It can be a bit cramped in stock trim. You'd likely want a taller seat that puts you up and back. If you can, go sit on one at a Harley dealer, so you get a better idea of the ergonomics. -DrewZilla
I own a 1998 sportster 1200 custom , had 4 miles on it when I got it , it now has 94,450 miles and still running strong with no engine work. No oil leaks , no oil on my garage floor , its been a great bike. On long rides it avg 55mpg and doesn't burn any oil . I have changed the oil and cleaned the air cleaner every 2500 miles .
Best bike reviews on the net! Please don't loose the "what would I change" segment in your reviews. I loved that, it gave me direction as someone new to tinkering with bikes.
I suggest you find Ryan Fortnine on youtube. That guy is the penultimate reviewer of things. This review is a case in point: It feels like they have a very cozy relationship to Harley, and it feels like RevZilla is in the business of selling all these aftermarket components, so at the end of the day I feel like I watched an advertisement, not a review.
Lemmy is literally the coolest dude ever. I love your reviews so much, I decided to buy a Sportster Harley just because of the way you describe the legacy of the line!
Haven't gotten to try out the Roadster. Hope it's a good bike. I loved my 2009 Iron while I had it, but I think I'm going to go with the Indian for my next bike. If I only had the money to buy a new bike. :(
Great review Lemmy. I love mine, despite all the haters on here. The only thing I would say is that it appeared as if the rear shocks weren't adjusted for you. Looked like you were on 2 dot. HD would recommend about 12 dot, I have mine on 8 and its so money. I'm 6'0" and 215lbs. the new shocks and seat is why I held out for 2016. Great job, cant wait to see the mods.
+Adrian Rubi Many aftermarket parts for Harleys are made in the USA. For those that aren't, they're usually made in Asia, though some niche items are made in Europe or Canada. -DrewZilla
Hey! Great review. I'm real interested in getting a bike. But like you said this bike is good for shorter guys. I'm a big dude about 6'4 6'5 was wondering if this bike would still work fine for me. If not maybe you'd know a better alt for a first bike for me? I'd really appreciate it if you could help me out.
Even with a taller seat, the Sportster might still feel small for someone your height. If you really want a Harley, try sitting on a Dyna. If you're open to other brands, try a Kawasaki Vulcan S. If a Dyna is too expensive or feels too heavy, then I'd stick with a Sportster with a taller seat and forward controls. -DrewZilla
I was looking at a wide glide. But I wasn't sure mostly becuase of the price. But I might just go down to a harley dealer and see how they feel. So a taller seat may have to do.
I think this is the best, most comprehensive review of a bike I've ever seen. I already rode this bike but the salesman didn't convey even 10% of what I got here. Thanks!
Brand new rider here. Started looking at bikes, and the iron 883 immediately caught my eye. Watched this video and it confirms my wants even more. Great starter bike, plus I can customize it, and learn more about the bike and its parts? Hell yeah. I'll definitely be checking out the sportster mod videos, for sure.
I used to own the Iron. I would suggest going with the Scout. It's an all around better motorcycle. Sportster has more mods and different style though. So go with what you like better.
You know what's weird? I'm a petrolhead, love cars mostly. Today I saw this exact bike, I fell in love the second I saw it, made me want to get one. I love Harleys now.
I simply LOVE this review. VERY professionally done. Kept my interest, told me everything I was expecting and more, and the camera work was superb! Subscribed!
Travelling for work earlier this year I hit up Las Vegas Harley and rented a '16 Iron - loved it!. Cruised those same roads, and Red Rock too. Great review, and it was nice to see that bike in the canyons again!
Richard Perez "me too...cant decide between this and the Yamaha bolt" I'm the same, I wish they'd do a full Bolt review and maybe a comparison. Other sites have done this but as many state here, the reviews here awesome.
I have an 07 1200 XL Custom. It is the perfect bike for me. I have been riding since the late 80's and a steady riding for the last decade now. I can honestly say the Sportster is the only bike I have owned that fills all of my bike needs. Yes, mine drips a little bit a oil as well, and the engine is noisy and hot. Doesn't matter, I still love it.
My advice: don't buy a Sportster if all you want is to say you own a "Harley" (lotsa people do this). The Sportster is a magnificent bike that can be customized to anything you want; that's the beauty of it. Buy a Sportster if you're a motorhead and love customizing the bike to your own flavor. Get some AF fuel manager, pipes and taller Progressive shocks (minimum 3 inch travel) and you wake up this mini beast. Trust me.
These guys are so good with their reviews and all, I am willing to buy stuff from them ( even if May cost a little more ) just to give them business. They are great !! !
