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There should be no problem finding a nice lightly used 2009/10 maybe even 11 Ultra Classic for 18k.
I bought a used Pit Bull lift from a local who is getting out of riding. He also had a beautiful 2008 Ultra with ABS, 7000 miles (and allot of extras) for $15.6K. That is allot of bike for the money.
A few more items on the Ultra over the EGC. The EGC is still a damn good buy. The EGC doesn't have the CB or intercom, which I think is useless anyway. The Ultra has a few more doo dads like rear speakers and what others have already mentioned. Make sure you test ride a few. My wife didn't like the tour pack, she felt too cramped and confined. That's why we ended up with the Road King. Good luck, lots of low mileage used bikes out there.
The MSRP on a 2012 Electra Glide Classic is about $19,400. If you want and intercom and lowers (the lowers are great, you'll love having them!) then go with an EG Ultra. You can find a lightly used FLHTCUI in your price range no problem.
Most women LOVE the tourpack backrest, despite KCFLHRC's wife's dislike of it. She is the exception. If you tour a lot with your wife, then the intercom is a nice thing to have.
Another option is the Road Glide Ultra. It is the same bike as the EGU but with a fixed fairing rather than the batwing.
I bought a used Pit Bull lift from a local who is getting out of riding. He also had a beautiful 2008 Ultra with ABS, 7000 miles (and allot of extras) for $15.6K. That is allot of bike for the money.
Ultra Classic hands down, given your reasons for want. My wife swore she was going to do more riding, alas that didn't happen, but for 2 up can't beat the Ultra with lowers, intercom (CB is damn near worthless) King tour pak with lighting is great. For your price range I see no reasons you can't get what you want.
Take off what you don't want from the ultra, for me it was those ugly wheel bumpers.
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