Just curious if the frame itself is worth a few k?
I'm looking at two bikes. One is an 08 the other an 09. Both have ABS and the 6 gallon tank.

Are the other changes really worth extra money?

 

'09 Frame means nothing to me,also remember it's not only the frame that's different.There's also the change from 160 to 180 tires and personal preference in that.Many will say you gotta get the '09 whether or not they ever ride hard enough to be able to really know about anything.Test ride 'em both,ride hard and see for yourself.

 

I own an 08 Road Glide. I can't personally tell the difference between the ride and handling of my 08 vs the same bike that's an 09 truthfully and I've been riding for about 40 years now, so I'm not new at this. Maybe a more aggressive type rider might be able to push it harder and tell a difference but the avg. person, probably not. The rear tire is smaller but in my older and wiser thinking I say "well its a cheaper tire to replace"..! It still handles well and cost me less to replace so I like that. Honestly, its a very personal decision. Ride both and decide, it's your coin and your decision.

 

I would go '09 due to all the info seen here on HDF, which seems to support the new frame, and primarily because you might always wonder if you don't.
Good Luck!

 

Can't ride both, I'm looking on ebay. The potential cost difference is pretty large though.

 

also can the 08ABS system get the new software that's '10 + ? I remember there were some software upgrades.

 

The 07 and 08's had quite a few crank failures, Harley addressed the issue in 09 from what I have been told. The 08 frame is a one year frame, kind of a odd ball. Not saying they are bad, Harley only made it for one year. Resale will always be stronger on the 09. Check this stuff out and make a informed decision.

FYI, I had a 07, that is how I know about the cranks.

 

I ride a 08 Ultra Classic and it is just fine. It is wider in the seat but other than that I doubt you will find any difference good or bad. They are both Harleys!

 

If you ride lots you will appreciate having a set of tires last twice as long on the 2009 vs. the 2008. 2008's are fine bikes though, nothing to sneeze at.

 

2008 also has a higher final drive,2.79, the 09 has 2.87.