My one buddy who rides (and just started) bought a new Honda Rebel 300 in May. He did what many do and rode his first bike for a few months and began planning for an upgrade. For Christmas he traded on a new Harley 883 sportster.
I stopped by his place yesterday to take a look at the bike. I must say it was pretty cool. Low seat, blacked out and the throaty rumble from the (factory!) pipes. I wasn't planning to ride it but he wouldn't take no for an answer, even though I had no gear at all (helmet, gloves, etc.). It was a balmy 30 degrees F but I took it for a quick spin. Just a few blocks out and back.
The pure mechanical noise and vibration was really cool. This is about as basic as a machine gets. It was really fun on my brief ride. I can't wait to spend some more time on the bike this Spring when the weather is nicer. I never imagined I'd be so excited about riding a Harley!
pic of similar bike attached.