think i am going to agree with most others.. 04 and up..

 

Quickest best handling sportsters are the Sportster Sports. Stopped making them after 03. I have an 02 and it is very quick.

 

I had ridden a new '92 1200 model. I really liked the concept but it was a little rough to suit me. When they came out with the '04, I jumped in. I enjoy tinkering with it and love riding it. But I'll have to admit, if they were to bring the XR1200 stateside, I'd probably trade in for one.

 

It might be an easier question to ask what Sportsters you should avoid. Some older models, I'm thinking of a few key Ironhead years, are hard to find parts for.

I suppose you could compare rigid to rubber mounts but the newer models are young enough to still be in good shape, plenty powerful, and affordable. And they don't have near the vibration under normal riding.

 

I like my 03, but finding parts is a biatch. Everything is 04 and up. The difference between the 2 makes it hard to find stuff like aftermarket seats, tanks etc...

 

06! Bugs worked out on the new(rubbermount model) changesandthe last yearwith a carb.

 

57-64, If I like the 06 half as much as the 64 I'll be happy

 

Thats mine,,love it, didn't like the pre 04's as the vibes got ugly to me when I went for power above 4,000 rpm.
The EFI is responsive, the "Dogbone" Sporty can hang on the Interstate.
Rubber mount rocks !

 

Only one I have had is the 99 I still have. S&S carb, big tank (Fat Bob?), speedo moved to center console, Mustang seat, all these mods were done by my late Father. Bike is dependable, not cold natured whatsoever (Damifino why, but once it fires, it is ready to go!).

Mine is in the paint shop, but it has been raining for a few days, so I hope that is why it isn't ready yet. Can't wait to put her back together!

The bike is what you make of it. Too many mods are available, so personalize the hell out of your bike, whatever you buy. Cheers!

 

I ride an 07 1200 Custom with the forwards and fat tank. I'm sold on it. Get one of these and bob the fender.