Anybody here have a Sportster 1200 custom? I would like to hear from owners on how the bike is on the freeway and with a passenger.
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Sportster 1200 custom owners
- Thread starter palmpalm
- Start date
I have a Sportster 1200 Low, which is pretty much the same thing (mid-controls instead of forward, different seat). To be honest, I try to avoid the highway when I can with this bike. Without a windshield the wind-buffeting is quite strong, and even with a windshield you can feel pretty beat up after a little while. Power isn't necessarily a problem, but the bike could really do with a 6th gear as the vibration in the handlebars and footpegs is a bit much. I've heard that Kurykakyn iso-grips and pegs can do much do solve this problem, but I have yet to install any.
The Sportsters are really in their element when booting around town or taking twisty country roads. The highway is doable, but not as comfortable as some other bikes. I can't speak for carrying a passenger, maybe someone else can chime in.
The Sportsters are really in their element when booting around town or taking twisty country roads. The highway is doable, but not as comfortable as some other bikes. I can't speak for carrying a passenger, maybe someone else can chime in.
I don't recommend it for very long on the 400 series. If two up on the highway is something you need to consider, look elsewhere.
Secondary roads, it depends on your passenger and combined comfort levels. You can get a decent seat that helps.
I take my daughters that are both under 100 lbs for scoots that are an hour or less. They still return for those trips for ice cream. Any longer and they decline the offer.
Secondary roads, it depends on your passenger and combined comfort levels. You can get a decent seat that helps.
I take my daughters that are both under 100 lbs for scoots that are an hour or less. They still return for those trips for ice cream. Any longer and they decline the offer.
My wide and I go for Sunday rides on secondary roads on my Custom. Power isn't an issue at all, and I have a backrest and touring seat that I put on for the occasion. I agree that the ergonomics aren't the best for longer rides for a passenger, but I can cruise at 120 Km/h up the 401 from Windsor to London by myself with no complaints, although my lowered drag bar definitely helps me with body posture against the wind blast.
JFD
Well-known member
Don't let her read this. lol
I dislike anything on this bike over 100..i'm a sail in the wind. I'm sure a windshield would make it doable. But as someone noted, it needs a sixth gear. I have a 31 (I think) tooth front sprocket ready to install, which should gear it better (I have an 883 converted to 1200 - gearing is slightly different) for hwy but i dont' go on any long treks or envision anytime soon.
JFD
Well-known member
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