Don't forget the improved suspension and the anti-chatter gear thing in the trans. Not big deals, but noticeable.

I would wait until the 18 models drop for sure. Right around the corner... supposed to be a frame change and maybe more. Who knows.

 

thanks for all the input guys. I'm not sure what I'll be doing but it sounds like the new M8 is the way to go with the new suspension. time will tell. If they put a new one in Amber Whiskey its game over haha

 

One thing to consider is if you want to modify the bike. 17 and later HD is getting very picky about mods. If it's aftermarket they may limit or cancel the warranty all together.

So the question is would you be happy leaving it stock? If yes the 17 or even the 18 would be a good choice.

 

My '15 Limited is everything I want or need. No interest whatsoever in that new 4-valve engine in a bike that costs more and comes with less stuff.

If I had waited till now to buy a bike, it would be a leftover '16 Limited at a big discount - no question.

 

There are always mods in mind as far as performance. I have Head Quarters cams in my 04 Road King and have been eyeing their 113" kit but want a Road Glide. The mods wont come right away due to the fact the my money tree has wilted in the back yard haha but eventually they would happen on whatever I choose.

 

I've test ridden all of the touring bikes with the M8. When I rode them, I could feel the extra power. But then I got on my '15 SGS to go home, and didn't feel like I was going backwards. If I were in your current situation, I'd go for the newer bike with the M8 ... BUT ..... I'd wait to see if there will be changes for 2018. Don't worry about missing the deal on the used 2016 because there are a glut of HD's on the market and when the 2018's come out, there will be more..... as well as used 2017's.

 

Yeah I am in no rush. I am just not sure which direction to go. I like the new Olive Gold color to but it may be a one and done color as HD likes to do haha but maybe I could pick a used one up in a year or two. I am just looking to get as much info as I can from others as to their opinions until I get the chance to test ride and feel them for myself.

 

good question. depends on the costs. nothing wrong with the pre '17's. i rode both, with eyes closed I could not tell the dif except that the '17's felt a little faster. not your problem due to your proposed engine upgrade.
I prefer the 'a' non-balancer engine myself. JMO

 

Interesting question! I have owned a number of H.D. touring models which I enjoyed all of them. I have a 2015 Limited with 24000 trouble free miles which in my opinion the best of all of them. I suspect the 2017 is an improvement of the breed, how much I am not sure. I rode a 2017 Limited which I frankly did not feel that big a difference. I have heard of some interesting rumors concerning the 2018 models; which if I was contemplating a new bike I believe I would wait for too see. Good luck on your decision.

 

Ride em back to back, and see what you think, you are the only one that could really answer the question, but it's nice to hear other opinions