Are Harley Sportsters Good Bikes: A Comprehensive Analysis
Choosing the right motorcycle depends on your specific needs and preferences. In this article, we delve into the pros and cons of Harley Sportsters. Specifically, I will share my experience with a 2009 883 Sportster and provide insights on what makes it suitable or less suitable for different riding scenarios.
My Personal Experience with a 2009 883 Sportster
I had the privilege of owning a 2009 883 Sportster for three years and put about 25,000 kilometers on it, including an exciting road trip to southern Brazil, where I reside in BrasÃlia, a city in the Midwest region. Here, I will discuss what I think about this motorcycle and provide recommendations for potential buyers.
Reliability and Roadworthiness
The 883 Sportster is reliable, provided it is well-maintained. It is roadworthy for solo riders, but it's not ideal for journeys with a passenger. The motorcycle does require upgrades like rear shocks; OEM shocks until 2016 are not up to par, making the ride similar to a hardtail bike. Upgrading the seat or rear shocks can significantly improve the riding experience.
Two-Up Riding and Comfort
The motorcycle can accommodate a rider and a passenger, but the ride is cramped. For solo rides, the bike is highly agile and performs well in corners; dual brake rotors on the front version make it even better. However, two-up trips over 100 miles can be uncomfortable for both the rider and the passenger, as the motorcycle is small and doesn't provide ample space or comfort.
Design and Performance Issues
The motorcycle has some design issues, notably the clutch spring plate. This part, located in the middle of the clutch pack, is designed to soften the clutch actuation mechanism. Unfortunately, the rivets on this spring plate tend to break, causing a major issue. However, this flaw can be corrected by using aftermarket or Harley-Davison clutch packs that eliminate this piece and replace it with extra friction discs and separators. This can also be done in the stock clutch.
Engine Upgrade Options
The 883 and 1200 versions of the Sportster have some excellent upgrade options, particularly for stage 1, 2, and 3 setups. These upgrades can significantly enhance the engine's performance.
Recommendations
Based on the above considerations, I recommend the Sportster only for solo riders. If you intend to ride with a passenger frequently, consider a Softail model like the brand-new M8 or a used Twin Cam, depending on your budget. Alternatively, if money is limited, a Dyna Switchback FLD is also a solid option. For solo riders, I also recommend checking out the Indian Scout for a different experience.
Ultimately, whether or not a Harley Sportster is the right bike for you depends on your specific riding needs and priorities.
Note: This article is based on personal experience and may not apply to all models or individual cases. It is always recommended to test ride the bike before making a purchase.