A used 2009 is the best, but you can't have mine.

 

I have 1 2000 uc and love it it ride great good power

 

I thought a used 2009 was a good decision in 2010, and still have no regrets.

 

traveler said:
"If it all possible, get a model with ABS. It's a lifesaver, and if you ever need to sell the bike later, it is a HUGE selling point. If it has cruise that's another plus."


Oh yeah, my next bike has to have ABS and cruise control, I see these two items as being a must for a touring bike, for me in any case.

 

HD Forum Rules:

1. Most members will tend to recommend the year they ride. Every now and then you wil find a truly objective assessment of different model years but you have to read alot and look very closely.

2. Most mechanics will tell you a motor with "square" bore and stroke provide the best performance and least amount of vibration when compared to stock TC88s and TC96s. That would suggest the 95" big bore TC88 or 103" big bore TC96 vibrate less and can significantly outperform the stock motors.

3. I ride a 2007 Ultra and in my mind the jury is still out on the 2009 frame change only be only because I have no experience on one. Most riders that rave about them happen to own them.See rule #1. I have actually heard of a biker that didn't like the 2009 and newer changes and went backk to a 2007/2008.

Just my

 

the best bargain for me is my (bought new) 06 RKC and 99 R6, both of which are paid off.

 

You'll always find folks that will go back. All I know is the vast majority of those who have owned/ridden both will testify to the improvements in the 09+ models as far as the frames and suspensions are concerned.

My 09 Ultra is the first Harley I've personally owned. I rented an 08 Ultra and put 1100 miles on it in April of 08. I really liked the bike and was poised to buy a new 08 model in June of that year but unexpected household expenses conspired to squelch that idea. While resaving for a downpayment, I did a factory demo ride in October of the new 09 bikes and even after the six months time frame since riding the 08 model, I could feel a noticable difference in how the bike felt. It's not that there was anything wrong with the 08, it's just that the 09 felt a bit more planted. I would have been satisfied with the 08 but am glad I wound up with the 09, took delivery of my bke in February of 09.

All I can recommend is that you try one. It might not be enough of an improvement to justify the upgrade in your case but you never know.

Ride Safe,
Steve R.

 

Wife has a 09 Street Glide and I have a 11 Road Glide Ultra so we have 1 of each engine sure not much difference in them when riding normal. We did a Fuel Moto Stage 1 to the Street Glide and it sure gave the engine more life.

 

The '09 is a fantastic bike, I've been very pleased with mine in every way. I ride the hell out of mine and couldnt be more satisfied. Look for a low mileage used garage queen and you'll be very happy IMHO.

 

In my opinion, Harley increased the displacement from 96" to 103" to make up for the addition of the Catalytic Converter and other EPA requirements. I have rode the 103" after I bought my '09. The feel of power between a stock 103" and the stock 96" was not much. But when I added the Stage 1 Kit to mine, the motor was awakened and had more power. I have a friend that rides a stock 103". I was able to walk off from him when we had a "Ride Off" going down the road. I laughed at him and told him he needed to wake his up.

Save money and get the 96". You can always increase the displacement later, if you want the 103".