My previous post specifically mentions low-end and midrange power, which is useful at any time, even if you're not cruising the interestates. It is useful when you pass a truck on the backroads or anywhere else, and the 96" engine is superior to earlier TC's in that respect, all other factors being equal.

 

Indies are not all created equal any more than dealers and dealer mechanics. I saw one long-time local indy on TV recently begging people not to use synthetic oil in their HD's because their bearings would skate. That old myth needs to die, and the quicker the better.

 

Well, not saying you're not correct in your experience, but this isn't the case in mine. I had an Evo RK with EV13 cam, HI-E4 ignition, and carb mods, along with the usual AC and slip-ons, and it can't hold a candle to my new SG. It only has a PCIII, slip-ons, and AC. The Evo dynoed at 66HP/80TQ while the 96" is sitting on 78HP/94TQ. No Stage 1 TC88 I've ridden can equal a similarly equipped 96-incher in low-end and midrange performance.

 

I assume you have not ridden one of the '99-'01 FI bikes with stock3:37 gearing. On the bottom end and throttle roll ones in any gear, they will usually pull away from a similarly equipped 96 incher.

 

IMO, the six speed trans is worth it by its self. always was looking for that other gear, now its here..good riding..\

scott

 

NOT.

 

Sure it will.Unless it is the very most basic 95" upgrade, meaning just boring and sticking in a set of pistons and doing nothing else.

 

Latus hd shows dynos on how a stage one 96 has more the a stage one 88. And for the same price you get 103 instead of 95 but then Im sure some people believe you can get more power out of a 95

 

There is no low end on a 95 build? Hmmmm The upgrades on my bike cost me about $3,000 including cam, pistons pushrods, 2x1 pipes, SE air cleaner, Labor and dyno by a top notch pro. Check out these numbers 102 tq @ 2700 rpm

 

I've been through 5 bikes in the last 10 years. I like the tip about "resale value"...that strikes a chord close to my heart... I'd like to think this will be a long term purchase but...I know my history...just in case.

Lots of good tips 88 vs 96ci...I appreciate all of the help! Sounds like I would be happy with either. I currently (as you see in the sig pic I guess) have the 1200 sporty and am used to the 5 spd tranny and have no issues with it on hi-way (the little that I do).

Going to the RKC from the sporty would not be the smart move if I was looking for quicker or faster I guess...right?

I'll keep my search going and see where it takes me. You guys have really made memore confident in my search. Again, I appreciate the help.

I'll update the post when a decision is made. (by the way...lost out on the '04 at $12,500...it sold over the weekend -it was white with low miles. O.k. cause I prefer black anyway. Funny how black is cheaper when new but, holds it's resale value better - anyone else notice that...?)