Don't worry, I will.
Okay, motorcycle people, what do you think? I currently ride a Sportster. Everybody (husband and motorcycle sales critters) thinks I should go to a Dyna because of the lower center of gravity.
I'm not sure about the added weight vs. lower seat. I'm 5 feet tall, 105 pounds. Advice?
Keep the sportster, and enjoy it. I like mine: )
Go with your gut feeling ~ just ride, ride, ride. :)
I've owned three Harleys, twenty plus bikes of other makes, in 56 years of riding and they are all good!
The lower seat will allow you to put your feet down. The lower CG gives you more leverage. The added wt only matters if you're going to pick it up and toss it in the bed of your PU.
Sandy, go with the Dyna! It'll be much more fun to ride than the Sporty. If you've already got some seat time on the Sportster, the transition to the Dyna shouldn't be too difficult. Spend a day or two practicing the low-speed parking lot stuff and getting used to the different braking characteristics.
The Dyna will be slightly heavier, however the lower center of gravity (compared to the Sportster) will offset that nicely. You'll probably have more issues with the longer wheelbase than the added weight. The Dyna will be much more comfortable, especially on the long haul. Plus, babes on Big Twins are really sexy . . .
I made the change from an FXRS to a big ole Ultra Classic bagger at the end of the riding season last year. It took me about 300 miles of mixed riding to get used to the different feel (and the 200 lbs additional weight).
Ride Safe! Kill a few bugs for me . . .
I'd like to have a sportster, but that's mostly because that's what I could afford. Fat Boy Softtail if I had my druthers. OR a Dyna Low Rider... like 'em both. Road King is really cool, but my goodness that's a lot of bike.
I have a '91 Sporty with short shocks on it. It sits reeeal low. Look into shorter rear shocks.
Also, there is quite a weight difference. Your Sporty will be easier to 'muscle' around than the Dyna. The handling on the Sporty is quicker, but if you're looking for slower turning, look into a 'rake' kit.
Sporties are fun. The 1200's are berrry quick. I think you will enjoy making your Sporty your own. Plus you are already used to the way it rides. Stay with it.
I'm 5'1". You can ride just about any Harley your little heart desires. If you can ride your Sportster, everything but a touring bikes will be a piece of cake. Although the brake on the softails might be a reach.