I'm thinking about getting a new bike. Either an anniversary 2008 Wide Glide (last year of production) or a new 2009 Softail Custom. I can get both bikes new locally.

I own a 2000 softail deuce now and want the larger engine 96 and 6 speed with fuel injection, both bikes have it now.

Just looking for opinions on pros and cons...any known problems with the 6 speed trans? or any concerns on both bikes? upgrades and so on..

Thanks for your insight on this... every little bit helps as far as research.

 

I have a 2007 Wide Glide. I HAD a 2006. I'd say look for a 2006 or slightly older Wide Glide, and throw some cash in it for a 95" motor. IMO, the 96" is a dog. I by far preferred the 88. A bored engined, is better than a stroked engine, performance wise. I know I'll get flamed for this, but I had both of them and I know the 88" was better.

 

really... maybe I should just stick with what I have then. It's only got 20k on it.

 

I have an 03 Ultra and last June I picked up an 08 Wide Glide. I love it. It runs smooth and is long legged, especially with the six speed. I drive it more than my Ultra, but mostly locally and use the Ultra for long trips. You won't regret geting one.

 

I, obviously, prefer the WG, but, if I was forced to buy the '08 with that Duracell paint job, it would probably get painted within 48 hours of getting it home.

 

I tend to agree with Jason L on the 88" + upgrades, boring, cams, head polishing, etc., vs the stroked 96". I personally think the only reason they (MOCO) went to the 96" with a stroked motor was because they knew they needed some more poop, but that they also wanted to use all the existing stock already on the shelf or in the pipeline... I>E> heads, valves, springs, bearings, jugs, rings, pistons, etc...That change wasn't what I'd consider a real upgrade to a new engine. HD has never (to my knowledge) and I could be wrong here, just stroked a motor and introduced it as an upgrade. I'd be surprised if we don't see a real change in the motor within the next three years. That platform, basic 88", stroked to 96" has been with us now since about '98 (guessing here without looking it up) but that's a long time in the mechanical world. FWIW...

 

Thanks for the input guys, I think i'm just gonna keep what i have and install a 95 kit. In AZ they just installed 150 more photo radar camera's on all the freeways so the 6 spd trans isn't a biggie anymore as 90% of my riding is in town. Plus it will cost another 5,000-7,000.00 to get the new bike to look how I want it with chrome and whatnot. Plus my insurance will go up $200.00 a year not to mention the tags...

i'd rather spend the money on wheels and tires for my bike as it's going to need new rubber in 5k anyways.

Thanks again for your help..

 

+1 You've already got a great looking bike. Add a 6-speed and 95 kit and you're good for far less cash.

 

If what you got runs good now, do the 95. The six speed is a 1:1 and isn't really an overdrive six speed.