I love sport bikes. Taking my msf course this weekend and we've been riding street 500s. After seeing this I think I may actually get a sportster as my first bike.
Exhaust pipe and motor mount covered in motor oil?... One of those things you just have to live with if you love Harleys?... hmmm... that just do not sound right lol
+Michael Ogden Agreed. Any newer Harleys that I have heard leaking this badly are (usually, not always) improperly ridden during break in period. The same is said with most other bikes/cars if improperly treated during initial mileage...
zbb2stillalive don’t expect much. This one is a cheap trasher. Best upgrade is a different model or brand. It’s a bad bad purchase so expect people that don’t handle their finances well to be riding these.
Awesome as I have just got my Iron and it has all those odd mechanical noises Lemmy mentioned, that I just wasn't quite sure about!! now I am sweet. First thing I changed was the front headlight to one from Redzilla - saved a lot of NZ dollars and fitted it myself. Changed the seat and added in one for her in doors. Now checking out the stage one upgrade just like Lemmy said!
I just got a brand new iron 883 from Tobacco Road HD in NC and I love mine absolute amazing I had to change my seat and add straight pipes but it’s amazing
I'm getting this bike except mine will be the Olive Gold. I'm actually going to the Bank Mon. March 21 getting the money and paying the Dealer. Im getting 3 upgrades on it immediately and will be all set up on the bike and ready to go when I pick it up. They have to order the Bike and Parts. My upgrades are: V&H Short Stack Exhaust V&H Grenade Air Intake 1200 Bolt in Conversation Kit (not sure which one they chose for me) Tuner (not sure which one they chose for me) I'm super excited and can't wait!!! I love the video and RevZilla. I bought earlier in the month a Icon Airmada Thriller Helmet and Icon Reaper Jacket. I love them they helmet is bad as*. This is my first bike ever. I enjoy all your videos very informative you helped me to make decisions in what I wanted to get for pipes and Air. Thanks again and enjoy your bike. Congrats. I'm excited to see the videos on your upgrades with it!
I love your videos. Lots of great information with high production values. That's coming from a guy who has actually shifted gears on an old-time Allis-Chalmers.
For the me the best thing about this vid was the back drop. Having been through Red Rock Canyon on a '13 Dyna it brought back some good memories. Thanks for the memories Lemmy!
Basically...it leaks, doesn't corner too good, has noisy push rods (Who still uses push rods?...oh yeh, Harley Davidson does!) has some piston slap going on, needs more power, doesn't stop too well (no problem really because it doesn't go that well either) has only 2 inches of travel on the rear, can't carry a pillion and is fucking uncomfortable. Other than that...it's a great bike!????
That looks a lot more like road dirt/muck than motor oil, especially since the same gunk is on the forks. I don't think a brand new 2016 bike is supposed to spew oil.. Even if it is a Harley and "just one of those things you have to live with". Only reason a new Sportster may leak oil is if the level is too high and you're misting out the breathers and then leaking out the airbox. My Iron883 doesn't leak one bit of oil. Besides that, great review! I love my Iron!!
+YEG883 Im Looking in to getting my first 883 and the oil leak comment was a huge turn off for me. glad i read your comment and i hope my iron doesnt drip any oil.
+Cowboy Garcia I hope mine don't leak either. I just bought a 2016 Iron 883 on 3/26/16 but waiting for it to come in it's on order with some upgrades! I'm going nuts waiting for it. It's my first bike!
I still love my 1992 CB750 nighthawk over 2017 Sportster ironically there is little sport in it. Lighter, more powerful, bullet proof reliable, shifts smooth, and you can beat it every day in rain and mud and starts every time. I prefer value over superficial marketing "icon" That's the problem with Harleys they sell "lifestyle" instead of top notch motorcycles.Sadly loads of Americans buy them since they already bought the "lifestyle" I'll say take substance over overvalued sub-par motorcycle.
I took the Scout 60 over the 883. 999cc, better handling, forward controls, liquid cooled, and plenty of get-up-and-go even at highway speeds.Added mini-ape bars and passenger seat and pegs from the factory.Aftermarket mufflers, tune, and saddlebags.Only complaint would be that I could use a little more room on longer rides, but that's also what bigger bikes are for. It's a perfect commuter and weekend tripper.
Great reviewer and just what I'm looking for in a review. However, I must be spoilt with Japanese and German bikes over the years because this bike sounds like total rubbish! Oil leaks on a brand new bike??? Crappy shocks, strangled power, poor brakes and an uncomfortable single seat? No thanks. When Harley build a bike that doesn't need to have money spent on it right away, then I'll consider one.
I saw this video right before buying my 883 and am still riding the bike today albeit a "tad" modified (hardtail 😅). Still the best sportster review out there.
