Harley-Davidson Street vs Iron 883: Which is the Better Ride?

Do you love the feeling of the wind in your hair as you speed down the highway? Are you looking for a Harley-Davidson that will take you there in style?

The Street series (500 and 750) offers a lighter, more affordable urban cruiser with a liquid-cooled engine, ideal for city riding. The Iron 883 features an air-cooled V-twin, classic styling, and more torque, appealing to riders who want Harley’s traditional look and feel.

In this article, we’ll be comparing the Harley-Davidson Street and Iron 883 to help you decide which is the better ride for you. By the end of this article, you’ll know which bike is right for you and why. So, buckle up and let’s get started!

Overview of Harley-Davidson Street 750

Harley-Davidson is an iconic American motorcycle brand that has been producing world-class bikes for over a century. The brand has released a plethora of exceptional models in its history, and the Harley-Davidson Street 750 is one of the relatively newer additions to the Harley lineup. This bike was introduced in 2014 as a new entry-level motorcycle that was designed to appeal to a younger and more urban demographic.

The Harley-Davidson Street 750 is a lightweight cruiser that is powered by a liquid-cooled 740cc V-twin engine. It comes with a low seat height of just 28 inches, which makes the bike accessible to riders of all sizes. It is also equipped with a six-speed transmission and a belt drive system, which provides a smooth and reliable ride.

One of the unique features of the Harley-Davidson Street 750 is its styling. The motorcycle has a modern, urban-inspired design that is quite different from the traditional Harley-Davidson look. The bike has a blacked-out frame and minimalist bodywork, which gives the bike a sleek and stylish appearance.

In terms of performance, the Harley-Davidson Street 750 is quite capable. The V-twin engine can produce 60 HP and 43 lb-ft of torque, giving it a lot of power for cruising around town or speeding on the highway. The bike also has a low center of gravity and nimble handling, which makes it easy to maneuver in traffic.

The Harley-Davidson Street 750 also comes equipped with some modern features that aren’t typically found on cruisers. It has a digital instrument cluster that offers all the necessary information to the rider, including RPM, speed, fuel level, and more. Further, it also has anti-lock brakes, which provide added safety and confidence when riding in wet or slippery conditions.

Overview of Harley-Davidson Iron 883

Other than the Harley-Davidson Street 750, Harley-Davidson also has many stunning models loved by thousands of loyal riders. Among its extensive lineup of splendid bikes, the Harley-Davidson Iron 883 is an extremely popular model that has been impressing riders with its exceptional performance since its introduction in 2009.

The Iron 883 is a member of Harley-Davidson’s Sportster lineup, which features a range of motorcycles that are designed to be both stylish and functional. This cruiser-style bike is powered by a 883cc V-twin engine. Despite its relatively small displacement, the engine produces a hefty 53 HP and 54 lb-ft of torque, providing a satisfying level of performance for riders.

One of the defining features of the Harley-Davidson Iron 883 is its classic styling. This bike comes with a minimalistic design that is inspired by Harley-Davidson’s rich heritage. Further, there is also a blacked-out engine, exhaust system, and wheels. The bike also has a low profile and a distinctive peanut-shaped fuel tank, which gives it a unique look that is unmistakably Harley-Davidson.

The Iron 883 comes equipped with a wide range of modern features that make it more comfortable and convenient to ride. It has got a low, comfortable seat that is perfect for long rides, and its suspension system has been updated to provide a much smoother and more responsive ride. The bike comes with a modern digital instrument cluster that offers riders all the important info they might need, including speed, gear position, and fuel level.

Despite having a classic design, the Iron 883 is a practical motorcycle. There is a relatively low seat height of 29.9 inches, which makes it accessible to a wide range of riders. Further, bikers can enjoy lightweight and nimble handling, which makes it easy to maneuver in traffic and around tight corners.

Harley-Davidson Street vs Iron 883: Design and style differences

Design and styling are typically two of the most integral features of Harley-Davidson motorcycles. The Harley-Davidson Street 750 and Harley-Davidson Iron 883 are two incredibly popular models in Harley’s lineup. These two motorcycles are quite different in terms of their interior and exterior design and styling – 

Exterior

The Harley-Davidson Street 750 and Harley-Davidson Iron 883 are cruiser-style bikes, but they have distinct exterior design and style differences. The Street 750 offers are more modern and urban-inspired design, with a blacked-out frame, a sleek appearance, and minimalist bodywork. There is a low seat height and a lightweight design, making it quite easy to handle and maneuver in urban environments.

The Harley-Davidson Iron 883, on the other hand, has a classic cruiser design that is inspired by the brand’s rich heritage. There is a minimalist look with a peanut-shaped fuel tank, a blacked-out engine, and wheels. The motorcycle has a low profile and a more muscular appearance compared to the Street 750, giving it a more aggressive and powerful look.

Interior

When it comes to interior design, both of these motorcycles offer a comfortable and practical riding experience. The Street 750 has a modern digital instrument cluster that provides riders with all the important information they need, including speed, fuel level, and gear position. The bike has a comfortable seat and a suspension system that provides a smooth and responsive ride.

