I have a 11 Ultra-Classic I love the ride on the new frame. But food for thought it will cost you somewhere between $1500 - $2000 to make the 12 run like the 08 that is assuming that the 08 has had the exhaust changed. And this is just my opinion but if you never had ABS you will not miss it and if you go with the assumption that you will have ABS if you every need it, then you should be wearing a full coverage helmet also just in case. Not trying to be a smart A$%^S about it but I do not think you could go wrong either way good luck on your decision ride safe

 

I got a 2011 RKC love the frame and the way it runs, and btw- really like the ABS brakes.

 

I had an '07 and now have an '11. For ME, the difference in price between the 2 bikes in question is too much...I'd go with the '08 and I'll bet you could get it for 14K. I'm not sold on the new frame and that fat rear tire just costs more to replace.

 

I'd go with a used 2009 and up with ABS and low mileage, in the color you like. They're much improved compared to the older models.
I bought my 09 Ultra w/ ABS, used with 2,400 miles, lots of add-ons and 5 year ESP. I saved 20% compared to a new one with the same stuff.
Lots of great deals out there, keep looking.

 

I have an '09 from new. No Problems.
What problems have YOU had with the '09/up you are talking about?

Or it is just you have a '06/older model and are just knocking the newer models to justify why you have not bought one?

 

One more good thing about the '09. As you are in FLA, the '09 came without the Catalytic Converter. No need to remove, or take a chance that someone with a "Hard On" for Federal regulations will check your bike to find it was removed.

 

Yes - the new bikes are worth the money.
Personally, I would wait for the ABS, unless you got a screamin deal on a non-abs bike.
On the other-hand, it was my understanding that all 2012 Limiteds have ABS. Are you sure the one you are looking at doesn't?

 

I ride an 08 105anniversary Ultra with abs and all the bells and whistles the new bikes have and would never trade it.

 

Love my 08. Can't imagine paying that much more for the newer version.

 

I have an 03 FLHTCUI and I love it. It is hard to stop fast without locking up rears, so ABS is the main reason I would buy a newer bike. Dont get a new bike without ABS.