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I have a 2008 Dyna Fat Bob since new, and am looking for an upgrade. Sights are set on a Road Glide Ultra. I rode a used 2016 this week and was amazed at how maneuverable it is. Obviously it had more power than my 96TC, and with all that extra weight. I'm on the fence, as I presume many are, whether to wait for a 2017, or just go for the 103 proven setup for about $4K less. Bike only has 1200 miles on it. I'm hoping to be able to ride a 2017 and compare the two soon. But the price difference makes the 2016 attractive, even though I'm not real excited with the red color.
In my opinion, either way you go would really be nice.
Having said that, between 2007 and 2016 or 2017 was almost 10 years. So, chances are you'll move again in 2026. With that in mind, my suggestion is for you to get what you really want and what you can afford.
I use to buy a bike every 7 years. Got a new one in 2011 Then when I saw the 2014 with the twin cam cooled and the info system, I really liked it. So, I got what I wanted. The 2017s really appeal to me, the motor is still smoother than my 2014. The electronics did not change.
Plus, I was able to see a few new 2017s at my dealership, but not the Ultras. From what I saw on line, the new Ultras don't include a CB radio. So, it looks like I will stay put for a little longer. But, if I were riding the 2011, I would go for the 2017.
Agree with Cycle7447, you should buy what you like and can afford, the MY16's will be discounted shortly and you will be able to get the color you like. On a second note, the 2016 model twin cam engines are very strong and reliable to 100K+ and the aftermarket is full of accessories and performance mods. The new M8 will be a while for the aftermarket as the exhaust is completly changed and the MOCO has made enough changes that even our old slipons won't work(inlet size on both mufflers are different), This could be from an EPA standpoint or that the MOCO is looking to sell more proprietary parts from their accessory catalog. Either way a new Road Glide Ultra is a touring dream for chewing up the miles. Ride safe and let your wallet help you decide, never pay over MSRP and when they say they are all in, go for one more cut.
Last edited by roadglider05; Aug 28, 2016 at 07:31 AM.
Test rode a RG 2017, I'm impressed. Does have some good torque and does ride a lot smoother. Just wish the touring models had the same color choices as the road glide specials and street glide specials. Come on MOCO lets get more color choices for touring models!!!!!!!!!!
So did the 2016 have any mods like slip on's, chrome ect? The 2017 will run a little stronger, a little cooler. I don't think the suspensions that much better. Thing is the 16's now old technology.
If you are going to keep the new one for a long time I would spend the extra for the new one. Nothing like breaking in the bike yourself. That said it would be scary buying a first year Harley with a new motor. Their track record is not great.
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