2018 Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom (XL1200C)│Test Ride and Full Review

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  • čas přidán 24. 05. 2018
  • A detailed look at the 2018 Model Year 1200 Custom Sportster. The 1200 Custom has been a Staple in the H-D Lineup since 1996 and is still going strong. Get the information on how this model compares to the other Sportsters and if this bike is a fit for you. If you're thinking about purchasing this bike for any other Sportster, this video could answer the questions you have.
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Komentáře • 393

  • @michaelkitchen9594
    @michaelkitchen9594 Před 6 lety +12

    You did an excellent job with an honest analogy of the Harley 1200 custom Sportster. Most Harley reviewers do not get in-depth as to customer specifics and particular needs. I'm so glad you did!

  • @Biglug8888
    @Biglug8888 Před 5 lety +17

    The 1200c has always been my favorite. Thanks for the info.

  • @bobby3849
    @bobby3849 Před 6 lety +3

    1200XL Was my first bike 15 years ago. Now riding a touring bike. CVO Road King love it. Those 1200 sportster still my favorite bike for short rides and around town since I’m a small guy. Thanks Matt. Really like your videos and your honest inputs. Have a safe ride. Bobby

  • @bluesriderDF
    @bluesriderDF Před 6 lety +47

    Xl1200C was my first bike, I did 25K miles in 3 years. What a great bike!! On a Dyna Low Rider now.

    • @MattLaidlaw
      @MattLaidlaw  Před 6 lety +4

      HD Motovlog nice man. That’s some good miles.

    • @disht2
      @disht2 Před 6 lety +3

      Matt Laidlaw my first as well! Just got it two days ago and have put 250 miles on it. Its a blast.

    • @killaco23
      @killaco23 Před 6 lety +1

      Me too! Had my low rider now a year and already 12,000 miles.

    • @killaco23
      @killaco23 Před 6 lety

      Jim Piver ??? Compared to what? I don't feel like mine is too slow. Like C6 Corvette speed. Plenty for me.

    • @Joseph-wh5of
      @Joseph-wh5of Před 5 lety

      Did you have to do any major maintenance to bike I recently just purchased one whit about five thousand miles on it. I changed all the oils from the fork all the way to the primary got new tires, but should I be looking for something to fail?

  • @priestof1
    @priestof1 Před 5 lety +52

    I have a 2012 sportster. Ride it daily, cold rain, snow, bellow zero, and blistering heat. I have had it in deep flooded streets, have rode it at a snails pace in heavy traffic plus trying to stay up at a light without using a foot, have rode aggressively and lazy. This motorcycle is amazing and as tough as a tank. The tires seem to have a short life span and oil changes are expensive. That s the only down side with it. I ride it on long trips (try to get lost long) and daily commute. this bike is the best if your a 6ft guy with a stocky build. It has a hell of a punch to get you out of a jam but kind of odd doing a passenger. If you anticipate a regular passenger get something bigger or if she is small a sissy bar. A bigger bike would be the best way to go though. If it's only you, your commuting to work a lot an around town type of thing, even lengthy trips, and your pushing 6ft well buddy you just hit the jack pot.

    • @YasselAlvarez33157
      @YasselAlvarez33157 Před 5 lety +5

      priestof1 I'm 5'8 and fit well on it

    • @jpb1231000
      @jpb1231000 Před 4 lety +1

      I weigh 300??

    • @camhester4251
      @camhester4251 Před 4 lety +2

      the tire wear is from taking off hard , it's a powerhouse threw the gears , I have a 96 1200 costume with SS carb , single fire coil and crane cam ignition and it's fast so that's why the tire doesn't last

    • @priestof1
      @priestof1 Před 4 lety

      @@jpb1231000 your good - take one for a spin.

    • @priestof1
      @priestof1 Před 4 lety +2

      @@camhester4251 sounds likens great bike. Mine is still hammering down the roads.
      Ride safe!

  • @hanleydaleson954
    @hanleydaleson954 Před 6 lety +10

    Really digging the ‘18 sportys

  • @daoudmh1
    @daoudmh1 Před 5 lety +19

    Matt, you are hands down the best motorcycle reviewer on CZcams. Great production value, awesome voiceovers and tons of information. Please keep doing this!

    • @whitespider8523
      @whitespider8523 Před 4 lety

      Agree with all you say Mark, living in the UK I tend to watch at UK reviewers, but this the best reviewer I've listened to on You Tube. Really like this bike.

  • @danielval3359
    @danielval3359 Před 5 lety

    Been riding this bike for 4months now, very clean and aggressive riding and it’s all stock still!

  • @ruforus2
    @ruforus2 Před 6 lety +2

    In-depth analysis at his best.

  • @HunterWolfgang
    @HunterWolfgang Před 6 lety

    Nice to meet you today, my family and I enjoyed the store and made out with some good stuff!

