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Why did HD change frame in 2009

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Old Dec 22, 2011 | 05:05 PM
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Default Why did HD change frame in 2009

I'm kinda new to the HD riders so another question. I've heard the frame changed in 09', so what is the reason for it. Are the new frames really better?
 
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Old Dec 22, 2011 | 05:08 PM
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Yes, the purpose was to improve it and increase rigidity.

Mark
 
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Old Dec 22, 2011 | 05:10 PM
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This may help you some

http://www.motorcycle.com/manufactur...iew-86648.html
 
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Old Dec 22, 2011 | 05:12 PM
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wider rear section allows wider rear tire- mostly aesthetic, but does allow dual compound dunlop tire and increased load.

simplified manufacture/welds

better motor mounting.

the previous frame was little changed from the mid 80's

the new frame is much much better.- the value of 08 and earlier bikes has suffered due to that

mike
 
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Old Dec 22, 2011 | 05:15 PM
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I heard they did it because they needed a stronger frame to make the trikes. That was the year Harley started offering trikes from the factory I think. All though I could be wrong.
 
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Old Dec 22, 2011 | 05:30 PM
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I've had the old frame and the new frame and if you ever drive around 18 wheelers, you will know it was a needed change.
 
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Old Dec 22, 2011 | 05:37 PM
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Originally Posted by harleycat225
I heard they did it because they needed a stronger frame to make the trikes. That was the year Harley started offering trikes from the factory I think. All though I could be wrong.
That is the only reason that HD would spend money to change the frame. Not to allegedly make a touring bike handle better, especially when they changed suspension settings, tire and wheels sizes and compounds that will have a much greater effect on handling as will the bike being brand new to the rider in most cases of comparison.
 
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Old Dec 22, 2011 | 05:39 PM
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Originally Posted by Texas Fat Boy
I've had the old frame and the new frame and if you ever drive around 18 wheelers, you will know it was a needed change.
How so?
 
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Old Dec 22, 2011 | 05:53 PM
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Originally Posted by harleycat225
I heard they did it because they needed a stronger frame to make the trikes. That was the year Harley started offering trikes from the factory I think. All though I could be wrong.
I heard it was to accommodate liquid cooling.
 
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Old Dec 22, 2011 | 05:57 PM
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Originally Posted by qtrracer
That is the only reason that HD would spend money to change the frame. Not to allegedly make a touring bike handle better, especially when they changed suspension settings, tire and wheels sizes and compounds that will have a much greater effect on handling as will the bike being brand new to the rider in most cases of comparison.
you know...some people can't stop complaining. You hand them a million dollars, they'd start complaining that the bills weren't all facing the same way and some of them were crinkled around the edges and with inflation being what it is, and taxes...it's barely worth the effort....
 
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