Riding a Harley-Davidson Sportster, is it for me?
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- Опубликовано: 23 сен 2024
- Today I’m riding Justin’s ’78 Sporty XLCH.
This episode has its highs and lows. I’m determined. I really want a sporty but I’m still trying to figure out if it’s right for me.
Totally share any insights you have in the comments. Also let me know of any mods that may be helpful for me in the future if I get a Harley of my own.
🌹Subscribe🌹 to see more of my adventures!
[S3E10]
I taught my wife to ride in 1977. It lifted her spirits on a tough day. She retired her Yamaha V Star 650 dresser last year. I'm returning to riding on a 1984 700 Virgo. We've both ridden numerous bikes. I do hope to have a Harley, likely a Sportster even though I'm 71 years old. I know with the positive spirit you share with all us viewers today, you will find just the perfect frame and position of all the levers and pegs to give you the endless joy of flying on two wheels! Oh! First ride was a 68 305 Honda Scrambler. Bye for now!
So, totally off topic here. I love your content and all of its worth! Truly you’re amazing and an inspiration for anyone overcoming their fears. However, can I state the obvious? Your finger nails are fabulous!!!! As a brother to 4 sisters and a Dad of two daughters, I notice these things. The shape, the colors… perfect! What’s amazing is you’re not afraid to get your hands dirty and those nails are intact! The Robbin’s egg blue and the candy apple red are stunning! Your spirit and energy is real. I have had the pleasure of meeting you briefly at one of Justin’s gigs! I’m looking forward to your next ride! On what? we will see. Stay safe!
hahaha well this made my day! I take pride in my nails, maybe too much 😆 but at the same time I'm not afraid to ruin them, they always grow back! Plus, I absolutely love painting and shaping them. Appreciate you calling that out!!! Thanks for watching! Oh and I heard the show was great last night! Hope to see you soon:)
They aren't all difficult to ride. That Sportster is approaching 50 years old. Test ride something even a little more modern and you'll have an easier time.
Good point!
It is awesome that you shared this with us. Your honesty on everything means alot. You'll find a new bike soon, keep looking!
It was definitely hard to share the parts where I struggle, glad I did though! Thanks so much for watching & appreciating the videos 🌹
Your husband's Sportster is cool, but if you're looking for a reliable HD I'd recommend one of the more recent year Iron 1200s or even the Nightster with the new engine. The ergonomics are better even with the Iron 1200s. Newer Sportsters/Nightsters have five gears so are more comfortable cruising above 40mph.
The Nightster is nice, but I doubt if it is in their budget. (used ones aren't that cheap either.)
@@pcthayerMaybe a used or late stock Iron 1200
@@motomike71 That would be cool...there are several reasonably priced ones on craigslist.
Yeah, I'm definitely looking at ergonomics on my next bike. Thanks for the suggestions, I'll look into both of them!
This is so great! So, you may have found that Justin's Sportster is not for you, but keep riding it occasionally just for comparison. Meanwhile, I'd LOVE to see you do a series where you test ride a bunch of prospective bikes you're looking at to possibly purchase. Please don't limit yourself to H-D. Try lots of different configurations and bikes. Try a BMW, or a Triumph, or a Rebel 1100. I think just trying different bikes can really improve your riding, as well as help you decide what bike is best for YOU!! Love your videos! Keep 'em comin'!!!!!!
Bugzy had a ride on the Rebel 500 the other day so a good shout for the rebel but it didn't seem exactly what she wanted in that video. I Second a series for testriding stuff, there's a lot of material for people who are into the high end stuff that sadly the midrange stuff seems to get missed a bit.
Thank you so much! I'll totally get some more test rides going. After reading these comments I'm definitely not fixed on HD like I thought I was. Thanks for watching and always cheering me on!!
Best video yet good job B
Triumph makes cool twins. Something like a Street Twin 900 would be easier to ride, easy to live with, sounds good, modern - but looks like a classic British bike. 'Worth a demo ride.
