Harley Sportster 883 Custom

[New GZ250]

Well, did the test ride thing, brand new bike off the showroom floor. Here are some of my observations after a 15 minute ride: (I rode a 883 Low)

The HD was quieter than I thought it would be
The HD is more comfortable for my 6 foot stature
The HD seat is more comfortable
The ride was softer, which I liked and enjoyed. (Not as harsh)
The HD screams quality, the GZ screams this is an introductory bike in to bikes
The HD was about 250 lbs heavier, took some getting used to.
Think the GZ would be a lot better on the real curvy roads many of the roads I ride are limited to 25MPH or less.
Great on the freeway with the extra torque I didn't feel like I was pushing the bike or holding on for my dear life.
Paints seem to be brighter and shinier and of better quality.

The HD vibrates a lot at idle, which I kinda liked, reminded me what I was riding. The idle smoothes of upon acceleration and at about 65 you begin to feel it coming back in the handlebars, nothing much but there. I do find the GZ is smoother and has a lot less vibration.

The out the door price is $8,900.00 for a new 2009 HD, extras/options were color, California emissions and HD security system.

Yes, I'm comparing apples to oranges but wanted to report back to all.

Overall it was a lot of fun and the salesman was super no pressure, next week maybe I will test drive a Sportster 1200 Low, the 883 had plenty of get up and go!

Yes, this would be perfect for me, when I wanted to play Harley, wish the GZ had a bit more power but for the money it's hard to beat. Maybe I will have that extra bike in my garage one day? The wife said yes to the HD, but I'm going to put more thought in to the whole idea.