Harley Sportster 1200
Legendary twin has a reputation for torque for a good reason
Want to feel each big, fat, punching combustion stroke? Buy a Harley. Sportsters define the brand, and their simplistic pushrod V-twin makes up with a sense-prodding experience for what it lacks in outright go. There have been billions of different 1200s and you can pay £5k for a 30-yearold bike; however, go 2004-on for the rubber mounted engine and superior quality and refinement.
BUYER BEWARE
● Dealers offer warranties on used bikes with up to 70,000 miles, showing just how reliable the overhead-valve V-twin truly is.
● Drive belts can last 40,000 miles, but if any stones get inside the covers they can cause tears and reduce the service life – have a good nose about for any damage.
● All H-Ds rust inside the tailpipes, so don’t fret. Do worry if there’s rust where the spokes join the rim.
● If it’s got loud pipes make sure the fuelling has been tweaked to suit.