Meanwhile, the Harley-Davidson Iron 883 has a more traditional instrument cluster that features analog gauges for speed and RPM. The motorcycle has a comfortable seat that is designed to offer a more upright riding position, which is ideal for long rides. The suspension system has been updated to deliver a smoother and more responsive ride.

Harley-Davidson Street vs Iron 883: Performance and handling differences

Other than the design and styling, the Harley-Davidson Street 750 and the Harley-Davidson Iron 883 are also quite different in terms of their performance and handling. Here is how the two popular bikes differ in terms of motor, brakes, suspension, and tires among other performance and handling aspects.

Motor

The Harley-Davidson Street 750 comes powered by a liquid-cooled, Revolution X V-twin engine that produces 60 Nm of torque at 4,000 RPM. The engine has been mated to a six-speed transmission and provides smooth power delivery throughout the rev range. The bike has been designed to be a nimble and responsive motorcycle that is well-suited for urban riding.

On the other hand, the Harley-Davidson Iron 883 comes powered by an air-cooled Evolution V-twin engine that produces 53 HP and 54 lb-ft of torque. The engine is also mated to a six-speed transmission, but it’ll provide a more visceral and powerful riding experience than the Street 750. The Iron 883 has been designed to be a classic cruiser that offers both style and power.

Brakes

The braking systems on the Harley-Davidson Street 750 and Harley-Davidson Iron 883 are quite different. The Street 750 comes with a single front disc brake and a rear drum brake. Although this setup is quite effective at slowing down the bike, it isn’t as powerful as the braking system on the Iron 883.

The Iron 883 comes with dual front disc brakes and a single rear disc brake. This setup offers much more stopping power than the Street 750 while allowing for more precise control over the bike’s speed.

Suspension

The suspension systems on the two motorcycles are also quite different. The Street 750 comes with a conventional telescopic front fork and twin shocks in the rear. This setup offers a comfortable ride, but it isn’t quite as responsive as the suspension system on the Harley-Davidson Iron 883.

The Iron 883 comes with a premium cartridge fork in the front and a premium emulsion rear shock with a screw adjuster. This suspension system provides a more precise and responsive ride, which makes the Iron 883 better suited for aggressive riding.

Tires

The tires on the two Harley motorcycles are also very different. The Harley-Davidson Street 750 comes with Michelin Scorcher tires, which are designed for tremendous grip and stability in both wet and dry conditions. The tires are well-suited for urban riding and provide decent traction on a variety of surfaces.

Meanwhile, the Iron 883 comes with Michelin Scorcher “31” tires. These tires are wider and have a more aggressive tread pattern than the tires on the Harley-Davidson Street 750. These tires provide better grip and handling in corners and are well-suited for more aggressive riding.

Harley-Davidson Street vs Iron 883: Comfort and convenience differences

The Harley-Davidson Street 750 and Harley-Davidson Iron 883 come with notable differences in terms of their seats, ergonomics, comfort, and convenience. Seat, ergonomics, technology, and electronics can have a significant impact on rider comfort and convenience of both Street 750 and Iron 883. Here are how the two bikes compare – 

Seat and ergonomics

The seat and ergonomics of the motorcycle can have a major impact on the biker’s comfort during long rides. The Harley-Davidson Street 750 features a low, comfortable seat that is designed to provide a relaxed riding position. The biker’s feet are positioned forward, with mid-mounted foot controls, which greatly contribute to the riding experience.

The Harley-Davidson Iron 883 also comes with a solo seat, designed to give the rider a more aggressive riding position. The seat is positioned further back and the foot pegs are moved forward, which can lead to a more aggressive posture. Further, the Iron 883 also has an option for a two-up seat, which allows a passenger to ride along.

Technology and electronics

The Harley-Davidson Street 750 and Harley-Davidson Iron 883 also differ greatly in their technology and electronics offerings. The Street 750 comes with a basic LCD instrument cluster that displays key information such as speed, fuel level, and gear position. Further, it has a USB charging port located near the battery.

The Harley-Davidson Iron 883 come with a more advanced instrument cluster with a digital speedometer, tachometer, and gear indicator. Further, it even features an optional security system, a keyless ignition system, and ABS brakes. These features offer added convenience and safety to the biker.

Additionally, the Iron 883 also has the option for a Boom! Box Infotainment system, which includes Bluetooth connectivity, a touch-screen display, and navigation. This system can provide added entertainment and convenience for riders who enjoy longer rides.

Harley-Davidson Street vs Iron 883: Pricing and value differences

When it comes to owning a Harley-Davidson motorcycle, there are various factors to consider, including the cost of ownership and resale value. While the Harley-Davidson Street 750 and Harley-Davidson Iron 883 are two incredibly popular models, their pricing and overall value over time are even better. The price and value make them a great option for any Harley enthusiast.

Cost of ownership

The cost of ownership for a Harley-Davidson motorcycle can include numerous expenses, such as maintenance, insurance, repairs, and fuel. In terms of the initial cost, the Harley-Davidson Street 750 is the more affordable option as it comes with a starting price of around $7,599. Meanwhile, the Harley-Davidson Iron 883 comes with a starting price of approx. $9,499.

