Hey Gang, so these are my best options for purchase:

06 SG has 19k - 88 and 5sp
08 Ultra has 32k - 96 and 6sp of course

Aside from the larger motor and extra gear, what are your opinions on which to choose, what to look out for, etc.??

 

The 06 had spring loaded cam chain tensioners that are prone to fail and can cause catastrophic failure if they do, although at 19k it's not a major concern yet. There's some that say its more cost effective to start with an Ultra and turn it into a Street Glide than to start with a SG and add a tourpack, lowers, passenger boards and the like.

 

Everyone seems to hate on the '08. I have an 08 RK and its been reliable, minus the starter went out two years ago. I personally like the throttle by wire and have had zero issues with it and the six gallon tank. The six speed is nice, but is geared alittle to tall. In general, I'm very happy with my 08.

 

Thanks! I didn't even think about when the tensioners changed. Guess I thought it was 06. But was 07 right?

 

Yes tensioners changed in 07 when the 96 came out. 07 and 08 are kind of orphan years meaning some parts are hard to find and or obsolete. I'm very happy with my 07. 08 was first year of drive by wire throttle and there were some failures. I would think by now it would have been fixed on that bike. As already mentioned the gearing is horrible rendering 6th useless unless over 80 mph.

88 with a 5 speed is a good combination. Tires on 08 and older are far cheaper than the 09 and up.

Good luck with your search

 

As much as I loved my '06 SG, I always wished for the extra gas capacity and 6th gear that my ex had with his '08 EG. I had to have the tensioners changed too.

I finally traded in for an '11 SG late last fall and am happy I did. Plus, the '11 came with lowers too, which I love, love, love (I'm cold blooded and if my legs are cold, I am freezing). And, you won't regrett having the 96 instead of the 88 either.

 

I would keep searching, find an '09+. I honestly don't know what your budget is, but I believe you can find one that fits.

The key to finding a great deal, is don't fall in love with anything, and KNOW that even if you pass on a deal, there will be another.

There really is no "deal of a lifetime"...

 

Another consideration is the type of riding you are going to do. If you are going to do a lot of long trip and touring then the Ultra Classic has a lot of advantages over the SG.

 

I have no complaints about my 08 flhx.. Get whatever you want, make it urs, and ride the ****

 

I have an 06, and it's been a great bike. My friend had an 08, and his was pretty much trouble free except his throttle by wire. Even after taking it I. For some sort of ECM download, he would have to reset it with the ignition switch often.

Power wise, we were about even, so the 96 rally didn't add much ommf.

If it were me, I would opt for the lower miles, as I just went over 60K, and I am now starting to replace many things that are just wearing out from use.