I have been thinking about trading up from my 2007 street glide( without abs brakes) to a 2014 or 2015 ultra classic.I really like my street glide but I have been reading about a lot of great improvements on the new bikes but also hear of a lot of problems. Those of you that have made the plunge, was it worth it and would you do it again. Pro's and con's? would you recommend trading up? Thanks for your input!
Oh, Not sure what a Rushmore model is. Does that pertain to all the new bikes or something you have to special order. Thanks again and happy riding!

 

The "Rushmore" guys are going to tell you that they are the best thing since sliced bread and "night and day" from the older bikes. I have ridden both (one actually lives in my garage) and they are marginally better but not "night and day"...Before anyone accuses me of sour grapes, that's not the case at all. I am just honest...

 

I've got an 07 SG and am not interested in a new one at this time. I've chased technology on other things in my life and found that rarely it's worth the extra bucks. If you want a warranty then going new is a plus. If it's performance that can be upgraded to include brakes, alarms etc.

 

Rushmore denotes those bikes that have water cooling the exhaust ports. The Limited, Trike, CVO limited. Linked braking is also a new item. Read more HERE. 2015's are not out yet.

Lots of upgrades even on the 09-13 models before the new water cooled bikes of '14. There is a whole rushmore section HERE where you can find out all the issues that the new models have had as well as the fixes.

That being said I think it would be more than worth to go to the local dealer and check out the new lineup and see what you think in person. Heck rent one!

 

You should read the article you posted.

"Project RUSHMORE bikes pass faster, stop quicker and see farther at night, thus inspiring rider confidence. Each model features the new Twin-Cooled™ High Output Twin Cam 103™ or the High Output Twin Cam 103™ powertrain – both with fuel injection, Reflex™ Linked Brakes with ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System), and Daymaker™ LED and Dual Halogen lighting."

the water cooling is only part of project rushmore - the non water cooled are included as well.

 

What will a new one do that the old one won't when you consider the important things? That is, you...the bike...and the road. In my opinion, you can make some important upgrades to yours for a WHOLE lot less than buying a new bike. The new ones, although very nice, have nothing that enhances my experience. If you think that they will and they're worth the money, go for it. If they don't, then show some loyalty to your old friend.

 

best to demo one and make up your mind. don't see many rushmore buyers returning them. If you are going to grade up, the 14's are a great time to do it as the improvements are substantial. Just my Opinion.
I like all Harley's past and present. Just depends one what you like.

 

I'd demo or rent one. Then look at the dollar difference. Your 07 is the last year of cable driven fuel injected touring bikes, if that is of any importance to you. I'd think long and hard before succumbing to the allure of a new bike. I wouldn't trade my 08 for any new HD.

 

Sure I have an 07 SG it would be nice to go with a new SGS or such but I"m sure you have your bike all tweaked up the way you want it. Now your going to start all over again to tweak the new one "No I'm keeping mine thank you"

 

I had a 07 SE Ultra that I had upgraded with Progressive Mono's on the front and Progressive 944's on the rear. I did the SE tuner with a dyno, etc., low miles and great condition. Did not want to buy a new bike. In 2010 I tested a new bagger and did not make a trade.....then came the 14's. I took a 14 Limited for a ride; that changed my mind about trading. It had more power with a 103 stock than my 110 that was dynoed. The comfort level is much better, braking and handling were also superior. The engine also ran cooler and never pinged. The wireless throttle works very well, especially when cruise control is used. Cruise does not work well with a throttle cable.

I decided, based on my test ride experience that this was the bike for me, but only at a certain price difference. My dealer offered me book value for my trade and gave me a fair price for the new Limited, in my color choice. Two days later I was a owner. Best new touring Harley I have owned. I also wanted to trade up before my trade value dropped as a result of the Rushmore's. I would not have traded at any price.

Con's: My Limited had the coolant leak issue. It tested my patience during those failures. Once they come out with the correct filler neck my leak issue went away. The bike has been flawless.

Would I do it again: yes! But only due to my price difference. I would not have bought the new Limited had it not been comfortable financially. I would not recommend trading up if it stresses the financials. Your 07 is still a great bike. Especially if it's paid for. It will take you anywhere my bike takes me. It will provide years of great ridding. Bottom line: if you can pay cash for the trade difference, without having the new bike harming you financially, I would buy a new Limited. If not, enjoy the bike you own. No motorcycle is worth financial pressure. All the modern Harley's are great bikes, one of my favorite bikes was a 93, rode cross country and loved it.

These comments are based on my life experiences, I have stressed myself financially and regretted the purchase. The Harley's I have enjoyed the most have been the bikes without a payment. Not putting anyone down for financing a bike, just sharing my experience.