I'd go with the '09 or an '08 if it's a steal, but got to have ABS!

 

09 I had a chance for a sweetheart deal on an 08, rode both went with the 09.

 

two extra teeth were added to the 09 rear pulley putting a little more power to the ground. acceleration is phenomenal.

 

I had an 07 ultra with the IDS installed, heated grips and all the crome and pipes etc. I wanted to upgrade so I went into the dealer and asked to ride his 09 demo that had sreamin eagle pipes and stage one download. It seemed to sit real high off the road and seemed more top heavy that my 07. The exhaust sounded really funny, kind of like a sick kawasaki or something. I rode it about 20 miles highway and city and decided that the 08 was the way for me to go. I had an acquaintance that traded in an 08 with 3,000 miles that he had spent about 4,000 on upgrades and he left them on it. I bought it for 20,600. and felt like I stole the bike. It is beautiful and runs great. Just got back from Milwaukee with wife on back , 1,850 miles, beautiful ride. I don't think I would like the 09 exhaust system. For about 350.00 I can put true duals on mine, but read that it looses torque when you do that. Dealer sold my 07 on consignment and netted me 18,400. I was really happy with turnout. I would buy 08 again if I had the chance to do it over.Bldr

 

Funny you say this, in addition to many other improvements, the exhaust is one of the best changes made for 09 over previous years. Much less heat on the rider and for sure the passenger. As far as sound goes, any stock sounds terrible; after adding aftermarket pipes, there would be no difference in sound between the 08 and 09. Both are great rides, but few would argue the improvements are insignificant. What each person buying needs to decide is how much they are worth. I believe the value of the 09 will outweigh the savings when it comes to resale. This is only my opinion but I can tell you I have no regrets buying my 09 and I had then opportunity to save a couple large bills if I went with a 08.

 

If money were no object, I would buy the latest, greatest, edition, even though it may develop some unforeseen troubles. Warranties are good enough to span the first couple of years. Once I buy, I tend to be happy with my purchase unless and until, the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. It appears the 2009 bikes are awesome, but then I felt the same way when I bought the 07 after putting 59000 miles on the 02.

For all the complaining 07 owners do, I find the complaints to be minor. Wallow in high speed curves doesn't bother me much, I don't have the heat and clatter issues others have had. The power is great, and it could be better if I chose to spend the money, but I'm happy with it as it is.

It all boils down to what you want out of your bike.

 

every year there will be a new bike with the latest upgrades go look listen and feel the bikes now and then make your decision ,If this is your last bike then buy the 09 if it isnt there will always be something to tempt you for the next one so pick one and go ride

 

If money isn't a factor, go for a new 09. If money is a factor, go for the 08 if its about $3K less. For an 07, I would want about 45K difference on a low mileage bike that had some extras. It would have to be mint.

 

2009.........no question about it.

Totally redesigned frame, 180 rear tire, new exhaust (if you leave it stock), new wheels look great. Throw in the ABS option for added safety.

Steve

 

I agree ride em both then buy the one you like!
I have an 09 Ultra Classic on order rode the 07 and 08 then the 09 and it just was a better ride IMO