Well, I couldn't stand it any longer, I bit the bullet and traded in my 07 Ultra for an 09. Picked her up at 2:00 today and put 150 miles on her before I had to get back home. Here's my thoughts so far:

• ABS - this is my main reason for wanting to upgrade. I've had a high side fall, and I'm a firm believer in ABS. I really like the new brakes, they will STOP you quick when you need it. I found an empty lot and tested locking them up in a panic stop. Even though I was only going about 40, I was able to lock them up and hear the chirp and feel the vibration. Straight as an arrow. So far, so good.
• Frame - The bike does seem to sit a bit higher. I'm a big guy, and added a Tallboy seat, but I noticed the bike was a little harder to pick up off the sidestand. Maybe the 6 gallon tank had a bit to do with it. But it rides really, really nice! I found some sweepers and hit them at about 70. My 07 would sometimes start to feel like the front wheel was loosing traction, and that's when I immediately backed down. With this bike, I had no such problem, she is steady as a rock. Overall, the ride is a big improvement, it just feels more stable and steady.
• Back tire - Hmm, kinda hard to tell. It felt like a rear tire, what can I say. But it did seem to take the bumps a bit better. I think I need more time to evaluate. But hey, it looks cool.
• Heat - It was about 90 today, and I could still feel the heat, but it wasn't burning me.

I had the dealer do a SE A/C, and a stage one download. I've ordered some Kerker slipons, which will hopefully be in by next week. The bike ran great, no problems or popping.

Oh yeah, she's Dark Blue Pearl. I'll post some pics next week when I get the pipes on.

 

I picked my 09 Ultra up a couple of weeks ago and have 1900km on it so far. I can echo everything you said. This is by far the best riding and most comfortable bike I have ever owned. Plan on keeping it a long time!! Looking forward to seeing those pics!!

 

Congrats...glad you got ABS...I am hoping I don't need ABS I haven't for the last 35 years.

 

congrats on the new scoot........nothing better than a new bike sitting in the garage

 

Nice...looking forward to the pics! Picked up a '09 SG in vivid black a few weeks back. I am in Liberty Hill - we should hook up for a ride!

FYI, she is bone stock (other than the seat mods). Considering a stage 1 from fuelmoto when they have the '09 kits ready...

--Ron

 

I love my 09 Ultra. Best bike I have ever ridden on (Harley anyway).

Here's mine.

lp

 

+100%

 

I just "hate" you guys!.......Not really!

 

Congrats on the 09! I love mine as well!

 

Congrats and thanks for your input on the bike!