  • @dred311
    @dred311 Před 4 lety +3

    One of the nicest looking stock sportsters I've seen in a while.

  • @miguelclaire5196
    @miguelclaire5196 Před 6 lety

    I have this 1200 in the flat grey. Love it. Really gets it on the speed.

  • @tjhessmon4327
    @tjhessmon4327 Před 2 lety +1

    I have to admit I was a "Hands off" Harley guy for decades... Until recently... When I purchased an XL1200C.. That was an eye opener for me. Many reviewers trash the Sportster, however after owning one, and after owning its metric cruiser rivals, my opinion is, its far and away a much better machine than any of the metric cruisers I have owned over time (about 8 in all), in engines ranging from 650cc to 1600cc.
    The sportster is lighter and easier to maneuver about, when compared to the heavy cruisers I have owned. Its not just a beginners bike or a "Girls" bike as some proclaim, with Its power to weight ratio (0.124 for the 1200), its a fun machine to ride in any situation. For my riding style, it handles well and has very good brakes. The seating position is comfortable, and I am coming to grips with the handlebar position, I initially thought to be too short. The only modification I might consider down the road is the change from foreword controls to mid controls, if I find myself riding it more aggressively.

  • @thejerseyj1636
    @thejerseyj1636 Před 5 lety +1

    I have been seriously looking at Sportsters since I road my friends Iron 883 two weeks ago. I'm 6'3" 175 lbs. and was shocked to find that with the forward controls I fit great.
    I'm also a kook about motorcycling. If I'm not riding, then in my spare time, I'm watching videos about them. So, I must have seen a thousand in the past several years.
    However, nobody (and there are some good ones out there.) "Captain Rambunctious", "The Missenden Flyer", "SRK Cycles and "Blockhead" to name a few. Nobody does a better job than you Matt.
    Thank you for your efforts.

  • @EJnVA
    @EJnVA Před 5 lety +1

    The tone of that engine is hypnotizing. Wow.

  • @northrider8628
    @northrider8628 Před 6 lety +13

    The 1200 custom is a great all around bike, I would say it is a UAM universal American motorcycle. Good video, glad you take the time you do a great job.

    • @MattLaidlaw
      @MattLaidlaw  Před 6 lety +1

      Northrider Thank you!

    • @starmanskye
      @starmanskye Před 5 lety

      Maybe 2nd, I think the Buell 06-09 XB12x Ulysses are/were the best all-around UAM machine, with tens of thousands ridden on the roads and backwoods, and lovingly taken care-of by tjheir lucky owners who love 'em..
      On interstates pacing traffic, patched asphalt hiways, backroads and byways, canyons, dirt & gravel roads, urban-assault streetfighting, sport-biking, adventuring, donkey tracks and hardscrabble fields ~ are what the race-TT/motocross legacy-inspired Ulys were made for,
      ~ with their short-WB, wide front-tires, front perimeter-rotor/6 piston calipers, low center-of-gravity, lightweight (100 lbs less than a sporty), aluminum hollow-beam frame/fuel tanks & oiltank-swingarms, higher performance hp/torque (~105/87 nm), tight-rake and adjustable dampening/extended suspension travel (6.9"), small cowl/windscreen, upright seating-position, underslung muffler, pannier bags, folding rear-passenger backrest/luggage rack, etc.
      HD sure screwed the pooch when they bought-out buell, sucked em dry and then let them wither-and-die. The head beancounter didn't even ride bikes ~ the 07-08 financial 'crisis' gave HD an excuse to cut their own 'competition'. Since then, they've been imitating themselves, only half-heartedly supporting innovation, while dragging their feet on novel product design and expanding new-model market appeal.
      BTW: Here's what some one-off custom builders are doing to further refine the basic buell machines into the 21st century and beyond: Buell Customs
      czcams.com/video/4CrfRSKtgnQ/video.html
      I think Erik Buell would be delighted.
      But hey, its all good. Erik and EBR are still slowly cranking out ever-new, truly revolutionary world-class bikes.
      Cheers, ride safe!

  • @love4boost
    @love4boost Před 5 lety

    The superlow also has a 4.5 gallon tank. It was my first bike. Already came with some mini apes so it was comfortable to ride and learn on. Fit right in my budget at the time. Now 4 years and 4 Harley’s later (one meeting it’s early demise thanks to a lady blowing a stop sign) I’m on a 2018 street glide special. But I’ll always remember the sporty that started my addiction.

  • @nileshpathak6838
    @nileshpathak6838 Před 4 lety +2

    A detailed and thorough review. Good quality video and audio. Thank you!!

  • @erikross2432
    @erikross2432 Před 5 lety

    My first Harley 1200 custom, thanks to you.

