A question regarding the 2009+ frames
Thread Starter
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Intermediate
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 49
Likes: 0
From: Chicago 'Burbs & Tomahawk, WI
A question regarding the 2009+ frames
Been a lurker here for awhile and am thinking about upgrading from an 1996 RK to a 2009+ Ultra. Hoping to do some longer distance riding.
I've seen infrequent mention of frame issues (elsewhere on the internet) with the newer frame, but nothing more than one-liners with little detail. Most reviews are very positive (other than engine-heat issues), but I'm looking for feedback from riders with more mileage on their uber-scooters' frames, etc.
- Has there been any issues with this frame redesign (cracking, etc)?
- Any area to inspect for wear issues, etc?
Couldn't find anything here using the search function in the frame-specific area or this sub-section, so I wanted to start a topic for any advice while looking at used 2009+ Ultras.
I have researched costs of the larger multi-thread rear tire and it is much more expensive, but I figure the additional GVW and longer tire life would offset that cost.
Thanks (in advance) for any advice/info,
Dan
I've seen infrequent mention of frame issues (elsewhere on the internet) with the newer frame, but nothing more than one-liners with little detail. Most reviews are very positive (other than engine-heat issues), but I'm looking for feedback from riders with more mileage on their uber-scooters' frames, etc.
- Has there been any issues with this frame redesign (cracking, etc)?
- Any area to inspect for wear issues, etc?
Couldn't find anything here using the search function in the frame-specific area or this sub-section, so I wanted to start a topic for any advice while looking at used 2009+ Ultras.
I have researched costs of the larger multi-thread rear tire and it is much more expensive, but I figure the additional GVW and longer tire life would offset that cost.
Thanks (in advance) for any advice/info,
Dan
Cruiser
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 156
Likes: 0
From: Squamish, BC, Canada
Bought my '09 Electra Glide Classic new this past spring and have put over 25,000 kilometres on it (15,560 miles), love the new frame. No issues, not bad things at all, just way better handling and control and ride. Stock seat not good, too wide and high but thats easy to change. As for the new tires, rear 407 giving very good milage, still has over 4 mil of usable tread but it is badly cupped and therefore wines loudly. Front 408 doing well. Engine heat only an issue if you get stuck in traffic that is not moving for extended periods. Loved every kilometre I've put on the bike. Hate the though of putting her away for the winter.
Road Master
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 765
Likes: 4
From: LI, and New York, NY -- N 40 44.985 W 73 00.910
2010 FLHTCU - EG Ultra
20,000 miles since January.
I rode cross country and back, NY - Chitown - rt 66 to Santa Monica - back through Vegas and the Rockies - down through Tennessee and Carolinas and up the East Coast.... Stock. All I changed was move the floorboards out 1", and a shorter recurve windshield. changed seat out for the midyear low seat for 125.00.
Tracked like a rice rocket through the mountains. bike holds corners like a rice rocket, but still feels like a substantial machine under you.
Had to add fuel additive at higher elevations, and out west in the low octane states.
almost 19,000 miles on front and rear stock tires, and replaced before wear indicators.
no real issues.
warped front rotor - warranty
stuck brake pad pin rear - warranty
hope that helps.
20,000 miles since January.
I rode cross country and back, NY - Chitown - rt 66 to Santa Monica - back through Vegas and the Rockies - down through Tennessee and Carolinas and up the East Coast.... Stock. All I changed was move the floorboards out 1", and a shorter recurve windshield. changed seat out for the midyear low seat for 125.00.
Tracked like a rice rocket through the mountains. bike holds corners like a rice rocket, but still feels like a substantial machine under you.
Had to add fuel additive at higher elevations, and out west in the low octane states.
almost 19,000 miles on front and rear stock tires, and replaced before wear indicators.
no real issues.
warped front rotor - warranty
stuck brake pad pin rear - warranty
hope that helps.
Road Master
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 932
Likes: 0
I've seen infrequent mention of frame issues (elsewhere on the internet) with the newer frame, but nothing more than one-liners with little detail. Most reviews are very positive (other than engine-heat issues), but I'm looking for feedback from riders with more mileage on their uber-scooters' frames, etc.
Nope.
The edges of your floorboards and pipes - yeah, they corner a LOT better.
Yes, the improved life and performance makes you ignore the slightly added cost. You can put a Metzler on it too if you like.
You're welcome
Last edited by honorsdaddy; Nov 8, 2010 at 12:26 PM.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 2,313
Likes: 5
they are great but the tab on the front engine guard at the top where mounts is very thin metal. it dont take much to put a tear in it. ask me how i know thats only thing which isnt much but it can happen. good luck on your choice and ride safe.
Road Captain
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 569
Likes: 7
From: Massachusetts
like the ride of the new frame over my '05 RK,No issues here, but not a fan of the dunlop rear tire. Changing out this winter for a Avon or Metzeler
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Thread Starter
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Intermediate
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 49
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From: Chicago 'Burbs & Tomahawk, WI
Thanks for all the good feedback!
I sort of thought the few snipes at the frame redesign were pretty much unfounded, but you folks are making me lust for a newer HD even more.
I like honorsdaddy comment "The edges of your floorboards and pipes - yeah, they corner a LOT better." Sounds like fun can still be found on a bagger...
I sort of thought the few snipes at the frame redesign were pretty much unfounded, but you folks are making me lust for a newer HD even more.
I like honorsdaddy comment "The edges of your floorboards and pipes - yeah, they corner a LOT better." Sounds like fun can still be found on a bagger...
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Elite HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 3,698
Likes: 11
From: Longview, Washington
I installed a rear stabilizer on my 07 and it made a very positive change in the handling. Thought I had everything dialed in perfectly . . .
until I test rode a 2011.
The 11 is much mored stable in the corners. I especially notice the difference when I'm loaded down. I ride 2up most of the time and we travel so we pretty much max out the load rating. Bike is still solid even with all the weight toward the back.
I love the Road Glide Ultra especially with the 103.
until I test rode a 2011.
The 11 is much mored stable in the corners. I especially notice the difference when I'm loaded down. I ride 2up most of the time and we travel so we pretty much max out the load rating. Bike is still solid even with all the weight toward the back.
I love the Road Glide Ultra especially with the 103.