'09 model comments?
Road Captain
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 601
Likes: 109
From: San Diego
I looked at a 09 Ultra yesterday, the wheels are different but nice. The rear fender looks wide to cover the fat new tire, and the exhaust is also different. Overall it looks like we'll have to wait for overall reliability issues to pop up. I don't think there is anything really different mechanically overall, or am I missing something?
Now if say the 09s were to have new water cooled engines, bigger displacement, add'll computer module--the "change" landscape becomes a major factor--as "moving" mechanical has higher failure rates--so to speak. The MoCo is smart though as they will not do a lot of changes in one shot--marketing wise and support/warrantee issues. They wil need to be able to manage the 09 bugs, the 08s, 07s...and the prior model releases.
- DC
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 2,107
Likes: 283
From: California, Md now Savannah, Ga
Based on what some new owners are saying the new gearing on the 09 seems to be a big improvement. Supposed it makes using 6th smoother at a lower speed and the gearing also gives 1st and 2nd more torque.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 3,116
Likes: 0
From: Glendale, AZ.
I looked at the '09's for the first time last weekend and I liked the look of the new wheels which are nicer looking then the ones on my '06 RK but I don't think I'll be trading for one anytime soon. I like my '06 just fine. 
Road Master
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 1,086
Likes: 2
From: MKE, WI
T
Road Master
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 1,086
Likes: 2
From: MKE, WI
The "Frame" is a big, big change--statically speaking. I guess from an engineering design stand point, it has less moving parts, and no onboard computer to "babysit" it. In other words, it either works, or it doesnt (handling wise). Us 09 buyers will have to wait and see how good this frame handles when fully loaded to manufacturer specs. After all, AIM stated "the MoCo saw how we loaded our bikes during the 2003 anniversary celebration--and hence--newer stronger frame".
Now if say the 09s were to have new water cooled engines, bigger displacement, add'll computer module--the "change" landscape becomes a major factor--as "moving" mechanical has higher failure rates--so to speak. The MoCo is smart though as they will not do a lot of changes in one shot--marketing wise and support/warrantee issues. They wil need to be able to manage the 09 bugs, the 08s, 07s...and the prior model releases.
- DC
Now if say the 09s were to have new water cooled engines, bigger displacement, add'll computer module--the "change" landscape becomes a major factor--as "moving" mechanical has higher failure rates--so to speak. The MoCo is smart though as they will not do a lot of changes in one shot--marketing wise and support/warrantee issues. They wil need to be able to manage the 09 bugs, the 08s, 07s...and the prior model releases.
- DC
I'm sure as anything that is "new" we will see some issues or recalls. It's all part of it.T
Road Master
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 878
Likes: 0
From: Cistern,Tx
I have 400+ on the Ultra and so far my only complaint is the damn valve stems on the new wheels there a pain in the *** to get a air chuck on but I will get use to them. I did not like them when I first saw pictures of the rims but seeing them on a bike in person I like them. The lower gearing is a 10+ to me. Take off is a big improvement and cruising. Big improvement in the handling. And for being stock it pulls strong. Transmission is quieter than the others I have even after I changed tranny oil to Amsoil or Redline. Brakes are a improvement. Less heat from the new exhaust design but the ole never bothered me. I have said it before it is a air cooled engine and your setting right above a head. Sets a little higher but I will get use to it.