  • @parkersgarage4216
    @parkersgarage4216 Před 3 lety +1

    I’m 5’9 150 so not a big guy at all. I stopped by the local Harley deal who only had iron 883’s. First question the guy asked me was what kind of riding am I gonna be doing. Told him mostly around town w the occasional longest trip being 100 miles. I also told him this will be my first real bike. He recommended the 1200 sportster to me. I decided to look on marketplace for the heck of it. I found a black 2010 1200 custom w 8” black bars 7k miles on it. I went and looked at it yesterday and fell in love w it. I rode it 92 miles home and loved every mile. Crazy thing is he bought it last year for 8500. I bought it off him for 3800 and I couldn’t be happier. I did research and liked the bigger gas tank on the custom and SuperLow. The bike fits me perfect w forward controls on it. I didn’t think I’d like the 8” bars but I realized real quick they are really comfortable. The salesman had me sit on that new basic black bike. I realized then I liked the taller bars. He told me he liked the taller bars too.

  • @donniebraham6156
    @donniebraham6156 Před rokem

    Just got a 2014 sportster custom 1200. Love it. ABS,and key fob.

  • @EJnVA
    @EJnVA Před 5 lety +4

    Hey, that camera is amazing, btw. And, the voice-over is very well done! Great production work!

    • @MattLaidlaw
      @MattLaidlaw  Před 5 lety

      Thank you !

    • @WHOHATESTOWORK
      @WHOHATESTOWORK Před 4 lety

      Bro i just seen this your exact same comment on a Blockhead video lmao

    • @Andy-px1mj
      @Andy-px1mj Před 4 lety

      New Zealand maybe he loves them both. Check if he has put the same on John Maxwells review haha.

  • @lrob1420
    @lrob1420 Před 3 lety

    Have not ridden in over 30 years. Great video. Got my 1st ever HD. A 2014 XL1200C only 3900 km. I am positively thrilled. Came lowered so at 5’7” I can flat foot. Came with black bar, black clock, black mirrors and roadster black exhaust otherwise all chrome. Came with ABS, HD leather bag LH, HD solo seat. All for less than 6300 USD. The 1st owner barely road it yet made so many superficial mods. I’m in luv.

    • @feloniousmonk3049
      @feloniousmonk3049 Před 8 měsíci

      Probably a bike that had the odometer spun back. These bikes get ridden, a lot.

  • @baddriver3580
    @baddriver3580 Před 6 lety +6

    Great review, hope HD doesn’t delete the Sportys! Great bikes!

    • @MattLaidlaw
      @MattLaidlaw  Před 6 lety +3

      Thank you. I think the Sportys will stick around. Maybe just change a bit

  • @MrSupersonic2012
    @MrSupersonic2012 Před 5 lety +10

    Like the look of this bike. Never riden a motorcycle before, but I am thinking of getting my license and getting a Harley. Definitely considering a Sportster.

    • @jpb1231000
      @jpb1231000 Před 4 lety +1

      Better hurry!!! harley axed their Sportster fleet by 60%!!!

    • @Spacejunk57
      @Spacejunk57 Před 4 lety

      You won't be sorry, fun bike to own and ride and so cool looking.

  • @emac417
    @emac417 Před 6 lety

    Beautiful bike! Thanks for the review! 👍

  • @darkoflight4938
    @darkoflight4938 Před 6 lety +1

    A great video as usual, this just never gets old! This IS the DEFINITIVE HD channel!
    I have a friend who has a few years old XL Sportster and when he showed me the bike he just said: "Oh... it´s just a Sportster". "just a Sportster"??? Ain´t nothing "just a" about Sportsters. They are the backbone to all the models in a way and deserves a better treatment. Great coverage about the custom program history as well. This bike looks so sleek with that larger fuel tank. A sort of Lowrider of the Sportsters.
    Keep em´coming sir!

    • @MattLaidlaw
      @MattLaidlaw  Před 6 lety

      Dark Of Light thank you! I always appreciate your comments and support!

    • @haydonhigdon7784
      @haydonhigdon7784 Před 5 lety

      Piglet in the land of the Hogs

  • @dennism103
    @dennism103 Před 5 lety

    Excellent commentary matt

  • @slyguyaction
    @slyguyaction Před 6 lety +1

    Great review Matt. Super honest. Thanks!

  • @143alday9
    @143alday9 Před 3 lety

    Great information... I'm going to be taking the Harley Davidson class to learn to ride... I have my heart set on a 2010 1200 custom but I think after
    watching this video im sold on getting this model...

  • @robertbrunston5406
    @robertbrunston5406 Před 5 lety

    Very good! Thank you Matt.

  • @626STAH
    @626STAH Před 6 lety +3

    Once again, great video. Very informative and knowledgeable. If I want a new Motorcycle or want to trade in my 2018 Street Rod 750, I want my next Harley to be from Laidlaw Harley-Davidson.

