Buying shortly, been told the pros and cons of 2008 vs 2009 vs 2010. Aside from the usually newer is better hoping for a bit more info on the changes between the years. Was a new frame in 08 and my budget allows which is why that's where I started but I can afford to stretch to slightly newer 09 or 10.

Any thoughts on these three years please.

 

09 is the new frame.

the 49 State versions of the 09 had no cat in the header ( California and Int'l models do if you are in NZ)

2010's are also subject to stricter emissions controls and "tampering" regulations- in the USA.

if you want to track model year changes yourself, google

20XX model year technical forum

and you should find the dealer introduction docs for each model year, and you can see what changed from year to year

I have an 09- it is great

mike

 

Many good things in an '08 but the new frame in the '09 is a huge upgrade.

 

If you can swing it get a 9 or newer pretty big upgrade with frame and bigger tire. I love my 09.

 

I didn't like the ride of the '09s and up's new frame and larger tires when I test rode 'em,didn't like the less responsive " stiffer grounded" ride.Grabbed an '08 FLHTCU while I could,glad I did.

 

Sometimes you can find a good deal on a 10 or 11 limited. You get a lot of upgrades with them if ABS, heated grips, security, 103 motor is stuff you like. But I wouldn't pass up a good deal on a 09 though.

 

2009 marked a big "change" but I'm not sure I'd call it an "upgrade". Keep in mind that 2008 was a "odd" year as it had a bigger tank, but won't utilize 2009 up seats, nor will 97-07 seats fit. Not a big deal, but may be an issue at some point. I like the more balanced handling of the similar sized tires on the 08 and earlier bikes. Some like the wide rear of the 09 and newer bikes. If you think the 13 and previous bikes are getting cheap, price the 08 and older ones. The pack mentality that says the 08 and older ones are dangerously flawed has driven the price down substantially. If I were looking for a replacement bike, it would be a 2005 cherry se Electra glide. Custom paint, tons of Chrome, and a 103 standard.

 

Your rear tire life will be at least twice as long with an 2009 vs the 2008. I never got to 4k with the old rear tire, now I am getting 8k on my 2011. Many who ride easier than me are getting well over 10k. That adds up over time.

 

Not true........I have an 08 and get 13k out of a rear mostly two up. I have a friend that gets about the same out of a rear on his 13

 

I love my '09 Ultra and as far as the rear tire life I run the Dunlop American Elite and the last one I got 14k out of it.