I believe HD made the Bones from 2008 to 2011. I am curious on what the differences were made from year to year. For example, I know the 2010 and 2011 models have a 5th gear that is helical in shape, which reportedly was made to reduce 5th gear noise. My brother and I both have 2009 X-Bones and I personally don't mind the "noise" of the 5th gear, although I haven't ridden a later model with the helical gear, so I don't know if I'd prefer the more silent running.

Does anyone know of any other differences from year to year?

Cosmetically, I think the 2008 models had the HD patent symbol on the oil tank, whereas the 2009 and 2010 models had the Willie G. X-Bones symbol, and the 2011 model had nothing painted on.

 

I was under the impression that the Willie GAY skull (also on my 09', so no offense meant) was only on the 2009.

 

Maybe it was just the '09 models that had the crossbones symbol?

Besides the 5th gear retooling in 2010, I wonder if there were any other mechanical changes?

 

Willie G. decal on oil tank, 5th gear modification, and paint schemes are the main differences. Nothing mechanical except for the 5th gear. Honestly, I havent heard many complaints at all regarding the gear noise on this forum.