I own a 2010 HD Sportster 883 Iron. To fit my needs, I had the HD Shop replace the stock handlebars with 14" Apehangers, which are very comfortable, not too tall. Then, I had the foot pegs and grips replaced with Kyankin (spelled?) pieces. Also, I had the foot mid-controls replaced with forward-controls. Everything else is still original, even the exhaust system. However, at 60 years old, it is plenty fast and loud, for this old man.
I've always loved the Sportster but have never owned one. I've had Heritages and now a Tri Glide. If I were to buy a Sportster I would add a fly screen, Touring seat (for two) the passenger peg mounts, and pegs, A pair of longer (probably 1 1/2 inch longer rear shocks (Progressive) tp improve the ride, sissy bar, passenger back rest pad, luggage rack, and some sort of top truck or tour bag to carry our rain suits, heavy shirts ect.ect. The top truck on the Tri Glide has spoiled me and I no longer want saddle bags. Besides, saddlebags makes it hard to clean the rear wheel. Ride safe and enjoy every journey.
Thanks Lemmy. Just bought my 883 and was looking for a positive review. (Long time fan of your videos. Please keep making them. They are fun to watch and informative) Jim in Wisconsin
I owned a 2009 Iron for about 3 years. I did love the bike, but the quality was really lacking. Had an issue with the starter, had to have the low fuel sensor replaced quite a few times, and the paint on the tank came off. Otherwise it was a really good bike. Now, I think I'd take the Scout over the Iron. Got to demo the Scout 60, and it was one of the best bikes I've driven. I love the style, and think I could do some really cool stuff to it.
"It shifts like an old Allis Chalmers"...LMAO, As a owner of a 07 Sportster and '57 Allis Chalmers D14 this comment is perfect and hilarious. Hats off! (BTW 2 Milwaukee Companies don't know if you did that on purpose).
Kind of like shifting an old Allis Chalmers! The production values on this video are tremendous. Photography is wide-screen theater quality. Puts you right in the saddle in a Nevada desert. Expert commentary by Lemmy.
Nice review man 👍🏼...u did an honest one addressing all the pros and cons..it wud be great if u do video review for exhaust systems available for triumph T120 nd street twin like you did for the indian scout, which was awesome
"Clank like an old Allis-Chalmers" my friend, you're welcome at my ranch any day! As a collector of AC tractors and a sportster fan, cheers my brotheren of the American Iron.
Although I'm not a fan of having to add parts to make a bike legitimately better, I can certainly appreciate Lemmy for his enthusiastic and fun reviews. Perhaps Victor could've helped you find the parts, and Doc Mitchell to fix you up, since you were in Goodsprings after all...
I always enjoy revzilla reviews. This one is no different, especially since I live in Las Vegas (38 years) and ride my '05 xl1200c thru Red Rock (recognized in the thumbnail) often. At 5' 9" 185lbs my assessment of sportster braking is probably more favorable than Lemmy's due to simple physics. As for notorious H.D. oil seepage, I guess my bike would qualify as a lemon for having never sweated a drop after 53k miles. Someday I may upgrade to a bigger ride, but it's hard to justify when my Sporty does almost everything I need and does it reliably well. There's many reasons the platform has been around over 60 years. BTW... Red Rock is WEST of Las Vegas Nev-AD-a, same "a" sound as in cat, not Nev-AH-da. Ride safe.
Outstanding review and great video production quality, as always, Lemmy. I'm not in the market for a bike like this, but still enjoy and find interesting your videos.
Love these bikes ! But if you wanna go fast and handle nice around the corners (pegs touch easily) I’d recommend looking at other brands. A moto guzzi v7iii is a good option if you wanna be a bit faster and make it around the corners. (Speaking from experience)
I am as green as they come. Never had a bike, Never rode one but I am drooling for one. I am torn between the Iron and the Forty Eight. Would either of these be a good bike for a rookie?
Please consider a Triumph Street Twin instead or any number of great metric motorcycles. You get more for your money from the other brands and you won't need to swap out half the parts for better ones.
We already have a written review of the new Roadster, so we may or may not make a video review of it. -DrewZilla *www.revzilla.com/common-tread/harley-davidson-roadster-first-ride-motorcycle-review
Bro. This is a great HD Bike. I own the 2015 Iron 883. I live in Mumbai, India and this bike is head turner. The performance is superb on freeways and Highways. Although a bit tiring on busy Mumbai roads. For whoever planning to go for it, its a thumbs up from my side.
+olds461 I have an 04 Street Glide and an 08 electra glide, and a 12 Fat Bob. None have ever leaked oil. That said, pre twin cams, it is not unusual to see them marking their territory.
