American cruiser bike maker Harley recently launched two new offerings for this year. Both models belong to the Sportster line-up and one of them is the Iron 1200. Here is what we understood of the bike when we rode it in Spain.
Internationally, it is the Iron 883 that is the company most popular offering and the biggest feedback the manufacturer gets from buyers is that they would like it with a larger 1200cc motor. Well, Harley has gone and done just that. The bike we are riding is basically an Iron 883 that is equipped with a larger 1202cc motor from Harleys other offerings.
The Iron 1200 uses the same underpinnings as the regular Iron. Even though the new motor has more cc, the weight has barely increased. Interestingly, Harley has said that this new bike has the same kerb weight as the smaller Iron.
On the outside
Harley has changed up the outside of this Iron to help it stand out. In terms of design, this bike gets a redesigned headlight cowl that is inspired by custom bike builds. Additionally, the Iron 1200 also features a taller handlebar. This handlebar is positioned closer to the rider than the one on the Fort Eight which means it offers easier reach. Thanks to this the bike has a comfortable position. The engine and seat on this motorcycle is completely black-out. The graphics on the motorcycle are neat and inspired from decals from the 1970s.
How does it ride?
When compared to the smaller Iron, the two biggest stand-out features of this bike is the torque and the handlebar. This 1200 motor puts out 36 percent more torque than the standard bike taking the total to 97Nm. Secondly; the aforementioned handlebar offers a nicer seating position. However, the pegs do feel mid-set when they should have been forward-set to work with the raised handlebar.
The Iron 1200 uses a slim frame which uses a slim tank making the bike feel narrow between your thighs. Even though this motor offers good torque, but it comes with uneven throttle response and vibrations. This makes the motorcycle feel extremely analogue which is appealing to many.
This bike feels the best between 80-100kph, however when you twist open the throttle the bike rushes to 160kph. In terms of handling the bike feels well-judged and offers a planted feel. However, the suspension is a bit of a let-down. Further, it is very easy to scrape the bike and can happen at a really slow speed as well. Brakes however, are decent and ABS helps keeps things safe.
Should I buy one?
Harley India has stated that one of the motorcycles of the two new Sportsters may make its way to India by the festive season. If it is the Iron 1200, we expect it to be the most affordable Sportster available in India. We could even see an ex-showroom price of less than Rs 10 lakh.