I'm totally going to try and book a demo ride for something like a street twin, thanks so much:)
@@BugzyMoto Royal Enfields are worth checking out also and no much money
Awesome you at least gave it a go. You'll find the bike that fits you. Mantis are cool. Ive kept them before. Spiny flower mantis are super cool.
wow I just looked up pics of the spiny flower mantis, so cool!! Thanks for watching:)
sporties are extremely cool bikes, I have one in my garage. that being said, a 4 speed shovelhead with drag bars is gonna be way different than an evo with mini apes or even stock bars. When I got my sportster it had drag bars. One ride with those and immediately changed them. The good thing about these bikes is you can make them fit however you want. That being said, they aren’t for everyone by any means. Sorry if I’m saying shit you already know!
Love your videos!! I’m a graphic designer rider myself, your videos are great
Good point, the handle bars on Justin's bike are soo not what I would choose, I really like the bull horn style (like on my bike) for riding but it makes pushing it really hard. Yeah, I'm looking for my next bike to be something that I can make my own with mods and stuff.
Love that you're a designer too! Thanks for watching, glad you're into the videos, stick around! 🌹
It's an Ironhead,not a Shovelhead
@@dynamite3344 my bad!
Wow. I cant imagine a more challenging bike for you. A cheap new bike will be more forgiving, and allow you to enjoy the experience. I recomend a RE Classic or Meteor 350.
Cool bike, I have a 1988 Lowrider 1340cc, hotted up these day, heavy clutch compared the modern bikes, backfires through the carb and exhaust, but it is fun to ride in an old way.
I’m really enjoying watching your videos and everything you’ve been learning and experiencing!
As for the clutch lever, here’s the advice I received. “Think of riding someone else’s bike like borrowing their car: you’re going to adjust the seat and mirrors. With a bike, adjusting the levers is a similar thing”. Thankfully, it’s usually simple to fix the distance struggle with most clutch and brake levers (especially with how far away that looked 😮) by adjusting the cable adjuster nut. If after that, it still takes a lot of strength, the cable could need lubricated.
Hope that helps a bit, and can’t wait to hear about the hugger! 🩷
Oh my gosh, ok so I feel like you're a girl and that just made me so excited. I'm really happy you're enjoying the channel and thanks for sharing that advice. Hope to hear more from you! 🌹
Ironheads aren’t for everyone. Good for you for trying different models, and riding on the back of it tooo 😜 most new to you bikes will need adjustments when you “move into em” after buying: changing bars, seat to match your body on any motorcycle is essential to make it comfy for u 🦅💚🏁😁 Ride free and super cool! And EVO sportster hugger model is the business for new sporty riders, low and comfortable.
I had a 1996 sporty that I rode from. 97 to 2001 it had the 1200 Evo motor,It was super easy and fun to ride.try one I guarantee you’ll love it
Great bike , it's pretty amazing classic bike
So, the ironheads are kind of known to be troublesome. The carbs, the clutch pull, exhaust manifold bolts, but in general, they're just easy to find. The clutch pull is the absolute worst on an ironhead. I've been riding for 20+ years, and I've never felt a clutch worse than an ironhead. That being said, a newer Evo sportster, either size, is a massive step in the right direction. If you're set on Harley, I'd look into one of those. But I wouldn't shy away from checking out other brands. The 865 Triumph Bonnevilles can be found fairly cheap, and are pretty good bikes that give that twin, throaty growl. The new Royal Enfields are pretty great bikes for not a lot of money as well. Just make sure you keep up with maintenance and keeping it dry. In any case, good luck, and ask questions for the comments section to answer. Some of us want nothing more than to watch someone enjoy motorcycles.
ohhh you saying that about the clutch makes me feel so much better. and yeah, after hearing from you guys in the comments I'm definitely not 100% stuck on HD, I'm open to trying other things. I wish I rode Ricky's Bonneville when I was in TN, I'll be back there soon and I'll test it out then. I also really love the style of Royal Enfields but again, never rode one... I have a lot of bikes to test out:) Thank you so much for watching and sharing insights with me!
If you're really determined on a Harley, try that newer Sporty or possibly a Street 750 or 500. I test rode a 750 when I started riding, and found it very easy. I have to say, his bike has great paint. Looks nice.
