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Here is an idea. See how much your monthly payment will be then take that money every month and put it away in a separate savings account when you feel comfortable with what you have in there for a large down payment or to even pay cash for a new one. Until then keep riding the RK at least you won't have the monthly payment to worry about if a rainy day ever comes.
Wise man here. I'll second this motion. In my case, I've ridden the new ones but I still am quite happy with my 2005 RK - got everything set up just the way I like it and I hate to think about starting over, but that's just me.
Rucker...I believe the new frames started in 09, not 10.
OP... why would you want a street glide? You should rent a street glide for a day, then rent an ultra limited for a day. I know which one you will purchase if you do that.
I had an 04 Road King (fuel injected) that was paid off. I really like it. I rode a 13 limited and that was a very easy decision for me. The longer frame, larger motor, and 6 speed sealed the deal. I just made my 8th check out to Harley and have 0 regrets!
Here is an idea. See how much your monthly payment will be then take that money every month and put it away in a separate savings account when you feel comfortable with what you have in there for a large down payment or to even pay cash for a new one. Until then keep riding the RK at least you won't have the monthly payment to worry about if a rainy day ever comes.
Hear! Hear!
And my friends think I'm crazy to not have a car/truck/bike payment! Because that's exactly how I paid for each. Continue the 'payment' until they are ridden into the ground...then comes the replacement! Car/truck are both 2002, bike is 2006...still running!
Whatever you do, DON'T spend all of your savings or get a payment you cant handle comfortably. The last thing you want is regret lurking in the back of your mind ruining what is supposed to be a great time!
No one can decide that but you. How much do you like your current bike and has it been reliable? Is the frame change worth it? Do you want another monthly payment and start from scratch with all the mods? I suggest if you are on the fence and really thinking about doing this, as suggested above, go rent one of each SG and Ultra for a day, once you ride both then decide. Lemme tell you in advance, welcome to TEAM BATWING, lol. If you are gonna do it, get an Ultra, you are gonna end up there eventually. My .02. Good luck with whatever decision you make.
What are your plans? Long trips for days at a time or short one nighters? Short go with SG long go EG. Simple one has more room to store your things for longer trips.
I have decided to leave my tour pak on full time now. While in Ohio for bike week I just about ran out of room in my saddle bags and we were only going for the day. Was wishing I had the TP the first ride we took.
You will get tons of opinions from us but your decision needs to be based on YOUR wants and needs.
One more thing your bike is payed for so you have time to save and shop. Hell make a plan for the next 2yrs. to have enough to buy a new one. I'm happy with my 04 and have started saving to build my custom.
Don't post very often but I've been a member for years. My problem is that I could get a 2013 street glide with a monthly payment or keep my 2005 Road king classic with only 30k miles that's paid off. Is there really that big of a difference in the newer frame to justify the cost? What do you guys think?
Nope, not for a frame change. You are on the way to nurturing, babying, loving and caring for a vintage Harley Motorcycle from the year 2005. Don't blow it or if you do buy the new one, don't do it for the frame AND don't trade in the 05. Just make the payments and if you don't like the new one sell the new one.
Don't buy new IMHO, look for a slightly used garage queen build after 2009 (new frame) with thousands of dollars worth of add-ons, and sell yours private party. You will be way ahead.
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