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Sportster question

Discussion in 'Motorcycles' started by iliketurtles, Dec 7, 2011.

  1. Dec 7, 2011 at 7:42 AM
    #1
    iliketurtles

    iliketurtles [OP] Well-Known Member

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    Anyone own a sportster? If so, how tall are you? I was wondering if 6' is too tall to be riding that small of a bike.
     
  2. Dec 7, 2011 at 7:45 AM
    #2
    hookedontronics

    hookedontronics Well-Known Member

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    It's not too tall for 6'. There really is no "too tall" when it comes to bikes. There is, however, a "too short" when you can't touch your feet to the ground
     
  3. Dec 7, 2011 at 7:52 AM
    #3
    middiedefense

    middiedefense like a boss

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    I have a nightster and with the sport controls it was little uncomfortable butter not unbearable. I put forward controls on and it made a big difference. Only problem is I can't get as low through turns as before. Oh yea I am 6'2" Hope it helps.

    Also if you go to a HD dealer you can try out different configurations on a test bike and see which you perfer
     
  4. Dec 7, 2011 at 7:57 AM
    #4
    iliketurtles

    iliketurtles [OP] Well-Known Member

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    I'm in Afghanistan right now and they have one in their little Harley shack, and it felt pretty comfy. Just wanted to get some opinions other than the salesman's.
     
  5. Dec 7, 2011 at 8:16 AM
    #5
    Pugga

    Pugga Pasti-Dip Free 1983 - 2015... It was a good run

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    I would respectfully disagree with there not being a 'too tall' for a bike, especially when it comes to smaller cruisers.

    In my opinion, 6' is boarderline for the Sportster. It does have a more compact riding position so if you have really long legs, you might not find it overly comfortable. At 5' 9", I found it to be a comfortable riding position.
     
  6. Dec 7, 2011 at 1:23 PM
    #6
    Tacoma Mike

    Tacoma Mike 48 Year Chrysler/Toyota/ASE/ Master Tech.RETIRED

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    I'm 5'11" Have forward controls and I'm very comfortable. Mid controls or stock would be an issue IMO
     
  7. Dec 7, 2011 at 1:35 PM
    #7
    BattleStatic

    BattleStatic Gluten Free

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    Have a Nightster also with forward controls. I'm 5'11" and have no real issues. Except for long rides when I wish they were out a little further, maybe 2-3". Other than that I have no complaint.
     
  8. Dec 7, 2011 at 7:18 PM
    #8
    iliketurtles

    iliketurtles [OP] Well-Known Member

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    Is it fairly cheap to add forward controls?
     
  9. Dec 7, 2011 at 7:25 PM
    #9
    carcharias

    carcharias Giggiddy what what

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    I had a Sportster 883, am 6', and fit fine. The bike was slow, underpowered, and a Harley. The entire brand is highly over-rated, imo. Gimme Triumph, Indian, or even Royal Enfield.

    PS Thanks for your service!
     
  10. Dec 8, 2011 at 6:05 AM
    #10
    Dimonback

    Dimonback Well-Known Member

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    I'm 6', and had the 1200C. It felt like I was riding on the front wheel.
     
  11. Dec 8, 2011 at 6:21 AM
    #11
    BattleStatic

    BattleStatic Gluten Free

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    If you really want a Harley, I would recommend getting a Super Glide or a Wide Glide, or even a Fat Bob, more comfortable and you will not need to grow into a "bigger" bike later on down the road. If I could do it again I would have gone that route. You should be able to get either one at a pretty good price from those Exchange Car Sales places. And it will be waiting for you when you get back.
     
  12. Dec 8, 2011 at 8:14 AM
    #12
    SteelRain

    SteelRain Veteran Redleg

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    Ya...I agree with Steve. Look into the Street Bob as well. My Sporty fits me well, but I'm 5' 9" and built like a T-rex. Short stubby arms, and a big head.
     
  13. Dec 8, 2011 at 7:17 PM
    #13
    iliketurtles

    iliketurtles [OP] Well-Known Member

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    I'll check those models out..I want to call a dealer and see if they can beat these prices. They sell the iron with about a $500 discount and i'm pretty sure I still have to pay California taxes. I feel like I could talk a dealer down more than 500.
     
  14. Dec 8, 2011 at 7:32 PM
    #14
    AzogSS

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    6'1" and have a nightster with forwards and a mustang seat, I have been very comfortable on the bike.
     
  15. Mar 24, 2012 at 10:41 AM
    #15
    Harleyman2its

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  16. May 13, 2012 at 2:19 PM
    #16
    Coolerman

    Coolerman Well-Known Member

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    I am 6'1 and I have an 07 Nightster. I added the HD forward controls. I think they were a little over 300 on ebay. Not too difficult to install if you can turn a wrench and read some basic instructions. I also added Burly apes. I think its a comfortable bike, but it wont be as comfortable as say a Street Bob or any of the larger bikes. The price of the Nightster was far more appealing though and its a blast to ride. Most dealers will let you take a test ride. Good luck with your purchase.

    btw, Id say stay away from the 883(iron), they do look cool but are geared different and not as fun to ride compared to the 1200. I used to have an 883C and I always regretted not getting the 1200.

    312176_2352225080641_1100562831_2907933_1666715579_n.jpg
     
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