I'm looking at getting a used ultra and have found 3
2002 with 15k miles for $10.4k, rear speakers don't work (big deal) more than
likely the wires got pinched.
2002 with 4k miles for $12k obo
These two are in great shape, at least body wise.
Then the wife showed me this one too,
2009 with 36k miles for 15k

I am very handy with tools, been wrenching on all of my vehicles, bike, cars
and my trucks.

What one would you think about?

 

The 2009 hands down. Ride one of the new frames vs the old and you will then know for yourself. I own both and the 2010 is by far a better riding and handling bike. Just my 2 cents worth.

 

Aside from creature comforts, there are 3 things that stick out like a sore thumb here.

• the 09 = 96CI vs 88CI
• the frame modification to the 09 model makes for a more comfortable ride
• the rear tire is wider on the 09. more rubber on the road = better traction and stability IMO but comes at a higher price when needing to be replaced.

the rest of it is all cosmetic sir.

 

The 2009 is your best buy, it's just as hard on a bike to just sit around & not be ridden, 1300 & 375 miles per year are garage queens, but often times maintenance is neglected, tires probably old & cracked & who knows what else. I'd much rather have a newer bike that was ridden & properly taken care of, on top of the above mentioned reasons.

 

I think the decision for me would come down to price. If money is no object I would go with the 2009. If money is a concern I would go with one of the older scoots because it will leave more coin in your pocket for upgrades and customization.

 

Just for reference, I bought a 2003 Electra Glide Classic POE last July for 10K. Had SE stage one, no other mods, few cosmetic add ons, 14K miles. Guy was a LEO about ready to retire, he rode for the dept so he said he was never really up to riding much on his. Front tire was original, had to replace tires..thats about it. Had the bike maintained all the time. To me, with my money, I got a great deal!

 

2002 is the last year with a forged crank, and the Timken bearing, so it is a solid engine. Will need an upgrade on the cam chain tensioner. Many threads on that. I bought an 03 with 2k on it in 2011. Was mint condition. I did put new tires on it, but have had no problems, 2 years/17k miles later.

To me the only reason to get a newer bike is the ABS, or if you cruise over 80 mph. I have the 88, with a stage one upgrade. At 75 I am running 3200 rpm which is sweet.
Black Book Powersports:


Year: 2002
Make: Harley-Davidson
Model: FLHTCUI Ultra Classic EG
Model Type: Cruiser
Displacement: 1450
Cylinders: 2
Finance Advance: $8,110
MSRP: $19,185
Avg Retail: $11,140
Auction Wholesale $8,935
Clean Trade: $8,255
Fair Trade: $6,795


I wouldn't sell my bike for BBP price, so just use as a guide.

 

Don't forget that extra gear. 80 MPH on the highway is just easier.

 

There were some problems with the early '09s from what I've read on here, but later on in the year problems were addressed.
The '02 was the last year for the good cranks. If you're wanting to do any cam work you'll have the good crank as far as runout.

Love the newer frame. I had a '03 and got a '12 last year. I couldn't believe the difference in the ride/handling.

 

Where are you located windowman?