    • @GianlucaSeno
      @GianlucaSeno Před 5 lety

      I'd sold my Streed Rod last saturday and this saturday I'll go to take my 1200 Custom Industrial Gray :P

  • @jimmansi1187
    @jimmansi1187 Před 6 lety +1

    Matt, I'm 55 & ride a 1995 1200 & love it but I'm thinking about looking at some of the Softails for the all day rides or trips. I'm gonna keep my old Sporty & I really enjoyed your comments on Sportsters, they are awesome bikes. I'm gonna go with the one that's most comfy, I'll know it when I ride it, can't wait to test ride em

  • @chrisphilhower6029
    @chrisphilhower6029 Před 6 lety +1

    Hey Matt. I've had my 18 1200C for 3 months now. Unfortunately, The weather has been Lousy here in NJ. Lots of Rain. Have about 650 miles on mine. Color is Black Tempest. I wish our Lord would have mounted the Rear Turn Signals behind the plate like on the 1200T. Took my dealer almost 4 hours to install. And at least one call to Tech Support. Once I can afford the Locking Bags and Windshield, Going to have lots of fun. Took the stock mufflers off. Installed a set of FireBrand Loose Cannons and an Arlen Ness Stage 1. Bevel Cut with Stainless filter. V&H FP3. And really annoy the neighbors. Mine was the 1st one to show up at my dealer. Bought it the next day. You're Right about the Sportster being good for "Vertically Challenged" people. Being 5'4" and about 150 pounds, I can fit on almost all of the Sportsters. Except for the Roadster. The Forward Controls are too much of a problem with the short frame. I like the look of the 48. Just not Practical.

  • @XenaTheQuadCamBikah
    @XenaTheQuadCamBikah Před 5 lety

    Love my 2004 carbureted Sportster and your analogy about choosing a bike/woman. Xena from the XL Forum said that.

  • @oscar87171
    @oscar87171 Před 5 lety

    I am researching which bike I am going to buy. I enjoy your straight forward honest and knowledgeable comments. I am deciding Low Rider or 1200 Custom. Thank you!!

  • @tedwitus
    @tedwitus Před 6 lety +1

    Hey Matt, thanks for another great review, and a specific model i'd been looking forward to! Can you tell me which of the Softails have mid-controls?

  • @jonathantedesco5351
    @jonathantedesco5351 Před 4 lety

    Right on brother!! I got 2018 /48spotster and its great!!!!

  • @jameskoskinen6763
    @jameskoskinen6763 Před 4 lety

    Hey man, you did a great job with this video

  • @bobsyeruncle4841
    @bobsyeruncle4841 Před 3 lety

    expert reviewer best i ever heard on Harley D

  • @brandoncook1123
    @brandoncook1123 Před 4 lety

    I’ve been using 1200 lows since I’m not the tallest and it comes with the tank and function in a perfect combo. Especially for commute. I had too many import motorcycles with short engine life’s with less support if not discontinued. Sportsters have existed so long it’s just dependable

    • @brandoncook1123
      @brandoncook1123 Před 4 lety

      Currently use a 2006 1200 low with some mods. I went to Mother Road in Kingman looking for a commute ride. Then saw a used sporty. It was a carbed 2006. Prior owners put lots of mods. Moved to front pegs even leather saddle bags. 20k miles. Was a match made in heaven. Love that balanced evolution. Such a tried and true motor

  • @boomerguy9935
    @boomerguy9935 Před 4 lety

    My Sportster XL883 has 8000 miles on the tires and won't need replacing for another 2000 miles (estimated). I've usually experienced 5000 miles limit on the rear and 10,000 miles on the front on all of my past bikes, so I can't complain with this one. My oil changes are not expensive because I do them (motor and primary) myself and I use premium full synthetic and premium oil filters. No negatives there. Also, my 2005 has no leaks or drips and has never burned oil. Fantastic, reliable and easy to maintain bike. It has a carb which has never needed to be adjusted. The Sportster is the most reliable Harley ever made in either the 883 or 1200 Evo engine.

  • @donsvideos1985
    @donsvideos1985 Před 6 lety +1

    Those hose clamps they used to hold the exhaust heat shields on could have been done better! btw back in the day the touring Sportster was called the Roadster. That was a pretty good machine. I wish I could have bought one. I stuck with my 76 XLH.. BTW that was probably overall the most reliable Harley I have had based on the maintenance I could do and the total cost.. Great memories of that bike and times! Road it all over with no more than 20 bucks in my pocket no cell phone or even a credit card. I was in the Navy and rode it all over the East coast and Gulf Coast.

