2017 883 red denim as well! First bike too, picking it up in the morning!
Hey Joe do you think using AMSOIL oil on iron 883 will be good idea?
Joey illiano I think using any good 20W50 oil is good idea. Just change it every 3-5K miles. Closer to 3K is better if you ride hard or in rough conditions.
Thank you very much Joe appreciate
I just got my iron 883 2020 about 2 months ago and I loved
Joey illiano it’s an amazing bike, my friend!
Muy buen video
Muy profecional
Mucha informacion
Muchas Gracias por el video y la historia de la sportster.
Mine,,, a 2004 Sportster Xl 1200 Custom
This is a great bike for those just starting out riding.
It was for me when I started riding six years ago.
I have one, if you’re bored of it you are not riding it enough !! Best bike ever I’m 6’ tall and 220 and I’m comfortable on it
Exactly right about being bored on it! Do you have forwards or are you riding it with mids?
Great Egret mids
Almost at 500 subs! I'm sure you'll hit that today!!!!!
Thanks for jumping aboard pretty early on!
We've come a long way, Will! Just hit 3K today!
Great video man . Good in depth rev . GHR
Thanks man! Appreciate it.
How about if I love this bike out the box and don't need to alter it?
Going to be a first time rider and this bike calls for me.
It's a super fun bike to ride stock! Go for it!
Great video I love my iron 883
Thanks, Daniel! Check out my 25K miles review video for a long-term review focusing on long-distance travel.
Did you have to get new cables when you put on the mini apes?
Throttle and clutch cables, no, but the brake line I did. This is the #1 question I get on this channel. I have four videos covering the Biltwell chump and cover changing out the line in depth in those videos. Head over to the playlist section and check out the Biltwell Chumps playlist.
Will do thanks!
How far do you lean into corners? I was considering that exact highway bar set up but worried I'll drag it because I corner on the very edge of the tire right where the HD logo is on the tires
I don't ride nearly as aggressively as you, but I'm pretty sure your pipes or primary chain cover would scrap well before the bar.
@@GreatEgret thank you for the response, figured be go to check into it before I decide to buy and then destroy something that cost probably $350 lol
They ain't cheap, my friend! I hope it works out for you.
Hey,what handle bars did you put on ur bike?thanks
Biltwell Chumps. I get asked this question a ton, so I created a bunch of videos on them: th-cam.com/play/PLRA7CrqQbaWI_9-yUBbR0GLkg7lm5kZfi.html
3000 mile review and the extended review will probably be the most helpful.
Great video!!! Wish you all the best!!! :)
Thanks much, man! I appreciate it.
Right on! Great video
Thanks, man! Glad you enjoyed it.
Great video! Thankyou !
You're welcome, my friend. Ride safe!
How much Galion tank take and for how many miles to end?
3.3 and roughly 145 miles (if I get my typical 45MPG)
The Sportser started as the K model in 53 and it had a flathead.
it's true that the Sportster was based on the K model, but that technically wasn't a Sporty. The Sportster officially came out in 1957. I recently saw a 2007 50th anniversary 1200. Man, that's a beautiful bike.
Agree with you 100%. 😁👍
I love how this old video is still getting watched by riders like you. Thanks, brother!
Good video.. almost made me regret selling my Iron for the Heritage.. almost. 🙂
Thanks! I love your bike, man! Truly jealous!
Never had the “Its a girl’s bike” comment in real life. The internet trolls wouldnt say that to you in real life smh... Nothing but compliments
I know, right?! There's something about hiding behind a keyboard that turns some people in to A-holes. With that said, for every one crappy comment, there are 100 amazing ones!
Overheat problems since this is air-cooled ?
I never have had any issues. Even in the heat of the New Mexico dessert. With that said, I've taken great care, both with maintenance and riding style to make sure it never was in a position to overheat. Since it is air cooled, YMMV, as they say.
@@GreatEgret Ahh ok, thanks for the comment :) I am actually looking at buying *883 super low* and the main thing that is bothering me is the fact that it is air-cooled.. i'll check more info about this bike too.
Not a prob, my friend. Check out my 25K review video. I cover both the good and bad, with a great deal of honesty. It's not a bike for everyone, but there are a lot of great things about it. For some the simplicity of an air-cooled motorcycle is great, for others it's the worst. Like a lot of things in life, there are trade offs to balance. Good luck with your decision.
That’s why I wanna have a HD so bad. Cuz they can be owned for your entire life.
No doubt, my friend! Such fun reliable bikes.
Great video.
