Newbie here and First Harley

I finally got my first Harley an '07 XL 1200C Sportster, Since I have never had a Harley before I am not familiar with the normal sounds and vibrations that they have. I guess that my bigest concern is the very audible valve train noise. It sounds like very loud lifter noise. Is this common? I went to the dealer and they were not concerened, but it is distracting to me. Also I'm used to rideing japanese motorcycles so the vibration certainly is different, but is it normal for a Harley to lugg easlily.

I'm not too familiar with sportys, but if you're unfamiliar with the noise tell the dealer to explain it to you. If your used to *** bikes, you've got alot of getting used to on a Harley. They rattle, vibrate, and sometimes even leave their mark for you on the driveway. Get out there and ride and get used to it. You'll become familiar with all your bikes quirks and noises, then you'll be able to tell when something is wrong, or different. If you are into it, do a little investigation on your own. Listen to it closely and see where the noise is coming from. If you plan on doing any work to it, get a manual for it and start poking around. Sorry I couldn't be of more help, and good luck with it!

I'm fairly new myself... but, the latest issue of MCN has a review of an '07 Sportster.... They specifically mention it being louder than previous years. They do write that there's a "surprisingly" lot of vibration from idle and also while cruising. And they point out that shifting into 5th before 50mph makes the bike feel like it's lugging.
They didn't mention valve train noise specifically just that it's louder which might mean the same thing.

The article does give a favorable impression though, which means a lot coming from MCN.

I noticed the same "valve noise" on my softail when it was new. I don't know if it got quieter or I got used to it but I don't notice it anymore. Have fun on that new Harley!!

you are comparing apples and oranges, and you probably bought a harley from a calling you got from your gut. all the above mentioned are characteristic of harley and if your "foregin" bike were to make the same sound or vibration your probably about todo some assphalt crawling.

Don't worry about the sounds your Harley is making. Those noises are to be embraced! I have an '06 XL1200L... she rattles, shakes and makes a bit of a grumble, and I love it! That is a Harley, bro! The good thing is that your bike is warrantied for a couple of years, so don't worry about it. Just get out and ride it... get used to it... if it is a lemon, you can bring it back and be covered... but I seriously think that the bike is cool and you just gotta chill out and ride the thing.

Have fun! And if you haven't done it yet, get a Stage 1 done with V&H pipes... you'll thank me for it. :devil: