07/08 glides
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 2,034
Likes: 127
I will throw in with the camp that says get a 2009 and up bike. If you own a pre 09 bike that is fine, nobody is hammering on them. The fact is that beginning in 2009 there were so many improvements in the frame, tires, wheels, shocks and exhaust that it is a vastly improved product. We all know that the MOCO is not widely known for making product improvements very swiftly. Sometimes it can be 5-10 years before they fix something that has been a well known problem for owners. So when they roll out an improvement it is usually warranted. Such was the 2009 model year in touring bikes.
Road Captain
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 506
Likes: 14
From: sacramento, ca
I have an 07 streetglide and bought it new at the end of 06. I was coming from a 2000 softail standard. I have done intake, pipes, cams, and a lot of other custom stuff. The question was whether 07-08 glides were worth it and what problems. I have had a few small oil leaks that were all covered under warranty. Everybody always bashes these two years because of the improvements that were made afterward. If you look at purchases that way, then never buy. Something will always be better. I love my flhx and think it rides as good as anything I have ever ridden. It all comes down to what you can afford and what makes you happy. Sure, I would love to have a new bike. I am a teacher and have to live within my means. With that said, I am proud and lucky to have what I have in a bike. It makes me happy and I can't see myself ever living without a bike. Buy what you like and what makes you happy.
Road Warrior
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 1,441
Likes: 48
From: Eastern N.C.
07 st. glide. 61,618 bought it used 21,... miles. stage one. tires and brakes and tires,and tires. one problem with idle-turned out something in the gas tank. I happen to like the fact that the throttle is a cable. gives perfect response no lag time for electronics that I've only heard of. 6th gear I don't need it until I hit 70. I've got 5 other gears to do what I want. 6 gal. tank. I don't need that extra weight up high above to balance. I'm a light wt. I've never ridden an 09 so I don't know how much better it rides. I do know that a differant tire brand on the back made a hell of differance with (for the good) my glide. I love the bike, do I wish-- sure I do. mine is mine. no payments. buy what and you like and can afford. It won't hurt as bad when its sitting in the garage during cold weather but you and the misses can still go out for dinner because that damn bike is'nt taking all the money.
dang, sorry, I think thats the most I've ever said. hehe
good luck and enjoy! kroozeabout.
dang, sorry, I think thats the most I've ever said. hehe
good luck and enjoy! kroozeabout.
Road Warrior
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 1,510
Likes: 23
From: Connecticut
I've got an '07 Road Glide which I picked up used in 2011 with 7,400 miles.
No extensive modifications to the engine -- has a Screamin' Eagle air cleaner and a Power Commander USB, stock pipes, stock cams.
The rear sprocket on the '07's is upgradeable to the cushioned sprocket that was introduced on the 2008 models, and I had that done.
Other than that, it's been fine. I'm an "easy rider" and don't push it hard.
It's got 53,000 on it now.
I actually prefer the older-style wheels with same-size tires and the higher suspension. I think it's about 40-50lbs. lighter than the '08-present bikes with the heavier rear end.
No extensive modifications to the engine -- has a Screamin' Eagle air cleaner and a Power Commander USB, stock pipes, stock cams.
The rear sprocket on the '07's is upgradeable to the cushioned sprocket that was introduced on the 2008 models, and I had that done.
Other than that, it's been fine. I'm an "easy rider" and don't push it hard.
It's got 53,000 on it now.
I actually prefer the older-style wheels with same-size tires and the higher suspension. I think it's about 40-50lbs. lighter than the '08-present bikes with the heavier rear end.
Road Master
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 908
Likes: 96
From: Red Deer, AB
I have an 07 Road King. Same bike from the head stock back. No issues in 50,000 miles other than cracked y pipes. Next time it breaks I'm ready with a 2 into 1 exhaust. Tires are way cheaper than 09 up. 6th gear is useless under 75 mph. Drive by cable for the throttle and clutch. Ask the guys with the newer bikes that have the drive by wire and hydraulic clutches how many failures they have. Easy to go 200 miles on a tank. 08 and up can go 250. 09 and up have a wider more expensive tire and a new frame design that people rave about as being cutting edge. It's not. An 84 Ninja would leave any Harley behind in the canyons if that's what you're into. Sure I'm bias because my old bike is an earlier design. But it's paid for and easier to work on in my opinion so I'm keeping it for a few more years. A couple of positives for the new bikes are the linked brakes and the fact that 07 and 08 are sometimes difficult to find certain parts for. Buy what you can afford. Ride an 07 and an 09 and up. Only you can tell if you notice a difference in ride quality.
Tourer
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 300
Likes: 0
From: Everett, WA
'08 SG...love it, but had I done my research I'd have probably looked for an '09 or newer. Like multiple posters have stated, if you can get a killer deal on an '08 like I did, do it. Otherwise, the changes in '09 make for a better bike overall.
Cruiser
Joined: Jul 2011
Posts: 114
Likes: 2
From: vancouver, bc
I had an 07 Road King, now have a 2010 Street Glide. My wife rides an 08 Street Glide. The 08 is a much much nicer bike to ride than the 07. Better brakes, smoother ride, better cruise control, bigger tank, and it just feels so much better. I feel the difference from the 07 to the 08 is far greater than the difference between the 08 and the 10. I really can't say there is a huge difference in the way my wife's bike feels compared to mine. I do prefer the gearing on my bike. I would say if an 08 is a couple grand cheaper its not a bad deal to go for that over an 09.
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Road Warrior
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 1,759
Likes: 153
From: On a Large Sandbar, NY
08,..I had no issues...gearing is an easy fix with 30T trans sprocket...its also a bit lighter than the newer models. As other have stated, do your research and buy what best fits your budget.