Oil leaks are not normal on Harleys since about 1984. If there's a leak it needs to be fixed right away. My Harley does not leak any oil and it is 19 years old. Otherwise, this is a great review of a great motorcycle.
You bums! I just bought an Iron 883 for a kick around town, "bar bike". I HATED the OEM handlebars, so I bought a set of Builtwell Chumps from you. They are what I call 'mini-mini-apes' (only an 8 inch rise) the only bars I could find that fit the scale of the little bike. With that done, I thought I was happy with my bike, BUT NOW YOU'RE GONNA GIVE ME MORE IDEAS FOR MODS?!?!?!?! You're just evil!!!! Keep up the good work!
Hey there! You say great for short inseam riders...what about taller guys?
It can be a bit cramped in stock trim. You'd likely want a taller seat that puts you up and back. If you can, go sit on one at a Harley dealer, so you get a better idea of the ergonomics. -DrewZilla
Just change foot peg in the front instead in the middle peg
GarethZero u can Jack it up higher
Timothy Rinaldi I have the same last name as u.
I'm 6 ft. Fits me fine. I have a 883r very similar to the iron.
I own a 1998 sportster 1200 custom , had 4 miles on it when I got it , it now has 94,450 miles and still running strong with no engine work. No oil leaks , no oil on my garage floor , its been a great bike. On long rides it avg 55mpg and doesn't burn any oil . I have changed the oil and cleaned the air cleaner every 2500 miles .
How’s it going now? Still happy?
@@armandblake it now has 108000 miles on her
@@tatonka55That's awesome dude.
Would this be a good 1st bike?
Hagrid got himself a Harley,love it.
Your a Harley Harry
Im dying 😂😂😂
dude was it a harley that hagrid rode?
Hagrid rode a Royal Enfield Bullet 500
thnks for clearing that up for me man.
haha, this guy is a younger version of Bobby from Sons of Anarchy
+Joshua Rainey Ha, I think you mean that Bobby is an older version of Lemmy. (ftfy) -DrewZilla
Or the guy from Harry Potter
Haha exactly my thought
@@jet0577 hagrid?
Haha yeah and he eats clay lol
Best bike reviews on the net! Please don't loose the "what would I change" segment in your reviews. I loved that, it gave me direction as someone new to tinkering with bikes.
I've never seen a such a great reviewer. Hands down the best I've ever seen! Keep it up sir!
Agreed!
Yes, Lemmy is a hoot! "Mr. Potato Head like nature of the Sportster". Love his reviews!
You should see Fortnite
Watch powerdrift videos
I suggest you find Ryan Fortnine on youtube. That guy is the penultimate reviewer of things.
This review is a case in point: It feels like they have a very cozy relationship to Harley, and it feels like RevZilla is in the business of selling all these aftermarket components, so at the end of the day I feel like I watched an advertisement, not a review.
Lemmy is literally the coolest dude ever. I love your reviews so much, I decided to buy a Sportster Harley just because of the way you describe the legacy of the line!
I recommend the Roadster. That's the Sportster I would pick if I bought one.
haha you don't have to tell me, I bought it three weeks ago :)
Too late now, but I would have gone with the Scout 60.
- Ex Iron owner.
By sportster, I meant the Roadster... no regrets :D
Haven't gotten to try out the Roadster. Hope it's a good bike. I loved my 2009 Iron while I had it, but I think I'm going to go with the Indian for my next bike. If I only had the money to buy a new bike. :(
the production and film quality of these reviews are unreal
The production value on these videos is outstanding...far above ANYTHING else in the industry. Keep 'em coming!
I vote for Lemmy to do a top gear style show...
Nothing is better then the train wreck noise of shifting gears on the HOG...
Great review Lemmy. I love mine, despite all the haters on here. The only thing I would say is that it appeared as if the rear shocks weren't adjusted for you. Looked like you were on 2 dot. HD would recommend about 12 dot, I have mine on 8 and its so money. I'm 6'0" and 215lbs. the new shocks and seat is why I held out for 2016. Great job, cant wait to see the mods.
+Adrian Rubi Many aftermarket parts for Harleys are made in the USA. For those that aren't, they're usually made in Asia, though some niche items are made in Europe or Canada. -DrewZilla
Hey! Great review. I'm real interested in getting a bike. But like you said this bike is good for shorter guys. I'm a big dude about 6'4 6'5 was wondering if this bike would still work fine for me. If not maybe you'd know a better alt for a first bike for me? I'd really appreciate it if you could help me out.
