I am going to purchase a new road glide. I would like to know the differences between the 09 and 10 models. I know that the 10 already comes lowered, but the 09 has a larger windshield, and I can have the 09 lowered. Also I can save a little on an 09.

 

You already answered your own question, except for the fact that you would be buying a model that is a year old already, unless that is how you are factoring in the savings.

 

I am not sure of the specific differences. But, my general opinion is I would look for a good deal on a 09. The differences aren't that significant. The savings can be.

 

To start, you have selected what I consider to be the best H-D bike you could choose for cruising and touring... the Road Glide! Every day I ride my new FLTRX I continue to revel in what an amazing design this bike is.

If you're into looks, colors and gas tank graphics might be one of your considerations. Not sure about '09, but for 2010 you can have Black, Scarlet Red, and the sexiest color... Black denim! And I think the 2010 graphics are wonderfully classy and tasty.

Actually, the Red Hot Sunglo Denim is incredible looking as well... and I believe the '09 came in that color! But good luck finding one.

Someone else can fill in on the feature differences.

 

09 had rear footboards,cruise,dual exhaust,no catalytic converter,a taillight, all standard. Wasn't lowered,didn't have the rear filler panels or lower rear fender extension. Buy the 09 and make it like you want. IMO the catalytic converter is the biggest drawback.

 

thank you for the replies. I was worried about the cat ( not that I am going to mod the heck out of the motor ), I've got an FXR to hotrod. I just want a good ride to take on a long trip. I guess the 09 will be a better choice, cause I can save a couple of bucks and use the savings to lower the bike thanks for your replies

 

The biggest thing I dislike about the 2010 is the one exhaust....I like the duel pipes....but that's me.

 

Since you're in California both the '09 and '10 will have a cat.

Just my $0.02 but I'd still go for the '09 since it's better set up for touring and comes with dual mufflers and nicer looking wheels. Also, the longer suspension will be better for enjoying those great twisties in NoCal. These bikes don't have much cornering clearance and lowering them only makes it worse, not to mention the ride harsher!

 

The 09 also comes with a cruise control standard, and the air baffle between the front forks, longer rear shocks, a reasonably functional windshield, and the stock seat is "OK" compared to the strret glide seat on the 10, and it's cheaper.

 

First you should determine what direction you want to take the bike (solo rider, 2-up, touring, etc.) and than purchase the year model that is closest to what you want to do. Both will most likely get a new shield so that is a wash. After that you have rims, ride (shocks and seat), colors, exhaust, etc.

Since both bikes are basically the same, they can both get to the same point just a matter of how far you want to go and how much you want to spend after the purchase. If you plan to totally change everything to customize the bike, get the cheapest deal you can find ('09).

And remember no mater which model you get, it will still be GOOD.