  • @robertlumsden1579
    @robertlumsden1579 Před 5 lety +1

    I like your reviews. :)

  • @scottwilloughby3840
    @scottwilloughby3840 Před 6 lety

    great video very well done

  • @tausha46
    @tausha46 Před 5 lety

    THANKS GREAT REVIEW

  • @MrChancebozey
    @MrChancebozey Před 6 lety +20

    The Superlow has the 4.5 gallon tank also. The Superlow being the least expensive of all the Sportsters. It is my choice for the best bang for your buck.

    • @MattLaidlaw
      @MattLaidlaw  Před 6 lety +7

      You’re right man, I over-looked the gas tank on that bike.

    • @coyote102076
      @coyote102076 Před 6 lety +4

      Jim: Yep, but even a "slow" 883 will leave almost every car in the dust leaving the stoplights running through town. hahahaha!

    • @coyote102076
      @coyote102076 Před 6 lety +1

      Jim...…….. indeed "almost"...……..hahahaha! MOST cars are just your run of the mill normal everyday family or economy cars. Then you have those like my wife's built and dyno tested 400 RWHP Mustang. hahahaha!

    • @crazyeyeslim
      @crazyeyeslim Před 5 lety +3

      @@coyote102076 at least your wife has a cool car...

    • @coyote102076
      @coyote102076 Před 5 lety +3

      Jason Agan yup! And...…….. now 2 months later after 18 years is no longer my wife. Go figure. lol Life is funny like that.

  • @adibee88
    @adibee88 Před 6 lety

    That was a great video and I'm glad you covered the build program, 1200 features, and provided historical information as well. Great job Matt and I always look forward to seeing your videos! 😆👍🏽

    • @MattLaidlaw
      @MattLaidlaw  Před 6 lety

      adibee88 thank you!

    • @Jeevish-ks6ts
      @Jeevish-ks6ts Před 6 lety

      Matt!! which sportster bike is best in the sportster family

  • @thunder8cat
    @thunder8cat Před 6 lety

    Love this bike. Looks great. I have a 2010, but I really like he fat front tire look. I think my tank is only 3.5 gal. Looking to get my budget in order to move up (have to talk The General into it though). :) great video Matt.

  • @arjun10069
    @arjun10069 Před 5 lety

    Hi Matt.. two things I would like you to help with..
    1) at 6’ do you think if I install forward controls it would be helpful.?
    2) is the ground clearance at 105mm a problem with speed breakers or off roading experience.??

  • @georgecostanza2695
    @georgecostanza2695 Před 5 lety +1

    Actually the XL1200T SuperLow would be the "daddy" of all Sportsters. It's got everything the Custom has, including the 4.5 gallon tank and "big boy horn" PLUS adjustable rear suspension, bags, windshield, more chrome, mini floor boards, and semi forward controls. It is by far my favourite Sportster!

  • @pablobonilla973
    @pablobonilla973 Před 2 lety

    Good information. U covered a lot. Thanks

  • @DavideRice
    @DavideRice Před 6 lety

    Great video, as always! This is the first channel I use when I want to buy a new Harley-Davidson! Used it to buy my first 48, used it to buy my Breakout, used to buy my second 48 and Iron! Which gloves are you using in this video?

  • @dennism103
    @dennism103 Před 5 lety

    Those look fun and are very cool

  • @robertgroves4293
    @robertgroves4293 Před 6 lety

    A set of forward controls, air cleaner mufflers and tuner with a cam and this think would go hard. Great urban bike.

  • @DarthVader-1701
    @DarthVader-1701 Před 6 lety

    This Sportster is the choice Sportster, it has the 4.5 gallon tank and thick tires plus it has a real seat unlike the 48. Hey Matt, you have the same Sony audio recorder as I do, nice.

    • @MattLaidlaw
      @MattLaidlaw  Před 6 lety +1

      James N thank you. Great minds think alike 👍🏻

  • @PowerYacht
    @PowerYacht Před 6 lety

    I got a 2013 Custom and love the bike! I think with the mid controls they lost something in this bike considering it is called the Custom. The Superlow also features a big 4.5 gallon fuel tank. Thanks.

  • @razzrasmussen5773
    @razzrasmussen5773 Před 6 lety

    Advice on handgrips for Road King Special 2017. Having some numb hands with factory grips.

  • @inze9061
    @inze9061 Před 4 lety +1

    Hi Matt, great video! Just wondering, what’s your take between this 1200 Custom and 48. Both are fantastic bikes with similar price point, which one is better for daily use?

  • @dpaul9634
    @dpaul9634 Před 4 lety

    What a succulent , practical and useful review... True and to the point. Who doesn't agree eh? Maybe they ain't real bikers. Cheerio Matt! Great job. Tad late I maybe. Biker of 30 years. Ex HD and current Triumph Storm owner. Was checking stuff between Triumph Speed master and Custom 1200. Nice bike. Cool

  • @luispablolee77
    @luispablolee77 Před 5 lety

    If I would've found your channel before !