In terms of maintenance and repairs, the cost can vary depending on the specific model and the level of care taken by the owner. However, since the two bikes have similar engine components, the cost of maintenance and repairs will likely be relatively similar between the two models.

Insurance is another important factor to consider when you are calculating the cost of ownership. Generally, insurance rates for Harley-Davidson bikes are higher than for other types of bikes due to their larger engine sizes and higher overall value. However, the rates may vary depending on the owner’s driving history and location.

Resale value

The resale value of the motorcycle is another key factor to consider when you are purchasing a Harley-Davidson bike. While all bikes depreciate over time, Harley-Davidson bikes typically hold their value better than other brands thanks to their reputation for quality and durability.

The Harley-Davidson 883 generally has a higher resale value than the Harley-Davidson Street 750 due to its higher price point and popularity among Harley enthusiasts. According to Kelley Blue Book, the 2018 Harley-Davidson Iron 883 has a resale value of approx. 60 to 65% of its original price, whereas the 2018 Street 750 has a resale value of approx. 50 to 55%.

The factors that can impact the resale value of a bike include the mileage, overall condition, and any modifications made by the owner. Regular maintenance and care can help preserve the value of the bike over time.

Pros and cons of Harley-Davidson Street 750

The Harley-Davidson Street 750 is an exceptional bike known for its sleek design and powerful engine. However, like any other motorcycle, the Harley-Davidson Street 750 also comes with its pros and cons. Here are some of the primary advantages and disadvantages of owning a Street 750.

The pros of owning a Street 750 are –

#1. An affordable price

One of the biggest pros of the Street 750 is its highly affordable price point. With a starting price of around $7,599, the Street 750 is one of the most affordable Harley-Davidson models on the market.

#2. Lightweight and maneuverable

The Harley-Davidson Street 750 is a relatively lightweight and easy-to-maneuver bike, which makes it a great option for bikers who are new to the Harley-Davidson brand or who prefer a smaller, more agile bike.

#3. Smooth ride

The Harley-Davidson Street 750’s liquid-cooled engine provides a smooth ride with minimal vibrations, which makes it comfortable for longer rides.

#4. Sleek design

The bike features a modern and sleek design that appeals to younger riders and those looking for a more contemporary look.

#5. Great fuel economy

The Street 750’s engine offers great fuel economy, which makes it an extremely affordable option for commuting and longer rides.

The cons of owning a Street 750 are –

#1. Limited power

Although the bike’s engine provides a smooth ride, it isn’t as powerful as some of the other Harley-Davidson models. This might be a disadvantage for bikers who are looking for a more thrilling, high-performance bike.

#2. Limited customization options

The Street 750 offers limited customization options compared to other Harley-Davidson bikes, which could be a disadvantage for bikers who want to personalize their bike.

#3. Limited passenger comfort

The bike’s seat is rather small and might not be comfortable for longer rides. Moreover, the bike’s rear suspension isn’t adjustable, which could result in a less comfortable ride for passengers.

#4. Noisy engine

Some bikers have reported that the Street 750’s engine is louder than expected. This might be a disadvantage for riders who prefer a quieter ride.

#5. Limited features

The Street 750 has limited features compared to some of the other Harley-Davidson models, such as heated grips and cruise control. This could be a disadvantage for bikers who prioritize convenience and comfort features.

Pros and cons of Harley-Davidson Iron 883

Harley-Davidson 883 is another great model from Harley-Davidson, and it offers an incredibly powerful engine and classic styling. However, just the Harley-Davidson Street 750, the Iron 883 also features its pros and cons. Here are the pros and cons of the Harley-Davidson Iron 883.

The pros of owning a Harley-Davidson Iron 883 are –

#1. Classic styling

The Harley-Davidson 883 features a classic, vintage-style design that is popular among riders who appreciate traditional Harley-Davidson bikes.

#2. Powerful engine

Its 883cc engine offers a lot of power, which makes it a great option for bikers who are looking for a high-performance motorcycle.

#3. Customization options

With the Iron 883, you can expect a variety of customization options, allowing the biker to personalize their bike to their individual tastes and preferences.

#4. Great handling

The bike offers great handling, which makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces and on winding roads.

#5. Comfortable ride

The suspension provides an extremely comfortable ride, even on longer journeys.

The cons of owning a Harley-Davidson Iron 883 are –

#1. Expensive compared to Street 750

One of the major drawbacks of the Iron 883 is its comparatively high price point. With a starting point of approx. $9,499, it is quite costly compared to the Street 750.

#2. Heavy weight

The bike is relatively heavy, which might be a disadvantage for bikers who prefer a lighter and more agile motorcycle.

#3. Limited passenger comfort

With this bike, the passenger seat is comparatively small, which might not be the most comfortable for longer rides. Moreover, the bike’s rear suspension isn’t adjustable, which might result in a less comfortable ride for passengers.

#4. Loud exhaust

Some bikers claim that the Iron 883’s exhaust is loud and might be a disadvantage for people who prefer a quieter ride.

#5. Limited fuel capacity

The Iron 883 has a relatively small fuel tank, which might be a drawback for riders who intend to take longer trips.

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