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As an ultra classic owner, the new changes for my model aren't enough to make me think about trading in at this time. I already have ABS and the linked brakes mean nothing to me as I already use both brakes all the time. The deletion of the bag guards is a minus for me.
I'm mixed on the fairing vent, but to me it looks less HD and more Victory. The biggest plus to me is the infotainment center, The screen looks nice and the integration of the IPOD is a plus...though I do wonder about the possibility of map updates on the GPS. The increase in power of 5 watts per channel for the stereo means absolutely nothing...you won't notice it UNLESS they reduced the amount of distortion in the unit at higher volumes...and they could have done that at the old power output.
The saddlebag lids are nice for those that can't open the bags with one hand.. I never thought it was that big of a deal to do with the old lids
the HID's are nice too....still, except for suspension, which I will address this winter, I've got my '11 UC about where I want it. Still, it's a step forward, which HD needed to do to keep pace or move further ahead of Victory and/or Indian.
Sadly, my Road King Classic now really IS a classic. I keep thinking they will reintroduce it in midyear or for 2015. Every other competitor has a leather bagged tourer. Why would H-D just concede that market share?
I can't figure out what actual changes are in this "Project Rushmore" 103 that makes it improved
Better cams, and I think they may have fiddled with the gearing ratios.
Also, on the water cooled models they upped the compression ratio, which means more power. Thats the upside of a liquid cooled engine that most...traditionalists...overlook, more compression means more heat, but if you can efficiently dissipate it, you can make more power.
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Slideshow: A standard cruiser becomes an intricate metal canvas in the hands of a Swiss custom house known for pushing Harley-Davidson platforms far beyond their factory brief.
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