When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
I enjoy my SGS because of its handling, and currently would not trade it for an ultra.
I used to take cross country trips now I do not anymore. I could ride my SGS cross country, but honestly, I would prefer greatly an ultra based on several demo rides I have taken. Sports car vs. luxury car
If you really still take long/touring rides I would buy the Ultra.
Another key difference is the SGS/RGS has a 19" front wheel and the Ultra's is 17". I have an Ultra and although I hate the look of my front end (fat fender, fat tire, etc) vs the sleek SGS/RGS (slim fender, larger wheel, low profile tire, etc), the smoother ride of the Ultra can't be beat especially on roads that are less than smooooth.
I went the other way. Had a SG, went into the dealer planning on buying the SGS and walked (drove) out on a new Ultra Limited. Never looked back, they threw in the detachable kit and I have the best of both worlds. In my opinion, I have the best of both worlds.
I have been riding a Ultra Limited for a few years, and I love the bike. I do allot of long rides and the bike is great, no real complaints. So a few weeks ago, my son buys a new SGS and of course I had to ride it. WOW is that a nice bike. The 100LBS in weight reduction from his to mine are sure noticeable, SGS? I figured I would need a Tour pak, so I could invest in the removable one. Other than the very obvious things, heated grips and lower fairings, e a what am I missing? Would this be a mistake? Anyone make this switch? As i mention I do like the long rides, I have done several Iron Butt rides and have a 48 State ride planned for August. Is this a mistake?
I'm currently on a 2013 SG, love the bike! It is the best handling bike I have ever owned........but I came off a couple different Fatboys. Not exactly the best handling Harleys on the road. I'm not a big guy (5'8"-150) so a Limited is too heavy for me.
I rented a SG before I bought one and realized that it was worth the switch. BTW last fall some friends and I rode from Key West Florida to Chattanooga Tennessee in one day so for me the comfort is a non-issue.....900 mile day no problem.
Have you ridden a Rushmore Limited? The new frt end on the Rushmores make them feel much lighter when on the road.
I had a SGS for 8 months and 18,000 miles. I thought it might be nice to have a SGS with lowers and a tour box. I bought a Ultra. I believe the Ultra will out handle the SGS, especially after I get rid of the funky air shocks.
I ride a bike, I don't sit around and look at it. Sitting on the seat they both look the same. They both look good on the road! Buy whatever flips your switch. Life is short.
7 Surprising Harley-Davidson Products that Are Not Motorcycles
Slideshow: The bar-and-shield logo shows up on far more than motorcycles, some of the company's most unexpected products have nothing to do with riding.
Slideshow: From the troubled AMF years to modern misfires, these bikes earned reputations for reliability issues, questionable engineering, or disappointing performance.
Crazy Bunderbike Build Looks Amazing, But Is It Impossible to Ride?
Slideshow: The Swiss custom shop has taken a Harley Softail and stretched it into something so long and low that it looks closer to a rolling sculpture than a conventional motorcycle.
Engraved Rebellion: Inside Bundnerbike's Glam Rock II
Slideshow: A standard cruiser becomes an intricate metal canvas in the hands of a Swiss custom house known for pushing Harley-Davidson platforms far beyond their factory brief.
Slideshow: Harley-Davidson's challenges aren't abstract; they show up in dropping shipments, shrinking dealer traffic, and strategic decisions that aren't yet translating into growth.