Even with a taller seat, the Sportster might still feel small for someone your height. If you really want a Harley, try sitting on a Dyna. If you're open to other brands, try a Kawasaki Vulcan S. If a Dyna is too expensive or feels too heavy, then I'd stick with a Sportster with a taller seat and forward controls. -DrewZilla
I was looking at a wide glide. But I wasn't sure mostly becuase of the price. But I might just go down to a harley dealer and see how they feel. So a taller seat may have to do.
+RevZilla Were the height or angle of the handlebars adjusted at all at the time of this video?
Take a look at our Sportster Mods Series for a ton of ideas on upgrades. -DrewZilla
*ruclips.net/video/oW7X_Qhtnic/видео.html
I think this is the best, most comprehensive review of a bike I've ever seen. I already rode this bike but the salesman didn't convey even 10% of what I got here. Thanks!
How have I never seen these videos before? Easily the best motorcycle review series I've seen, instant subscriber!
Keep it up.
I love my 883. Wouldn't trade it for the world!
☺
Brand new rider here. Started looking at bikes, and the iron 883 immediately caught my eye. Watched this video and it confirms my wants even more. Great starter bike, plus I can customize it, and learn more about the bike and its parts? Hell yeah. I'll definitely be checking out the sportster mod videos, for sure.
Habe eine sportster 833 ist voll geil hab soweit alles gemacht was mir passt jetzt nur noch Lenker und dann ist's ready
How did you go?
How’d it go?? You still alive?
Yep i'll be getting myself the Iron 883 instead of the Street 750
StarKnight619 streets are shit.
Thus why I said i'll be getting a Iron 883 Instead. Better over-all and more mods for it too
I think I'll get the 883 too.
StarKnight619 me 2
I used to own the Iron. I would suggest going with the Scout. It's an all around better motorcycle. Sportster has more mods and different style though. So go with what you like better.
I personally like the engine noise and transmission clank... just my opinion, reminds me of driving and old car or something
You know what's weird? I'm a petrolhead, love cars mostly. Today I saw this exact bike, I fell in love the second I saw it, made me want to get one. I love Harleys now.
This is like a TV show! Love it! Great production value! :)
78
Looking at buying my first bike since I was a teen and I thank you for the review.....definitely a lot different since my younger years.
I simply LOVE this review. VERY professionally done. Kept my interest, told me everything I was expecting and more, and the camera work was superb! Subscribed!
Travelling for work earlier this year I hit up Las Vegas Harley and rented a '16 Iron - loved it!. Cruised those same roads, and Red Rock too. Great review, and it was nice to see that bike in the canyons again!
This is some serious video editing, love the quality and the video overall.
Holy Shit!!!! Hagrid is doing bike reviews now?
Look out for his Hippogriff review coming soon! -DrewZilla
LOL!!!! OK... That bad boy can literally fly.
I’m freakin screaming 😂
The3dsGeek hahahahahahahahahaha
The3dsGeek your a biker harry !!!
Damn you guys. I was almost convinced to NOT get a iron, now I want an iron again.
me too...cant decide between this and the Yamaha bolt
Richard Perez "me too...cant decide between this and the Yamaha bolt" I'm the same, I wish they'd do a full Bolt review and maybe a comparison. Other sites have done this but as many state here, the reviews here awesome.
@@ripsaa2693 honestly man. Yamaha is #1 in reliability. But even I would get a Harley just because.. it's a Harley. All comes down to your priorities
@@ripsaa2693 I got a Bolt ✌️ I like it. I haven't ridden a Harley tho
I have an 07 1200 XL Custom. It is the perfect bike for me. I have been riding since the late 80's and a steady riding for the last decade now. I can honestly say the Sportster is the only bike I have owned that fills all of my bike needs. Yes, mine drips a little bit a oil as well, and the engine is noisy and hot. Doesn't matter, I still love it.
My advice: don't buy a Sportster if all you want is to say you own a "Harley" (lotsa people do this). The Sportster is a magnificent bike that can be customized to anything you want; that's the beauty of it. Buy a Sportster if you're a motorhead and love customizing the bike to your own flavor. Get some AF fuel manager, pipes and taller Progressive shocks (minimum 3 inch travel) and you wake up this mini beast. Trust me.
The quality of this channel is insane. Camera, editing,the reviews,etc= awesome
These guys are so good with their reviews and all, I am willing to buy stuff from them ( even if May cost a little more ) just to give them business.
They are great !! !
I have a 2016 48. It has no leaks, tons of power, and fantastic breaks. Much better bike than the iron IMO. Great review.
Anyone else think he looks like he could be Bobby Elvis' son?? lol
Lol kinda you could say
I can actually kinda see it
@@lizardsssreviewsss7505 Oh, you're right
You made my day! LOL
You guys make the absolute best motorcycle reviews ever. I could watch these videos all day long just to take in the amazing camerawork.
