I have been out of the motorcycle scene for the past 3 year and I am in the process of researching bikes, with the hopes to buy early next year. I am seriously considering a '17/ '18 Road King Special. I had a Street Glide which i purchased new in 2009, but regardless of my modifications, I could never get it to sit low enough that it didn't feel too top heavy or to where I felt like I was sitting in the bike as opposed to sitting on top of the bike. Additionally, I believe I had added a Tru-Trac, to provide additional stability.

Has there been any modifications to the frame since 2009?

Thanks!

 

2014,had the bigger front end components, not sure about the frame itself.

 

Thanks, been 'googling' a bit and it appears that 2009 was the year for the big frame / chassis redesign and not too much since then. I was just wondering if I would have the same height and clearance issues that I had with my '09 Street Glide if I were to purchased a newer Road King.

 

Changes in 2014 with the Rushmore project and from what I understand it is all new for 2017 year model on touring and 2018 on Softails.

 

Have you sit on a Heritage?
I know some guys that ride them for that very reason.
Go ahead, just sit on one and see...

 

I also bought a new 2009 SG in Sept 2008. I bought because of the new frame, wide rear tire, the new 17" front wheel and the regeared transmission that supposedly made 6th gear more usable plus maybe a few more things. Put 50k great miles on it.

When the 2014's came out with the new fairing, the 103HO, and new rear shocks, fatter front end with a 19" front wheel and infotainment system in Oct 2013 I bought a Street Glide Special and put 40K great miles on it.

A week ago I bought a new 2018 Street Glide Special and have 500 miles on it now.

I love to ride so I tend to perhaps ignore some things that others would be critical of but other than the change from air shocks on the 2009 SG and the larger front end in 2014 I think the same new frame from the 2009 model is still doing a great job.

 

There have been changes to the suspension and engine and a lot of other small things but the frame hasn’t changed at all since ‘09

 

The frame did change in 2014.The steering stem is larger, and the frame no longer has a grease fitting to lubricate the steering stem bearings.

 

To add to this I believe in 17 the fork tubes got beefed up but can't remember the particulars. A few MM FWIW.

 

Dealers usually have a "Fit" shop or specialist who can help with a lowered seat and different handle bars if needed. I got a pair of logger's boots that have surprisingly thick soles and heels that allow me to be comfortably flat footed. If you can't lower the bike, raise the ground.