  • @HJ-sn5gt
    @HJ-sn5gt Před 6 lety +3

    Great Video Review Matt: Thanks! I Love the Girlfriend/Wife analogy for buying with your eyes alone; I sell and promote all Harleys but find customers budgeting more than considering their riding future. In the end, they trade up; however, Sportsters, like the XL1200C is never a bad purchase and most pure (for now) and most nimble, as you’ve demonstrated.

    • @MattLaidlaw
      @MattLaidlaw  Před 6 lety

      Thanks man. Yea, a lot of people buy a price tag and not what is the best bike for their needs.

  • @dennism103
    @dennism103 Před 4 lety

    That's a masterpiece

  • @chrisphilhower6029
    @chrisphilhower6029 Před 5 lety

    Hey Matt. I noticed that this Custom has a Chrome piece inside the headlamp. Mine came with a dark grey. That is now turning bronze. The diffuser over the bulb. Dealer claims it turned that color because of the Hogworks LED bulb I installed.

  • @thomasangelo4219
    @thomasangelo4219 Před 6 lety

    How to Shovelhead Sportster put a ton of chrome and accessories on it I still think about that bike now riding a street glide now but what a great motorcycle the Sportster

    • @deckerhand12
      @deckerhand12 Před 6 lety

      Thomas Angelo you mean he iron head sportsters.

  • @69FOSTER
    @69FOSTER Před 5 lety +1

    I've been looking at a Sportster 48 for several months, but this Sportster Custom would make more sense with the two-up riding and bigger tank, buuuut, the foot controls look to be more mid-mounted. I'd need forward controls. I like the handlebar position, which looks like the bars are closer to the rider than they are on the 48. Can the 48 handlebars be moved back toward the rider for a more upright riding position?

  • @greenmarine5
    @greenmarine5 Před 5 lety

    Really an excellent review with some great pointers and the latest changes from 04-now. I've only ever ridden the Super Sport's Rice Burners ( last 26 years) , but have recently been asked to participate in a New chapter of the VA Riders of America, So I'm quickly looking for at least a 1200 Sporty. Great Review and lot's of awesome Info. Thanks Man, you cleared allot of questions up for me. thumbs up and sub. I want a cruiser but I'm very sketchy about the sportsters, all My Harley buddies tell me, "Dude don't buy a sportster they are horrible bikes above 70 MPH" Probably going to go with a Honda VTX

  • @hellbent6344
    @hellbent6344 Před 5 lety +1

    I like the black heads with everything else chrome .

  • @dennism103
    @dennism103 Před 5 lety

    That's the best all around motorcycle imo

  • @tradmanmike3360
    @tradmanmike3360 Před 11 měsíci

    THANK YOU FOR AT LEAST STARTING IT UP! MANY VIDEOS FORGET TO DO THAT. THUMBS UP!!!

  • @jairocastillo9447
    @jairocastillo9447 Před 6 lety

    Thanks for the review Matt. You are spot on. I am a smaller frame rider and I find that my custom fits just right for me, and I understand you on the entry level thing. Where can I get that sweet HD baseball cap you had on beginning of video?

    • @MattLaidlaw
      @MattLaidlaw  Před 6 lety

      Jairo Castillo thank you! Thanks for watching. You can get that hat at any authorized Harley Dealer. They may have to order it if they don’t have it in stock

  • @pinkiewerewolf
    @pinkiewerewolf Před 6 lety

    I'd like to hear some more about the ADV use/set-up on the Sportster line. I'm in the planning stage for retirement with an Ultra and an ADV bike replacing the bikes I have had for the past decade. There has always been something in the back of my mind telling me that a Sportster would make a great 2-up Alaska bike. I really don't want to trash an Ultra on Denali or the haul road and I'm not sold on the Africa Twin, KTM or a GS. I know they are purpose built for it but I'm 5'9" and my gal is 5' even, and those bikes are tall.

  • @motofrodo
    @motofrodo Před 6 lety

    Matt, always love the shots of your spy vs spy helmet. Thanks for all the great content. Looking forward to the next HD rollout meeting to see what’s new so I can trade in that bike you sold me for the next new hotness.

  • @killaco23
    @killaco23 Před 6 lety +2

    I bought a Road Glide and regretted it I traded it after a month and got a Dyna Low Rider. I still have it and love it. Not a great idea for me to go from a Sportster to a Touring bike.

  • @chaznation79
    @chaznation79 Před 4 lety +1

    I lived in LA and for single riding through the gridlock traffic everyday, there's no better Harley than 1200 XL Custom in my opinion.
    For group riding, definitely consider a bigger bike though

  • @misterpogi1352
    @misterpogi1352 Před 5 lety +1

    I am doing 80 on my sportster at 3500 rpm. I just tested it the other day.