This bike feeling uncomfortable only means that it isn't set up for you. There are plenty of options for a softer clutch, and the ergos will come together when you can fine tune it for you.
I live in Weymouth and have a 2023 Nightster, if you and or Justin wanna try riding it you’re more than welcome
thats so nice of you, thanks for the offer and thanks for watching!
U need to check valve adjustments may be too tight😊
you gotta lube up that clutch cable real nice 'n slick
I have a love-hate relationship with Harleys. I've had a couple, but I've also owned other bikes. Harleys are good for cruising (probably the best at that, in my opinion) but are terrible if you want to RIDE a motorcycle. The balance is bad, they scrape when you even think about cornering, and you have to send a prayer up if you need to do aggressive braking or maneuvers. I would strongly suggest you throw a leg over everything and anything, such as the Triumph, BMW, Royal Enfield, Ducati, and Moto Guzzi (I love Moto Guzzis), to name a few. Also, try different kinds of bikes; you may like naked streets, dual sports, or even adventure dad bikes.
Also, I'm trapped on the Cape and watch with envy as you guys can just hop on the bikes and ride away. The bridges get so backed up that the thought of getting caught up in that traffic kills my desire to ride. I refuse to ride on the Cape during the summer. I know too many people who have been seriously hurt and even a couple who have been killed while riding here during the summer.
Thank you for such a great comment here! I’ll be test riding a whole bunch of bikes in the next few weeks. Soo excited to try a moto guzzi got my eye on a V85 TT 😍
So interesting to hear your thoughts on the cape! I know traffic is bad but I never thought about it in the sense that it’s a danger to riders. I actually always felt like people were polite and calm on the road when I spent time in Falmouth. Makes me question if I want to ride there this summer, I’ve had it on my list, maybe I’ll do it in the fall instead.
You should try a softail if you want a little more comfort and foot position. Definitely sonething newer even a newer sportser.
Ooo yea great video. Go to my play list carb tunning super easy stuff I explain everything
Sounds more like an intake leak to me
Work on your xs to improve reliability like i have still nothing wrong in testing other bikes keep them coming 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍😊
You may like cruiser style bikes but you may want to try a sporty type bike too. (not hardcore sports but something like the Ninja 650). They are usually lighter and more nimble. So many people have multiple bikes, since one bike usually doesn't satisfy all their needs. (The Vulcan S is 1/2 cruiser and 1/2 sports since it has the Ninja 650 engine.) (As far as used bikes though, cruisers are usually less abused than sports bikes.)
I'm totally open to sport-style bikes, you'll have to check out my next video when it goes live later today:)
@@BugzyMoto I can't wait!!! Thx for the heads up that a video is coming soon. 🙂
Blue pipes??-probably a lean issue-is there an accelerator pump??-maybe not right
Carb pilot circuit is messed up. It definitely shouldn't be sputtering low throttle position. The clutch is a easy fix with a simple lever. Don't get stuck on a brand. Try a few bikes before yo commit to anything.
Lots of test rides in my future!! Thank you for your help with the carb, Justin started watching your stuff too.
@@BugzyMoto my carb information on playlist is 100% my other stuff is bicycle crap. I use to build mostly NHRA prostock motorcycle engines. Keep up the great content. Definitely enjoy you and your husband's videos.
@@BugzyMoto ruclips.net/p/PLyTjGWYBzynCsVTGTCDpJIzsz3seMRYRZ&si=2FYzs85biIbFD1Dh short cut to carb information
The model you are looking for is the Honda...
I loved renting the Rebel, now that I'm back home I'm unsure if I'd want to own one!
Bugzy I wish you had a email for your channel so I could get in touch with you. I have a 09 Harley Fat Bob that I would like to donate to your channel. I live in Pennsylvania so it would not be to far away for you and Justin to pickup.
😎Dave H
Bugzy I bet Justin was thinking 💭
“She better not drop that bike”
I’m surprised Justin didn’t follow behind you with the car😎Dave H
Whaaaat sunshine dave!! Do you feel comfortable sharing your email here and I’ll email you? 🤩
Did you get the email Bugzy?
