I have an 08 RKC with ABS. I rented an 09 RK and did notice a nice difference in just the way the bike felt. Can't really describe it but someone said the new suspension made things feel more solid another said it felt more "buttoned up." I would have to agree. Rather than trade in a perfectly good 08 for an 09, I ordered a bagger brace to see if it gives me that same feeling. I'd love to hear comments as to whether this idea of mine is off the wall or not. If I am right, then getting an 08 for less money, putting a bagger brace on (or similar device) and having money left over for bling might be an option to consider. If I am wrong, then get an 09 for sure.

 

Ride them all then decide.

 

I traded my 03 Road king for an 09 Ultra, but have not picked it up from the dealer yet. When I saw the back of the new Road King with the wider fender and tire, it looked mean as hell. The gearing has changed from 08-09 also, not sure if that was dome by changeing the rear pully or transmission gearing, but It should make 6th gear more useable on the 09's. I would go with the 09 as well. I just can't wait for spring!

 

Like Vettedog said, I have a '07 FLHX and love it, but if I were you I would spend the extra money and buy a '09 for the better frame and latest and greatest technology.

 

09 all the way.

Especially coming from a sportbike, you will appreciate the tighter handling of the 09.

 

The '09's are already starting to come up used on eBay, in the spring there will be more and more then when the '10's come out there will be lots of people wanting to trade up to the latest and greatest so there should be some really good deals.

 

They spent a lot of time and money revamping the touring line this year, i'm not sure they will change much for the '10 model. With the economy the way it is, i'm sure a lot of R&D is scaled down, and the cost of retooling is expensive.
The sportster got a facelift a few years back, rubber mounts, new tank, etc. The Softails got bigger rear tires, maybe the Dyna is next?

 

'09 Ultra with 150 miles just sold on eBay for 17,900 so there are lots of deals out there. There aren't many things that devalue faster then a new vehicle purchase.

 

I went from an '05 EGC to this '09 RK and am very impressed with the new bike. It handles very solidly and feels planted on the road. The gearing in 6th is by a pulley change and is an improvement over the '07 that my Dad has as far as "usability". Many complained that if you were doing 65-75 the 6th gear felt too tall in '07 and '08 models. This has been eliminated in the '09 and unless you're hauling alot of weight or going up a grade you can do 65-70 in 6th all day long and not feel you're in the wrong gear. I like the 6 gallon tank for sure. The ride is solid and feels more positive especially in curves at speed is where you'll notice this the most.

The routing of the exhaust I like alot too. Not only is it a tiny bit cooler for the rider but from a practical standpoint it's easier to access the oil and tranny filler holes too without that cross-over pipe being in your way. From what I've heard this exhaust has a better scavenging effect than earlier models and is approaching what a 2 into 1 exhaust gives for performance.

I pondered the idea of an '08 for a better price perhaps but the '09 just has too many improvements going for it so I opted for the '09.

 

The Bagger Brace makes a noticeable difference. Since I put mine on I never get that "damned rear tire seems soft yet I just checked it" sensation on road snakes and fast sweepers.