Rented an 09 Road king on my vacation and liked the handling much better than my 08
ultra classic. Could it be that it is the new frame that made the ride feel much nicer
or was it the fact that the road king is a much nimbler bike since it does not have the fairing and addtional weight? I feel like stepping down to a 2010 road king but I am conderned that I might regret it. What do you guys think

 

Like you said, probably a combination of the new frame and less weight, no tour-pak. I wouldn't consider it a "step down" at all, more of a lateral move.

 

if you don't need or want the additional stuff that comes with the Ultra then a move to a RK just might make you happier in the long run.

 

Road King is a great looking bike. I love the nostalgic look, but for me, the Electra Glides are the only way to go. Maybe you should look kinto a Street Glide. Has all the amenities of a EG, but a little more sporty. I own an EG standard and love it. You get the best of both worlds. Unfortunately I hear they stopped making these for 2010. Good luck with your decision. Ride safe!

 

Some may say it's a step up. I rented an Ultra and although it's a great bike, I can't imagine short hops in and around town everyday.

 

I'm thinking maybe doing the same. I bought the Ultra for the comfort and storage riding two up. Now my wife has her own bike and I want a sportier look. I've always thought the RK was the best bike for the money. Just don't want to deal with spoke rims anymore.

 

Maybe the new frame makes a difference to you but for me just making the Tour Pak detachable made a big difference in handling. I just put it on when needed now. I wouldn't like being without the radio after getting used to it.

I also installed a rear stabilizer which many say helps with the handling. I also rode a 2010 and didn't see much difference.

I don't see how a Road King is any different for riding around town than any other touring bike.

 

Both are great bikes and have +& - points. I my self bought a bare naked 03 EG Standard and have had a blast adding stuff to it during the years. Several Road King lady passengers comment on the thickness of my EG seat vs RK seat. Also the fairing provides extra protection/warmth to your hands if you do alot of cold weather riding. Good luck with your decision.

 

I Went from an 07 ultra to an 09 SG. Do not regret it at all. It was an adjustment getting used to the stiffer ride, but much easier to handle, sportier looking and what I call an overall good move.

 

I absolutely love mine. I don't think you'll find many folks out there who would say otherwise. Obviously the Ultra has more amenities, but they're not for me. Rode to work today with the King TourPak off and the windshield off, iPod in my ears....what a great way to start the day. Over the weekend I had the goodies back on and put 250+ miles on with the wife on back. We didn't want to stop. What a great bike!