I could not agree more. In some respects, I've got a better motorcycle.
(Hot forged crank with a Timken Left Bearing which is why its still running strong at 150,000 miles.)

Better tires, reinforced swingarm blocks (Nylatron,) and no, it doesn't handle like a race bike but its dependable and I know its limits. My last bike probably.

 

I am one that has taken an 09 on a 500 mile ride, and I ride my 03 all the time, for a long haul I like my 03 better, now that I have Ohlins there is no question. I think the more rigid frame transfers more bumps, and what not into the rider fatiguing you faster, that would probably go away with new suspension, but I noticed it more when I had stock shocks , and so did it.

 

If you get a older touring bike make sure you get a touring stabilizer on it
That will make a heck of a lot of difference in how well an older bike handles.
this is the voice of experience speaking, my bike was the worst handling bike
that I ever rode in my life, till i had a Throttle Up touring stabilize put on it,
now it handles as well as any other bike that I have ever been on.

 

You bring up a great point. I went from a 2004 FLHTPI to a 2013 FLHR. The main difference I can truly tell every single time I ride it is the 6 speed transmission. So I tell people if you're buying a bike, find a deal but get a 6 speed. To me that's just huge if you're going to spend any time going 70 mph. Other than the obvious fact that a newer bike is just newer and nicer, the tranny is the one part I'd say really matters. Suspension, windshields, handlebars, you name it is all easy to upgrade without a huge cost.

 

Six speeds would be nice but you know my 5 speed gets it done and has for a long while, perfectly capable.Of course the power is quite different.