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Even for a manufacturer like Harley-Davidson, which trades on its old-fashioned reputation, the Dark Custom series is like a time machine back to when motorcycles were the transportation of rebels. Back then, custom bikes were more raw and less flashy than todays chrome-plated luxo-cruisers. These new bikes ape that look with bobbed fenders, a hunkered-down stance, and flat paint finish. Theyve got blacked-out trim and lots of retro touches, too. But if you want the top dog Blackline, which is based on the Softail, itll run you close to $16,000. Woof.

Instead, try the Iron 883. Its got all the hooligan style of its bigger brothers, the 1200cc Nightster and Forty-Eight, but packs the standard Sportsters less potent 883cc V-twin. Theres still enough power to have fun; theres just a little less punch off the line. After some time in the saddle, the old-school simplicity of this bike makes you feel tough riding it and forget about the smaller motor. Best of all, when gas prices spike, your mean two-wheel machine delivers a combined fuel economy of 51 mpg. Keep in mind, though, that this is a smaller Harley. Those over 6 feet might need a roomier bike.