Not only do you guys do excellent gear presentations, your bike reviews are superb! Thanks for all that you do for us out in Cyberspace.
I love sport bikes. Taking my msf course this weekend and we've been riding street 500s. After seeing this I think I may actually get a sportster as my first bike.
Exhaust pipe and motor mount covered in motor oil?... One of those things you just have to live with if you love Harleys?... hmmm... that just do not sound right lol
+Michael Ogden Agreed. Any newer Harleys that I have heard leaking this badly are (usually, not always) improperly ridden during break in period. The same is said with most other bikes/cars if improperly treated during initial mileage...
For that i call BS
zbb2stillalive don’t expect much. This one is a cheap trasher. Best upgrade is a different model or brand. It’s a bad bad purchase so expect people that don’t handle their finances well to be riding these.
That just do not sound right. Even if his pappy married his his sister it didn't fect him none.
exactly...and I have Harley Street 750...love it and no oil leakage and the gears change quietly
One of my favorite upgrades was my dyna 2000 ignition. Biggest improvement was being able to shift early and hold it longer. It's a bit faster to.
Very enlightening intro and commentary on the bike, great for us people who weren't familiar with this bike. Thanks.
Awesome as I have just got my Iron and it has all those odd mechanical noises Lemmy mentioned, that I just wasn't quite sure about!! now I am sweet. First thing I changed was the front headlight to one from Redzilla - saved a lot of NZ dollars and fitted it myself. Changed the seat and added in one for her in doors. Now checking out the stage one upgrade just like Lemmy said!
LEMMY!!!!!! WHATS UP BUD!? ONCE AGAIN YOU'RE AWESOME DUDE!! Hahaha
I just got a brand new iron 883 from Tobacco Road HD in NC and I love mine absolute amazing I had to change my seat and add straight pipes but it’s amazing
I do love the denim black on this bike!
I'm getting this bike except mine will be the Olive Gold. I'm actually going to the Bank Mon. March 21 getting the money and paying the Dealer. Im getting 3 upgrades on it immediately and will be all set up on the bike and ready to go when I pick it up. They have to order the Bike and Parts. My upgrades are:
V&H Short Stack Exhaust
V&H Grenade Air Intake
1200 Bolt in Conversation Kit (not sure which one they chose for me)
Tuner (not sure which one they chose for me)
I'm super excited and can't wait!!! I love the video and RevZilla. I bought earlier in the month a Icon Airmada Thriller Helmet and Icon Reaper Jacket. I love them they helmet is bad as*. This is my first bike ever. I enjoy all your videos very informative you helped me to make decisions in what I wanted to get for pipes and Air. Thanks again and enjoy your bike. Congrats. I'm excited to see the videos on your upgrades with it!
I love your videos. Lots of great information with high production values. That's coming from a guy who has actually shifted gears on an old-time Allis-Chalmers.
For the me the best thing about this vid was the back drop. Having been through Red Rock Canyon on a '13 Dyna it brought back some good memories.
Thanks for the memories Lemmy!
Basically...it leaks, doesn't corner too good, has noisy push rods (Who still uses push rods?...oh yeh, Harley Davidson does!) has some piston slap going on, needs more power, doesn't stop too well (no problem really because it doesn't go that well either) has only 2 inches of travel on the rear, can't carry a pillion and is fucking uncomfortable. Other than that...it's a great bike!????
That looks a lot more like road dirt/muck than motor oil, especially since the same gunk is on the forks. I don't think a brand new 2016 bike is supposed to spew oil.. Even if it is a Harley and "just one of those things you have to live with". Only reason a new Sportster may leak oil is if the level is too high and you're misting out the breathers and then leaking out the airbox. My Iron883 doesn't leak one bit of oil. Besides that, great review! I love my Iron!!
+YEG883 Im Looking in to getting my first 883 and the oil leak comment was a huge turn off for me. glad i read your comment and i hope my iron doesnt drip any oil.
+Cowboy Garcia I hope mine don't leak either. I just bought a 2016 Iron 883 on 3/26/16 but waiting for it to come in it's on order with some upgrades! I'm going nuts waiting for it. It's my first bike!
Your bike reviews are so good, do more of them please
I still love my 1992 CB750 nighthawk over 2017 Sportster ironically there is little sport in it.
Lighter, more powerful, bullet proof reliable, shifts smooth, and you can beat it every day in rain and mud and starts every time.
I prefer value over superficial marketing "icon" That's the problem with Harleys they sell "lifestyle" instead of top notch motorcycles.Sadly loads of Americans buy them since they already bought the "lifestyle"
I'll say take substance over overvalued sub-par motorcycle.