Bugzy I sent you the email but doesn’t show up on the reply
😎Dave H
hellzzzz yeeeah dave!!!
🤘😎🤘
That popping an running rich is probably due to an intake leak. Throw on some new seals and it should be good to go
If you want an older motorcycle that is comfortable, reliable, easy to ride, easy to work on, that has nice suspension, balanced handling, smooth engine check out the BMW Airheads. I own a 1986 BMW R80. (walk around video on my yt page). The r80 is basically a cheat code for riding. It's so easy to ride. Maintenance is a easy. For example, it's just four bolts to remove the rear wheel because it's a single sided swing arm. Obviously, if you decide to buy a new bike, you have so many "safe" options! I am not a fan of the new Harleys, though.
You own a 1986 R80? It's funny since I almost got the 1986 R80RT back then but was torn between that or the K75s. The dealer asked if I would break lanes in the rush hour traffic on my way to work and I said I didn't so he told me to get the water cooled vs the air cooled engine so bought the K75s. (bought it at Dunbars in Brockton)
Wait, people in Massachusetts use their directional? :D
when they're not beepin the hohn 🤣
Some of us do! haha
No.. we don't use "directionals". We use "blinkahs".
😅😅😅
Try the Rebel 1100. I know a lady that wanted a Hardley but decided to buy an Rebel 1100 and she loves it. She got some new exhausts on it and the first few times we pulled up at the lights I was looking for a Harley. That's a 70s made Harley. That's when they were bought out by AMF (the bowling ball company) and the quality went out the window. Time to go bike shopping🎆🎆👍👍👍. Stick with Japanese quality as you will get a much better bike for a lot less money.
Why don't you just get a Rebel? You wicked liked it. The Harley thing is powerful I know but they're not the only bikes out there. I myself ride an Indian 1100cc Scout Bobber (1133cc if you wanna split hairs). American made if that's important to you. I love it. Indian made smaller Scouts too before the '25's. Personally (note I said 'personally') I think this obsession some folks have w/Harley's is misplaced. But hey, if you're into a Harley you're into a Harley.
I think the weight of the bike is important to you. According to google, your 1983 XS650 weighs 408lbs, 2020 Honda Rebel 500 weighs 408lbs also, the 2009 Suzuki S50 weighs 443, the 2009 Harley 883 weighs 556lbs. Once the bike is going, weight is almost a non-issue but in slow manuvers and in a parking lot you may want a lighter bike. Just a thought.
I think you’d be better off with a Japanese 4 cylinder. Something made this century. Bigger tank, more cruising range, more reliable. Something mid sized, 500 - 650, plenty of power for someone your size. Fuel injection, no carbs to mess with. You can probably find one at a reasonable price.
I think some of the older Suzuki Intruders like the vs800 (not the VL) have a chopper looking vibe, that with a little work it really would look cool. (I looked back to 2009 and they called it S50 then) (Personally I even like the looks of the Suzuki 650 (Savage or S40) thumper, but it may be too small for her.
BTW,,,there are 2 Suzuki s50s (2008 and 2009) on craigslist, one in Providence and one in Middleboro both under $3K (and probably can be talked down more)
An inline-4 is completely off the mark for Bugzy if she basically likes the growling XS650, enjoyed riding the Rebel, and - especially - that she likes Sportsters.
yesss! this is exciting, thank you for your insights here! & thanks so much for watching 🌹
@@BugzyMoto I think the Suzuki S50 would suit your needs perfectly and be budget friendly too. Not sure how many aftermarket custom parts available for it though. If you want custom parts, best to get a Harley (although I swear those parts double in price as soon as the name Harley is mentioned.) (BTW...on craigslist, Todd's in Bellingham has a 2009 883 advertised for $3900. I would think you could test ride it there.) (BTW...looking at the specs, the S50 is much lighter than the 883....The 883 is 100lbs heavier.)
Before your bike becomes old news, please tell the story of the build. IMO, I'd put my $ into making the XS into more of a reliable daily driver because it's a one-off.