Thanks much, Julio! I appreciate it.
Potato potato potato, haha true, you made my day haha, now when i will drive my GS ill go potato potato potato when accelerating LoL
Hahahaha! Nice! I'll do the same when I get on another bike too!
How can someone hate a motorcycle?
RIGHT?!
What headlight do you have on your Iron?
It's one I bought from Amazn a few years ago. They have really dropped in price since I bought mine. Here's a link: www.amazon.com/dp/B01DZU30S0/?ref=idea_lv_dp_ov_d&tag=aiponsite-20&linkCode=ic6&ascsubtag=amzn1.ideas.27ZJSP01NBD2R
Excuse me but how tall are you? That Iron looks huge
I’m 5’10”.
Great video! I recently just purchased my own 2018 iron. I have been interested in putting on some highway pegs. Could you show me a picture of your Highway bars? And also a link to where you purchased them.
Thanks, man! I can do better than just a picture and a link. I did a review of the Lindby Multibar. Here is a link to that video: th-cam.com/video/OzYFgL9Pb-g/w-d-xo.html There is a link to where I purchases the Lindby in both the description of that video. Thanks for watching!
Any mother probles?
Tanks for the información
De rien!
I don't understand why people consider sportsters girl spikes? I seen plenty of girls ride road Kings and road glides also soft tails. Does that mean all of those bikes are for girls too?
Right?! Girls bike comments only make the dude making the comment look impotant, uncreative and stupid.
@@GreatEgret Exactly! I've always admired Sportsters since I first saw one in 1966. Ride what YOU like and don't sweat what the next guy says.
So the Sportster consumes oil?
It spits it out of the breathers. Especially if you do a stage one. Oil gets into the filter and if it pools too much it can wind up on the bike and on you. It's also completely normal. Check out this article by RevZilla's Lemmy to find out why: www.revzilla.com/common-tread/wtatwta-why-harleys-leak
Hey man ever get a wobble on your bike? I only have 750 miles and I started to get a low speed wobble. Goes away at around 45 mph.
Did hit a pothole at about 45 mph the other day
A wobble is not a good thing at any speed. Check a few things:
1. Stearing head bearings are not messed up and in spec. Do the fall away procedure. This is most important. Google "death wobble" and you'll see how important having your stearing head bearings in spec is.
2. Fork pinch bolt torque
3. Axle bolt torque
The torque of the front axle nut is 60-65ft-lbs
Fall Away and pinch bolts can be seen here: th-cam.com/video/4GhnjBD_X1w/w-d-xo.html
Also, when you check the pinch bolts, check to see that your forks are at the same height.
Going to check all of it tomorrow and let you know. Sharing your videos with my friends as well. Keep it up!
Let me know how it goes!
Love my 16 iron only 350 miles
Great video my dude! Beautiful bike.
Thanks, bro! Such a great bike!
I lovee that color .
Isn't it great! It's perferct for me!
which bars are those?
Hey, man. Those are the Biltwell Chumps. I love them and hate them. I have four videos on my experience with them. Check out that playlist here: th-cam.com/play/PLRA7CrqQbaWI_9-yUBbR0GLkg7lm5kZfi.html
The 3000-mile review video and the video on how to keep them from slipping are the ones you'll want to check out. I have about 13K miles on them including a 4.5L-mile cross countery Route 66 trip, so I going to do an extended review of them soon.
Nice video bro i subed ;-) ride safe
Thanks, man!
will you ever sell it?
Never. This bike and I are bonded together.
oh cool, you won't
well done!
Yeah, man. Especially after the Route 66 trip. I'm not one to cling to material possessions, but this bike is just just different.
I have the same color sporster 2016
You and I have great tastes in bikes 😎
Should consider getting a job at HD u gonna sell ' em out before they could get produced !
Ha! That may be true, but there are A LOT of Sportys out there. Thanks for watching!
A girls bike...I hate those types. I was with the wife at a dealership once, she was looking, and there was a bike, cannot remember the make/model, but it was a 1400cc and it looked like a smaller bike, like a 750 and I commented something about the 1400 cc's and the salesman said something like..."It's just like any other v-twin"...I said, My Ducati is a V-Twin....he gave me a look and said, but that's a different kind of v-twin...whatever, haters gonna hate!
That obs shirt!
Heck, yeah! I've spent many hours there back in the day. Last time I was there I was disappointed to find out some jerk chiseled the nickel out of the bar that was there for years.
Great Egret I live on main Street so I spend time there
Drink a boot for me! Ah, good times