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Saw an ad on CL for an 08 EGC. Looked good in the pics, low miles, priced where it should be. But then I remembered some chat on here about the 08s being a "one off" year. Kind of a transition from the old frame bikes to the new frame bikes. But there were other things about the 08s that I cant recall, TBW, smaller tank? Something along those lines. Can someone refresh my memory?
I have an 08 ultra. I haven't had trouble. It is TBW, mine works great. 6 gallon tank on mine. If you are looking for some things it can get confusing. Seats especially. Some sites will list 08-13 and some say 09 and up. Other than that no issues for me.
Now you are going to get snowballed with replies of people telling you not to buy anything older than 09 because of the new frame. but unless you have ridden both in comparison will your butt be able to discern the difference? I have ridden mine for 3 years and have ridden my buddy's 14 S glide and I can't tell the difference in the frame.
I have an 08 UC with 43K on it. TBW and 6 gal tank. Only issue has been limited to replacing clutch cable and rear brake switch. I've ridden a 2013 and a 2017 and i've been unable to distinguish any noticeable difference. (Maybe because I'm 72 y.o. and can't remember ####.)
I think that's one reason the 2008 and earlier sell at a slight discount. That's not to say a 2008 and earlier bike isn't perfectly fine (as other have shared). It's just not 'state of art' technology.
I assume the bikes listed in your sig line are just ones that you previously owned, excepting the 09 FLHRC. If you still own them all, you dont need the 08 anyway!
Nowt wrong with an 08. Great ride, but is an odd, one off year as there was a slight frame change to the existing long time frame to accommodate the first year of the 6 gallon tank and then the frame changed completely in 09. First year of Brembo brakes, 6 gal tank, and TBW. Im keepin mine.
While I am no surprised many harley riders cannot tell a difference between an 08 and a 14, there is a big difference in power, ride, handling, braking, storage, wind protection, infotainment... I am now happy enough (after many changes) with my 09 but a 14 is better and an 18 better yet. If I was going pre 09 it would be an 02 with a carb or a knucklehead. 07-08 are tweeners I will always pass on...
My '08 Glide has given me over 109,000 miles of fun, so far, and still runs good. Stage one only, to keep it dependable. Does everything I've ever asked of it. I do like the 6 gallon tank, and the Brembo brakes. TBW is ok. I'll be keeping it.
Another happy 08 owner here with over 126,000 miles. Engine rebuilt at 112,000 just cause I could afford it at the time. I'm also lucky enough to have two Harleys. I have an 08 Road King Classic and a 13 Limited. The difference in the frames is not a noticeable enough difference to worry about in my opinion. With only a few minor exceptions, most accessories after 09 will fit the 08.
If you like the 08 you are looking at and it's priced right, don't hesitate. Yes, you can pay a little more and get the new frame, pay a little more and get a 103, pay a little more and get a Rush more, pay a little more and get an M8, but don't hesitate on the 08 just because of the year model if it calls to you, in good condition, and is priced right.
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