    • @hugoescudero8740
      @hugoescudero8740 Před 4 lety

      Thanks for helping with that...80 is a good speed to ride....70 in a highway for 300 miles ....don't speak better

  • @ABikerDude
    @ABikerDude Před 5 lety

    Cool Video!

  • @xyzyyz
    @xyzyyz Před 3 lety +1

    Allot of info thank you. I would have liked to hear more of the ride. I’m a mechanic. I need to hear the road noise, the engine sounds, the transmission sounds, etc. Let the bike do some of the talking. Like you said, this bike has already proven it self over the last 63 years.

  • @TheVivekgdesai
    @TheVivekgdesai Před 6 lety +1

    Superb

  • @Jim_Berry
    @Jim_Berry Před 6 lety

    Hi Matt, Gread video again. Even though I ride an Electra Glide and most likely won’t buy a Sportster, I like to watch the video to be informed. I’m a HD fan and I try to be a student of the business. I liked the comment about choosing a woman! Very true!

  • @nadejzz7644
    @nadejzz7644 Před rokem

    Thx for the detailed review.
    ... Rgds from Qatar

  • @victorescalante4025
    @victorescalante4025 Před 6 lety

    Hello Matt Laidlaw, greetings from México. I love you Channel, and all your videos, there are great and beautiful bikes like this Custom, i would like a review Of a Superlow 1200T,thanks for this videos and once again greetings from Mexico, Wonderful Channel

  • @scudonepercenter
    @scudonepercenter Před 3 lety

    Good video Matt. How about ...
    - Dual discs up front
    - Better rear shocks and fork inserts (compression and rebound)
    Can I do that if I had one of these?

  • @deckerhand12
    @deckerhand12 Před 6 lety

    I have the 883 custom. Mine is an 06 last year for the carb

  • @Enduromotorider
    @Enduromotorider Před 6 lety

    Hi Matt. Your reviews are simply awesome. I don't think one needs to take a test ride after watching your videos. I wanted your opinion on one thing. I have the custom 1200. Which handle bars would be better on it? Mini apes or tallboy?

    • @MattLaidlaw
      @MattLaidlaw  Před 6 lety +1

      They are about the same man. That’s kinda a personal preference. I’d probably go with the mini apes. Thanks for the good word.

  • @sa3ad
    @sa3ad Před 6 lety +5

    Just bought mine. Love it. It is my first motorcycle!!! I'm 5'7 and it is really comfy compared to other HD bikes. It has what I need. Weekend drive around the city, I didn't wanna go for a big bike cuz of the traffic and I wanna split lanes. Also occasionally I go for a 70 miles ride with my friends so it is comfortable enough. What I hate is the vibration and also the shifter is kinda clunky. I dunno if it is me or the bike but other than that I love this bike!! Awesome review btw!

    • @plainoldjason
      @plainoldjason Před 6 lety +2

      Having grown up riding dirt bikes and a KLR 650 as my first "road" bike, I was also a little shocked by how loud the shifter was when shifting from neutral into first on my 2013 Sportster 1200C.
      Then I read a review that described it as an "authoritative" shift, and now 22K miles later I'm just used to it. Call it "feedback"....you know you definitely shifted into gear! Not bad, just different. But the first time it happens you may think you just broke something! LOL

    • @magmafist
      @magmafist Před 6 lety +2

      Stopping at Red light, when the light turns Green, shift to 1st gear.. "CRANK!!" everyone around me were like "Did you break something bro?!" Hahahahaha

    • @sa3ad
      @sa3ad Před 6 lety

      Wiseman II lmao 🤣

  • @LIGHTNING351
    @LIGHTNING351 Před 6 lety

    What camera are you using? That has got to be one of the clearest videos I have seen!

  • @justamotorcycleenthusiast9800

    That 4.5 gallon tank just sold me.

    • @gagedrew1508
      @gagedrew1508 Před 5 lety +2

      DaveFrom Accounting dude that’s what I’m saying. I want the 48. Aesthetics it looks a lot better but the fuel tank is stupid small. Might be leaning towards the 1200 instead

    • @justamotorcycleenthusiast9800
      @justamotorcycleenthusiast9800 Před 5 lety +2

      @@gagedrew1508 I personally like the 72s but a 2.5 tank is just way to small!

  • @troyschmitt2296
    @troyschmitt2296 Před rokem

    Need an exhaust but yeah it's cool.Just bought a 2007 it's like brand new all chrom custom xlc evo love it..Hasn't changed a whole lot in 11years

  • @kesavagrandhi7702
    @kesavagrandhi7702 Před 5 lety

    How can I change the clevis of forward controls for 2015 XL1200C ?? Can i change only clevis so that I can fix a fish foot pegs in place of company fit footpegs ??

