Looking to purchase my first Harley and it will be an Ultra Classic. I'm looking at some used 08's, 09's and 10's. I know there were some upgrades from 08 to 09. (frame, motor mounts, 5th gear). My question is, are the upgrades that drastic that if I went with an 08 I will regret not going for a newer one?

I've never owned a Harley but rode an 07 Ultra and loved it. The wife went for a ride and came back saying I wouldn't be able to keep her off one of those. Considering I have a 96 Honda 1100 ace right now. I told her I'd get a used one and stay in the price range of 17k so she gave me the green light. But after doing some research and reading I'm thinking I should spend a little more and get a newer one. Al

So could I get some thoughts and suggestions from you guys that have rode/had an 08 and upgraded to an 09 or 10. Also, what is your thoughts on the ABS?

TY in advance and great site, very informative!!

 

That is a tricky question. If you never ride a 09 or 10 you really won't notice the differance. I can tell you I was very impressed with the better ride and handleing
of my 09 over my 07 and I love my ABS. I hope I never have the need for it again
but I glad I have it

 

Look for a new 09. They're still out there and can be found.

 

The stock seat on the '09s and '10 is wider, making them feel a little taller if that makes a difference to you (yes other seats are available or the stock seat can be modified).
The frame and final drive ratio changes were the big improvements for '09. The '08 and '07 models 6th gear is rarely usable under 65-70 MPH. You can change a pulley to correct that. The '07s had the biggest problem with gear whine, IDS can be installed on them to quiet it down.
ABS is a personal choice, I don't care for it in my truck and don't want it on a bike.

 

I have an 08 Ultra with 35,000 miles, all trouble free. I've ridden the 09 on rentals for three hundred miles in varying terrain. At idle, I found the 09 frame much "quieter" in that it wasn't vibrating as much as my bike. As soon as you hit the throttle, both are very smooth. I found the 09 frame to produce a stiffer ride and I've heard this from others. I adjusted rear suspension air but still found the bike stiffer. I am a slow poke rider who doesn't take long sweepers at 85 mph and prefer long distance, cross-country riding. Hence, the more cushioned ride of the 08 is preferable to me. Mine has the ABS, and it came in very handy when I hit some black ice last winter. My guess is you'll be happy with any of these three bikes. It may come down to how much more you want to pay for each year newer of a bike you look at.

 

I've made my 07 into something I'll keep for a long time, but if I had to start over I'd get an 09 or newer. I test drove an 09 and a 10 for 4 hours each and the main difference is that the 09 and up feels way lighter because of the newer frame design. This makes a huge difference every time you come to a stop, putting your feet down much more casually. But because of that, when you're moving along the newer ones feel like I'm riding around on a mini bike compared to my more top heavy 07.

Kevin
07 Ultra

 

09 has all the new frame advantages, etc, but no catalytic converter to worry about.

Love my ABS, has saved my *** already!

 

Agree....09 (longer frame and no catalytic converter). Handles like a dream!!!!!

 

Any of the bikes will be good IF the deal you find is right. You should be able to find a good deal on new model (09 or 10) if you search a little. Will be more than the $17k planned, but a lot less than the new 11's. Just my 2 cents worth.

 

I know one thing for sure you're never gonna get your wife off the back of whatever year you pick, mine is with me 95% of the time and love it. Happy wife happy life she can go for miles and miles.