If there was a year...what would it be?

[Borne]

Regarding Sportsters, looking to see if there are better years than others. Whether its an 883 or 1200, what would you say is the best year to look for? Are there any in particular? .........

[chardhin1999]

for what you want to do with them I would say after 2003 the engines were rubber mounted making for less vibs from the motor, I think after 2005 the carbs went away and are now fuel injected. I owned an 03 883 the thing vibed so hard my fellas would get so numb I would have to make some adjustments regularly to the crotchal region, I have an 05 883 now and its smoother and much less noise from the primary and pistons. thats all I can tell you I am sure there is more to know.

[vlade]

Have you looked at the XR1200 ?? I think the 04's plus gained alota weight.
Probably have to go with a chain drive mod ???? And lord knows what else never really studied up on it

[chardhin1999]

always wanted to ride on of those.

[chardhin1999]

Originally Posted by Borne

no worries about that I bet you will find your place and have a lot to offer this forum

[Dave63]

Originally Posted by chardhin1999

for what you want to do with them I would say after 2003 the engines were rubber mounted making for less vibs from the motor, I think after 2005 the carbs went away and are now fuel injected. I owned an 03 883 the thing vibed so hard my fellas would get so numb I would have to make some adjustments regularly to the crotchal region, I have an 05 883 now and its smoother and much less noise from the primary and pistons. thats all I can tell you I am sure there is more to know.

1988 1200 cc engine replaces 1,100 cc engine.

1988 Constant velocity carburetor replaces butterfly carburetor.

1991 Five-speed transmission replaces four-speed. Belt drive replaces chain drive on 883 Deluxe and all 1200 models.

1993 Belt drive made standard on all Sportsters.

1994 Improved oil tank, battery tray, and clutch made standard. New electrical system with sealed connectors

1998 XL1200S model gets dual spark plug heads and high performance cams, with adjustable front forks and reservoir rear shocks.

2000 Introduced sealed wheel bearings and updated 4-piston brake calipers.

2004 All-new frame including rubber-mounted engine for decreased vibration. Elimination of the transmission trap door.

2005 Enlarged rear axle to 1" for increased stability.

2006 Helical cut transmission gears in all models reduces gear whine

2007 and up, all EFI, no more carbs.

[Borne]

Thanks. Was looking at the XR's too, just doesn't have the "coolness" factor of a regular sportster.

Thanks for all the input fellas! Dave, you have once again left me in aw.

Definitely would much rather have FI than Carbed so it looks like I'll be trying for something fairly new. Just have to go with the chain and front swap and maybe a few other mods.