  • @georgecostanza2695
    @georgecostanza2695 Před 6 lety +6

    Ive told this story so many times, I might as well tell it again here. First off, I’ve been riding for over 20 years, and I still ride a Sportster. Anyways, I had only ridden sport bikes for 15 years before I got into Harley’s (and it all started with a t shirt). I got a Sportster, grew to really appreciate the brand, and then got a Street Glide. Thought I would never ride the Sportster again; and I didn’t... for the first month. After the honeymoon period ended with the Street, I end up taking the Sportster at least 8 rides out of 10. Its only worth pulling the Street Glide out of the garage, if I’m going for a LONG ride. Otherwise on my Screamin Eagle stage two 1200 Superlow, with, premium ride suspension, hard bags, windshield, and a nice set of Bluetooth earbuds, I’ve got all the range (200miles), comfort and power I want, and the lightness and ease of maneuverability I NEED in the city. Plus, the M8 will never sound as good as an Evo imho :)
    Having said all that however... the new Sport Glide is starting to look mighty tempting...

    • @MattLaidlaw
      @MattLaidlaw  Před 6 lety +2

      Nice man. It’s always cool to hear people’s stories.

    • @georgecostanza2695
      @georgecostanza2695 Před 6 lety +3

      Jim Piver I apologize in advance if I get too theoretical, but I just wanted to comment on the sound and volume of Harleys. Audible stimulus can cause immense emotional responses in humans. That is, what we hear affects how we feel. Like a song that reminds you of a particular event, and recalls how you felt during that time. Or one that makes you feel like dancing. But, that sound doesn’t have to be a complex combination of lyrics, melodies, and harmony’s. For example, the simple hum from a dentist’s drill causes many people’s knees to go weak... I know that from experience:) Which finally brings us to Harley’s. What’s the big deal with the famous, infamous to some, “potatoe, potatoe”? Rather than a regular, evenly paced beat, Harley’s exhaust note is more like two beats and then a pause, two beats then a pause, and so on. So what, we’ve all known that for eons. But, what most people don’t know, or have given any thought to, is what else in our lives beats to the same rhythm. It is in fact one of the most important things in life... the human heart. That is why so many people are drawn to the sound of Harleys; it’s the rhythm of life and the attraction is innate. And what do you do with a sound you like? The same thing you do when your favourite song comes on the radio... you turn it up!!

    • @georgecostanza2695
      @georgecostanza2695 Před 6 lety

      Matt Laidlaw have you ever come across that theory?

    • @TheSkyhighmusic
      @TheSkyhighmusic Před 5 lety

      George Costanza well said!! 👏

  • @dungbeetlemovies
    @dungbeetlemovies Před 5 lety

    Great video, thanks. :) Can anyone tell me which make the slash cut exhaust mufflers are at 7:06 ? Thanks.

  • @hoodiepapa7344
    @hoodiepapa7344 Před 4 lety

    I really like the look of thisbike. If I was 5'10" I might get it. Being 6'2" 300lbs I am pretty much stuck with a touring chasis. I have yet to buy my first Harley.

  • @coyote102076
    @coyote102076 Před 6 lety

    wow, that exhaust actually sounds fairly decent for a change for a *factory* exhaust!
    My 1st Harley was a 2005 XL1200C. Dang I miss that ol gal. Very lightweight, FAST after the mods, and most important of all, it was FUN to ride! I think I need another one someday soon!

  • @aujun2089
    @aujun2089 Před 5 lety

    Now Harley have a factory in Thailand and many models are cheaper. I always aim this baby and I will surely go for it.

  • @filmcostar
    @filmcostar Před 6 lety

    excellent

  • @rudigerbraun9103
    @rudigerbraun9103 Před 4 lety

    Good review, thanks for that. I'm looking for a new bike. In this days no other builder than HD has the bikes i like in the showroom. On our trip in california i rent a 2019 Road King for several days and it is a fine bike but way too heavy. I live in Germany (Black Forest) with more small and curvy streets, so i think a Sporty will fit better. Now the question is, will the Custom fit more than the Superlow especially around the corners. What's about the passenger, on 8 of 10 rides my wife sits on the back, she is small and i'm also not the biggest guy in town, will the Sporty fit anyway?

  • @Ugedey80
    @Ugedey80 Před 5 lety

    On this specific bike is it possible to set front pegs??

  • @thomasangelo4219
    @thomasangelo4219 Před 6 lety

    Excuse me had thanks for the video Matt take care

  • @Stevel_
    @Stevel_ Před 2 lety

    Fantastic review! To each their own on the styling, I like this one best personally. It has a very sophisticated look like an American Triumph Bonneville, the bike the Sportster was originally created to compete against. What do you think is the tallest height person that would fit in this bike?