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I have an 08. Needs 2 teeth on rear pulley(09's have it) Needs new rear shocks, they all need 'em. I did motor mods, they all need that. I did a true-track and I ride a '14 a lot and in my opinion the '14 needs a true track too. I wouldn't worry, get the best deal on a bike you like.
I agree....but I'm prejudice. Every year they come out with something better. Still a lot of old bikes out there and people enjoying them. find one you like with a good price an buy it!
I have an 08 SG. ~65k miles Love it, but it does come with some issues. TBW has given me some trouble, as did the rear shocks. My Tranny loves to chew through bearings (3rd set). My buddy has an 07, they have crank issues and he's living that fun scenario now.
I put on a true track and haven't yet experienced the frame wobble. If you can get an 09, the frame alone is worth the extra $$, along with the other improvements
But that said, its your budget, and if its the colour and look you want then go for it. They all have some issues.
08 here, been solid for me. Compensator has been done and a true track added so no death wobble with that. Overall been a real solid motor as far as mine has been concerned. Can it use more power...yeah...I think everyone wants that! Have had no issues regarding the TBW. Buy what you can afford or get the best deal on and enjoy the ride!
07 here, over the years upgraded the comp,chain adj,68t rear sprocket w/ids,true track,f/r suspention,fl rotors.. this mades a big difference so find out what the previous owner did?
cable throttle and good tire bearings,good lifters,a lot of pre 07 parts make them probably ezer to work on. Your ability to wrench and budget big variable. If your the kind of person that will tear a bike down and rebuild it no sweat and can negotiate an unbelievable price ?
Id listen to the primary side idling in neutral with the clutch in and out for any dragging sounds.Id ask if fuel filter and hoses where changed(im doing that now as preventative).
my 07 runs smooth at 55k miles with a mild stage 4,original bushings,tire bearings.
08 with 50k stage 1. Only Warranty/ESP claim was an IPB at 40k. While primary was off, measured thickness of spring pack and out of spec so covered that as well. Stock compensator still fine.
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