Holy mother fuck he's in goodsprings nevada thats in fallout new vegas
Lemmy is the man! My son convinced me to to trade in my 2018 Moto Guzzi V7 III Special and get a Sportster 883. It fits me much better. I love it.
I took the Scout 60 over the 883.
999cc, better handling, forward controls, liquid cooled, and plenty of get-up-and-go even at highway speeds.Added mini-ape bars and passenger seat and pegs from the factory.Aftermarket mufflers, tune, and saddlebags.Only complaint would be that I could use a little more room on longer rides, but that's also what bigger bikes are for. It's a perfect commuter and weekend tripper.
Great reviewer and just what I'm looking for in a review.
However, I must be spoilt with Japanese and German bikes over the years because this bike sounds like total rubbish!
Oil leaks on a brand new bike??? Crappy shocks, strangled power, poor brakes and an uncomfortable single seat? No thanks.
When Harley build a bike that doesn't need to have money spent on it right away, then I'll consider one.
p1p1
+judas2610 yeah, but, the engine is just so bad ass.
judas2610
You don't get it then.
What's there to get? A brand new premium priced 800cc motorcycle shouldn't need tuning or a new suspension right out of the factory.
Lemmy is the man! Keep these motorcycle reviews coming!! Hell...give Lemmy his own TV show!
Excellent review as always! My first bike was an Iron 883 and it highly recommend it!
I saw this video right before buying my 883 and am still riding the bike today albeit a "tad" modified (hardtail 😅).
Still the best sportster review out there.
Like your style Lemmy.
I own a 2010 HD Sportster 883 Iron. To fit my needs, I had the HD Shop replace the stock handlebars with 14" Apehangers, which are very comfortable, not too tall. Then, I had the foot pegs and grips replaced with Kyankin (spelled?) pieces. Also, I had the foot mid-controls replaced with forward-controls. Everything else is still original, even the exhaust system. However, at 60 years old, it is plenty fast and loud, for this old man.
Loving the production on this review.
I've always loved the Sportster but have never owned one. I've had Heritages and now a Tri Glide. If I were to buy a Sportster I would add a fly screen, Touring seat (for two) the passenger peg mounts, and pegs, A pair of longer (probably 1 1/2 inch longer rear shocks (Progressive) tp improve the ride, sissy bar, passenger back rest pad, luggage rack, and some sort of top truck or tour bag to carry our rain suits, heavy shirts ect.ect. The top truck on the Tri Glide has spoiled me and I no longer want saddle bags. Besides, saddlebags makes it hard to clean the rear wheel. Ride safe and enjoy every journey.
Saw an Harley, read "Lemmy", subscribed
Thanks Lemmy. Just bought my 883 and was looking for a positive review. (Long time fan of your videos. Please keep making them. They are fun to watch and informative)
Jim in Wisconsin
“It’s not the greatest...” is used rather a few times in this review.
I owned a 2009 Iron for about 3 years. I did love the bike, but the quality was really lacking. Had an issue with the starter, had to have the low fuel sensor replaced quite a few times, and the paint on the tank came off.
Otherwise it was a really good bike. Now, I think I'd take the Scout over the Iron. Got to demo the Scout 60, and it was one of the best bikes I've driven. I love the style, and think I could do some really cool stuff to it.
you have reviewed 2 out of the 3 bikes i've ever had, you are Just missing the sportster forty-eight 1200
"It shifts like an old Allis Chalmers"...LMAO, As a owner of a 07 Sportster and '57 Allis Chalmers D14 this comment is perfect and hilarious. Hats off! (BTW 2 Milwaukee Companies don't know if you did that on purpose).
I just turned 18 and I'm getting this bike as my first vehicle this summer.
Kind of like shifting an old Allis Chalmers! The production values on this video are tremendous. Photography is wide-screen theater quality. Puts you right in the saddle in a Nevada desert. Expert commentary by Lemmy.
This guy has an excellent presentation...
In my personal opinion, HD Iron 883 and RE Classic are the best looking bikes out there ever! Love both of them.
Nice review man 👍🏼...u did an honest one addressing all the pros and cons..it wud be great if u do video review for exhaust systems available for triumph T120 nd street twin like you did for the indian scout, which was awesome
"Clank like an old Allis-Chalmers" my friend, you're welcome at my ranch any day! As a collector of AC tractors and a sportster fan, cheers my brotheren of the American Iron.
Now this is a review. Great work boys.
Thanks for the review. I wanted a Bonnie until I started customizing my Sportster.. you can turn it into anything you want!
killin it with the production
Jesus, the quality of this channel is remarkable.
I stumbled upon this video by chance and I'm glad I did. Lemmy, you're one heck of a reviewer! Thanks for one awesome video!
