Harley Davidson Sportster 883 Custom or Kawasaki Vulcan 900?

  • Thread starter Thread starter JetDoc
  • Start date Start date
J

JetDoc

Guest
Most people consider the Sportster 883 as underpowered and slow, but you can buy engine mod kits to upgrade it to 1200cc and more power. Other than that, both bikes will provide adequate highway speeds, and good fuel economy. There are plenty of aftermarket accessories available for both bikes. The main difference is the price you would pay, as anything with the Harley-Davidson brand comes with a premium price tag...
 
will the power difference be real noticeable
will i be able to buy an aftermarket windshield and saddle bag for the Harley
i won't be in heavy traffic much at all if any so i don't think the liquid verse air cooling will make much difference
will they both cruise good on the highway
will they get around around the same MPG

thanks
 
You'll be happier with the Kaw. Liquid vs air cooled is always an issue, Liquid is more dependable and loner lived.
The 883 attracts mechanical trouble, has too short a wheel base and too tall a seat and too heavy to handle well.
 
I had an '05 883 standard Sportster. As an 883 it was a fun bike. It had plenty of power around town, and wasn't working too hard at highway speeds either. '04 and later Sportsters have an engine isolating system that lets the engine vibrate all it wants at idle, but it really smooths out at highway speeds. I found the bike more comfortable than my Roadking, but that is just because I like the pegs under me like on a standard style bike. The custom has forward controls, so that isn't going to be the same for you.

When I first got my 883, it got around 55 or more MPG. After a year, I upgraded power with a 1200 kit, SE air cleaner, ignition, Dynojet, and SE exhaust. It was everything I liked about the 883, but with a lot more power.

As far as handling goes, it isn't a sport bike by any stretch of the imagination, but it could keep up with my sport bike riding friends when the roads were tight and twisty. When things opened up, they just left me in the dust though. As far as Big Twins go, there wasn't a stock one that could keep up with the 1200.

I love the way the standard Sportster looks. It traces its roots directly back to 1957. Plus, there are TONS of aftermarket parts for them. Bags and windshield are just the start. (Though I hate riding behind a shield.)

I am not going to say anything bad about the Kawasaki. My friend rides a Vucan Nomad and it is an outstanding machine. My first ride was a Kawasaki LTD440. It was a great first bike.

I just hought I would share my positive experience with my Sportster. Most people who trash talk them haven't ridden a modern one. They are so different than my old ironhead, it isn't even funny.

The 883 Custom is a nice looking bike, but to me the most outstanding deal is an '04 or later 1200 Roadster.
 
Back
Top