sporty hardtail conversion

[poweredbyford]

I'm looking to buy my first harley. I finally have enough money and can afford something better than a cheapo *** bike. But I'm still limited in my budget since i'm in school. I'd look to get a softail or dyna glide but I've only got enough to get a used Sportster and then fix to my liking. The major thing I don't like about the Sporty is how high it sits. I want something more low slung. So I was thinking of getting a hardtail conversion which will drop it 4 inches in the back.

But I've never rode a hardtail before, and I wanted to get some opinions on it. I don't want to be pissing blood after I ride 2 hours to the coast.

Also any advice on what to look for in a good used sporty would be appreciated.

[HDgirl]

My OM runs a hardtail panhead and he loves it, prefers that to the Heritage softail. The seat on the pan has big springs under it. To me it looks very comfy, but when I took it for a ride you could really tell that there were no shocks on the bike, I felt every bump. I think it may be worse for me because in order to reach the forward controls I really have to be sitting practically on the gas tank. It's your call but if your going to do long rides I'd want the comfort of shocks.

[jay 21]

look for a "hugger" or any model then add progressive 412 11" shocks and a white bros lowering kit, thats approx 2-2 1/2" or they sell extended swing arms foe more lowering. good luck on any choices.
check out www.sportster.perilith.com for a sporty maxed out or www.sportster.org for a TON of photos and ideas.