XL1200L Seat Height... What gives???

Krazilee

I'm trying to decide which Sporty to get as my first. I have short legs (28" inseam) so I'm leaning toward the 883L only because of the 26.3" unladened seat height.

I prefer a 1200 but the Nightster styling is not me and the 1200L and 1200C have the exact same 28" unladen seat height (just a bit too high for me as I want my heels to touch the ground when I straddle the bike).

I don't understand why they call it "Low" when it's no lower than the Custom.

Please enlighten me.

Hobbit

the 1200L and 1200C have different rake in the forks and the C has a 21" front wheel.
the shocks are the same on both bikes but the low has lower front suspension as well

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Krazilee

Thanks for that info, Hobbit. I guess then it's either the 883L or 1200L with a lowering kit.

Hobbit

or - get a 883L and convert it to 1200 or bigger

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HDGAL

I'm 5'2, and touch the ground with my riding boots on, i have the 1200L, the low is not has top heavy as the custom.

Krazilee

Hobbit... I've read some discussions in which 1200 conversions were mentioned, but I figured that it would open a can of worms if not done right. The increase in power/torque would stress the lighter 883 components, true?
A 1200L with a lowering kit (front & rear) sounds less expensive and doesn't mess with the motor.

But since we're on the subject, what exactly is involved in a 1200 conversion and how reliable are they?

Hobbit

all the 1200 conversion includes is
1200 heads
1200 pistons
1200 barrels

and depending on the year bigger jets or a flash to 1200 specs on the ecm

The 883 does not have lighter components to stress as its the same crank/cams/oil pump/tappets/rockers/pushrods as the 1200 all you will have to do is swap to the 1200 pulley on the rear otherwise you will accelerate like crazy and run out of revs

the SE conversion for the new FI bikes is as reliable as the stock 1200

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mrs2cool

I'm 5' tall and ride an 883L .At a stop both my feet are flat on the road and that is very important to me.I have not ridden a 1200,so I can only speak from my own(limited )experience,but I have no trouble keeping up with the"big boys" power-wise. When I first started riding it ,I was put off by how top heavy it is, but after a year and 1500 miles, I think I've gotten used to it and seem to be okey with it. NOW, I'm ready to start customizing it!

Krazilee

I appreciate all the feedback.

Hearing from 883L and 1200L owners is very helpful.

I'm confident that I'll have no issues with the 883L. Although the dealer didn't have one that I could try, the seat height is actually a bit lower than my current learners 250. I'm able to have both feet flat on the ground still have my knees slightly bent. MRS2COOL proves that fact.

HDGAL, I must have shorter legs than you because when I sat on a 1200L at the dealer, both my heels were off the floor. Granted I was wearing sneakers. Maybe the seat was wider then normal. I should try it again with my riding boots on.

Hobbit, again you've provided much insight to the 1200 conversion. That certainly is a viable option. I can start out with the 883L. Don't need any extra power as I gain more seat time on a larger bike. When I'm ready, I'll install the 1200 conversion. It'll be the same familiar bike, more power and still be low...! Best of both worlds!

Oh Oh... am I becoming an HD addict even before I own one...???

Thanks again everyone!