Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
A CAST IRON STARTER FOR HARLEY NEWBIES
I’ll confess straight away I have a soft spot for Harleydavidson’s Sportsters and, in particular, the Iron 883.
Years ago, the 883 was the first bike I reviewed for the Mirror. Harley’s Sportsters have been around and in continuous production since 1957.
For most of that time this was the smallest-capacity machine produced by the iconic American brand, although that position is now taken by the Street 750.
Nevertheless, the bike is still regarded as an entrylevel model and a way into the world of owning a Harley. This bike is undeniably cool.
It is part of the company’s Dark Custom range, so it looks mean and moody with the frame, engine casings, exhausts and most other parts blacked out.
The only colour on my silver test bike was on the rather groovy peanut tank and the two fenders. With a seat height of 760mm or just under 30in, the Iron is low, one of the reasons it is popular for newish riders including women.
At 256kg (564lb) it’s not light, but with both boots firmly planted flat on the tarmac on either side, the bike feels perfectly manageable and the rider in complete control.
The ride position is upright and comfortable, with wide, nicely angled bars.
The cockpit is a simple but elegant affair – a single round clock with analogue speedo and small digital screen which displays the usual information, including gear selected and revs.
Spec-wise, ABS comes as standard, but there’s not much else – no ride modes, traction control or other electronic wizardry.
With the fob in your pocket – no key involved – hit the start button and the V-twin thuds into life. What can I say about the ride? It’s not particularly powerful, the gearbox is a bit clunky, the handling is lethargic and the footpegs can be scraped easily.
The suspension is comfortable enough, but not adjustable; that tank looks cool but is good for only about 100 miles of fuel, and the brakes aren’t the sharpest. So, overall, a bit of a dud right? Far from it. I still love the Iron. It may be basic but this is pure, simple, unadulterated motorcycling at its best.
This bike looks cool and it feels cool – and it makes you want to ride off into an Arizona sunset.
H-D Iron 883 Engine: 883cc V-twin
Power: 52bhp @ 6,000rpm
Torque: 54 lb ft @ 3,750rpm
Colours: Black; silver; grey; orange/silver
Price: From £8,895