Harley-Davidson Sportster XL883, aka Iron 883, has been listed as the best of 5 starter cruisers for riders new to cruisers. Other bikes in the group include Indian Scout Sixty, Yamaha Bolt, Kawasaki Vulcan S and Honda Rebel.
The Iron 883 is the top choice when starting down the Harley path. Harley-Davidson’s Sportster range is the entry model and has been around for decades and remains near the top of the MoCo’s best-seller list. The Iron has a low solo saddle, drag handlebars, chopped rear fender and a punchy, fuel-injected 883cc V-twin. It starts and goes like no 1960s Harley-Davidson could ever dream of.
But as a first time cruiser you’re going to have to get used to its awkwardness in slow turns or parking lot maneuvers. It’s also not that light – coming in at 260 kg – but despite all that it goes well and is pretty sprightly. The aftermarket also offers a huge range of cosmetic and technical upgrades you can make.
Randle McMurphy, RideApart