I'll make that viddy soon, promise! I dont ever want my bike to be old news 💔 but, I do know what you're saying!
The 1995 Sportster 883 should be OK, since it has the newer style engine and I believe 5 speeds and a belt drive. (the Hugger has a lower seat height.) (I had a 1979 Sportster XLS and would always foul out plugs and run on one cyl. At times your's almost sounded like that.)
I'm going to try and test ride a 883! Stay tuned:)
Try a 2010 or newer sportster. Try a Moto Guzzi V7. There is a great dealer in Connecticut.
wow, officially obsessed with Moto Guzzis now (+ I'm Italian)!!! I need to test ride one, looks like a trip to CT is in the future:)
Bottle opener?
old CocaCola bottle opener we found during the original build
that carb is messed up. Thats not normal.
I've got a much newer Sportster Iron 883 for sale up on the North shore if you're interested
and no, not all sportsters are this hard to ride. The one I have is a 2019, fuel injected and run like a champ lol
Love to hear that 😅 and can you share a link to your 883 thats for sale?
what is that an ironhead? ironhead and reliable shouldn't be in the same sentence. i love them though lol to me there so nostalgic awesome bikes, they just rattle bolts out lol
i commented at the start of the video lol...ironhead
Hahaha it’s a love/hate thing, right?
That HD would make a great boat anchor. ⚓
haha damnn! I am proud of it, built by hand and it's something I'll always love -- plus it absolutely hauls ass 🫡
hahaha you're brutal Mr. Eric! 🚢💨
Bugzy I sent a few emails to that address you provided. I haven’t got any response yet
😎Dave H
Got the emails! We’re talking logistics and definitely interested, dave you’re awesome.
Great Bugzy glad to know you got the emails 😎Dave H
You want a reliable bike so you are considering an HD?
There's nothing particularly unreliable about an HD except for a period in the 70s when they were owned by a bowling ball company. I've had several, among other makes, and have never had any issues or breakdowns. Do you have any personal anecdotes to share, or are you just parroting what someone told you ?
sometimes my sporty feels like a bowling ball cruisin down the road 🤣
@@Libertyskin Yup, My 1979 Sporty was an AMF made one. It had the "mark your spot" option to always know where you parked (or as we say up here paaaaaked :-))
@@justinmantell
🤘😂🤘
1200 sportster is way better for you. No not all Sportsters clutches are hard. Newer is better.
I rode a newer 883 sporty this summer and loved it!! Made a few videos on it, check them out!
A newer sportster is way better and reliable.
honda 10 times better then harley
I feel like alotta people agree with that. Check out the videos from when I rented a Honda Rebel and fell in love 😻
Sporty is a horrible decision. Do yourself a favor and go test ride an Indian scout or the super chief. Also, an often overlooked but amazing bike based on watching your videos would be the triumph speedmaster. Moms in Foxboro will let you test ride them.
oh Moms!! That's a great idea:) thank you
@@BugzyMoto I'm actually heading to Moms tomorrow morning for a warranty repair on my kickstand. Should be a quick fix tho. If you go in for a test ride.. ask for Eric. He was awesome when I purchased my Indian Chieftain.
I like the Indian Scout. If I were to buy a cruiser that be my choice. In the triumph line up, the Speed twin 900 would be a better option. Best sounding stock exhaust I've ever heard.
get yourself a 2007 or up Sportster....EFI model, these are awesome and hopefully you'll love it! Low maintenance, lots of options for bars, pegs, seats....everything else...and VERY reliable. I had a '75 Ironhead, kick start only...for along time....bought an '09, 1200cc Nightster and I love it even MORE than the Iron....didnt think that would be possible!
eye say any 1990,s sp0rty.
✌
I'd love to have a bunch of options for mods. Thats why sportys/rebels popular bikes like that are so interesting to me, I want to really make my next bike my own like we did with the XS650. Pretty badass you had a kickstart only nightster 💪💪💪 Thanks for watching!
@@BugzyMoto I was watching a youtube video the other day (believe it was Fortnine) and it said you can't have a kickstart with an EFI bike. Maybe you can figure out how to do it and be the first. 🙂