There is no doubt that I would go for the '09. The changes are all positive and not cosmetic. If I didn't have my '08 just like I want it (103", etc.), I'd buy an '09.

As far as the guy's comment on the poor HK radio, mine hasn't hiccuped in 12,000 miles.

The 5th gear whine is a characteristic, not a defect and it doesn't bother me a bit.

 

09............If you have the cash

 

I am very happy with my 08, and really do not care for the wide rear tire all that much. It seems that the new bikes are always so much better than the last but I'll be dam if I am going to trade in my 08 and lose money just for an 09. I will just keep my skinney tire, hot runnin old 08 until she wears out.