Although I'm not a fan of having to add parts to make a bike legitimately better, I can certainly appreciate Lemmy for his enthusiastic and fun reviews. Perhaps Victor could've helped you find the parts, and Doc Mitchell to fix you up, since you were in Goodsprings after all...
The only modernization Harley has made with this bike is with the price tag.
*****
Lol, exactly.
they are such a rip off these bikes and the parts . they just keep ripping you off however i still own one 😆
Nope they've been fuel injected for several years. So just the price tag lol
I always enjoy revzilla reviews. This one is no different, especially since I live in Las Vegas (38 years) and ride my '05 xl1200c thru Red Rock (recognized in the thumbnail) often. At 5' 9" 185lbs my assessment of sportster braking is probably more favorable than Lemmy's due to simple physics. As for notorious H.D. oil seepage, I guess my bike would qualify as a lemon for having never sweated a drop after 53k miles. Someday I may upgrade to a bigger ride, but it's hard to justify when my Sporty does almost everything I need and does it reliably well. There's many reasons the platform has been around over 60 years.
BTW... Red Rock is WEST of Las Vegas Nev-AD-a, same "a" sound as in cat, not Nev-AH-da. Ride safe.
Outstanding review and great video production quality, as always, Lemmy. I'm not in the market for a bike like this, but still enjoy and find interesting your videos.
Can't wait for this series. I bought a 1200 last year, and it's time time wrench.
Your videos are always on point. Dig it man
For the past 2 years I've wanted one... they keep getting better and better... I need to get one!
From an ex iron owner, I'd say go with the Scout 60, unless you're just in love with what a Sportster is. Just a personal suggestion.
I have to say that this video greatly influenced my decision to buy a 2016 sportster. Thanks for the awesome review!!
Naive fool.
I love the Lemmy reviews. I could watch them all day. The Harley reviews have really helped.
Just what a new rider would want, Oil puking out of the motor and eventually on the bike tire 😂😂😂
OBSESSED over my Sportster 883! Love the mods available and how much I can do with this bad boy with very little fab.
that intro was nice, i thought you were making a music video for a second :)
Joe G.P. do u know the music in the intro?
Love these bikes ! But if you wanna go fast and handle nice around the corners (pegs touch easily) I’d recommend looking at other brands. A moto guzzi v7iii is a good option if you wanna be a bit faster and make it around the corners. (Speaking from experience)
I am as green as they come. Never had a bike, Never rode one but I am drooling for one. I am torn between the Iron and the Forty Eight. Would either of these be a good bike for a rookie?
The Iron would be a good choice. -DrewZilla
RevZilla thanks.
Please consider a Triumph Street Twin instead or any number of great metric motorcycles. You get more for your money from the other brands and you won't need to swap out half the parts for better ones.
How does this channel not have a million subs already?!?! I don't even have a motorcycle and I always watch these videos.....
Thanks! I guess tell your friends? -DrewZilla
Please make a Harley Davidson Roadster review!
We already have a written review of the new Roadster, so we may or may not make a video review of it. -DrewZilla
*www.revzilla.com/common-tread/harley-davidson-roadster-first-ride-motorcycle-review
I'm still stuck between a 48 or an 883. I like them both
@@chancer194 go 48
Bro. This is a great HD Bike. I own the 2015 Iron 883. I live in Mumbai, India and this bike is head turner. The performance is superb on freeways and Highways. Although a bit tiring on busy Mumbai roads. For whoever planning to go for it, its a thumbs up from my side.
Hey man
Ik it’s been 6 years.
But how’s the experience and maintenance cost for the iron ?
Any oil leaks or something.
he dead sorry my nigga@@keyurjadav619
Wait, did he say Harley's are still leaking oil?
+olds461 I have an 04 Street Glide and an 08 electra glide, and a 12 Fat Bob. None have ever leaked oil. That said, pre twin cams, it is not unusual to see them marking their territory.
Oil leaks are not normal on Harleys since about 1984. If there's a leak it needs to be fixed right away. My Harley does not leak any oil and it is 19 years old. Otherwise, this is a great review of a great motorcycle.
great video man I look forward to this
You bums! I just bought an Iron 883 for a kick around town, "bar bike". I HATED the OEM handlebars, so I bought a set of Builtwell Chumps from you. They are what I call 'mini-mini-apes' (only an 8 inch rise) the only bars I could find that fit the scale of the little bike. With that done, I thought I was happy with my bike, BUT NOW YOU'RE GONNA GIVE ME MORE IDEAS FOR MODS?!?!?!?! You're just evil!!!!
Keep up the good work!
This guy is cool, I like him
+Corvux IX *I like this review :)
I do love Lemmie's unbias and honest approach to bikes and parts