Considering Ultra Classic - Suggestions?

canadianrider

I am considering buying a 2009 Ultra Classic. I have ridden a number of bikes in the past and currently own a 2007 Moto Guzzi Norge. Reason I am considering Ultra Classic - want a nice comfy couch for riding. I want comfort - nice seat, good back support, good tunes (would like to hook in my mp3 player to stereo system), storage space. That's why the HD Ultra is being considered.

I am wondering what people have put on their bikes asap after buying - or wished they would have. Drivers backrest? stage one kit? slip on mufflers? alarm system? ABS? Different windshield?

The bikes I have had were pretty good at getting up and going - usual cruising speed was not the "recommended" version on the signs. I also like to put in long days - 10 -> 12 hours, 1000 - 1200km.

Altho not a current "Hog pilot", I look forward to trying out a new ride. Any and all suggestions will be gratefully appreciated. And no, I won't be selling the Norge! <grin> so thanks for the suggestion in advance.

Doug_09ultra

Welcome canadianrider! Well, as you might guess from my user name I am familiar with what you are considering. I have only been riding a few months but I couldn't be happier with my decision to go with an ultra. It is as you say, a nice comfy couch. I would suggest that you invest in the adjustable backrest. It has made a comfortable ride even more so. Also if you have the choice, go with the ABS. I wish I had. As far as the stage one kit goes, I did mine before I picked it up but it is something you could wait to do if you want. (My stage one is detailed in my sig.) I doubt that you'll be disappointed in the power of the ultra as well as the 6 speed trans. along with all the other "perks" it a sweet ride indeed.

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'09 Ultra Classic, Vivid Black, Stage 1: V&H Tapered Slashcuts, MO-FLO A/C, SERT

Redfish-Joe

If you can, try a Road Glide before you decide.

Hobbit

i have a 09 Ultra and even in the modified state so i can reach the floor - lowered front and rear and i have the lowered reach seat - the bike is awesomely comfy, it has enough get up and go to haul a 4berth trailer tent and a weeks stuff and 2 people with out aggro and without the trailer it will get a boogie on, its not in the same league as my street bob but it still does motor and its smoother 110 is nothing for it 1 or 2 upand you can still hear the stereo
i am due to do a 1000iba in the next few weeks so will let you know how this goes

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STEVE07

I have the Classic and it is by far the most comfortable long haul bike I have owned. Stage1,pipes and TFI really wakes them up if you want it to have a bit more power and less engine heat.

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Please stop by the "self help section" for maintenance tips, diagnostic codes and much more.
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oldgeezer

I have no regrets. I love my bike.

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Harley Riders- The only people who can be broke down on the side of the road and feel sorry for the cage drivers passing by!

RichardS

I can second everything Steve has said, but want to add that while yes, based on YOUR riding needs an Ultra sounds like just the ticket, the Ultra is NOT the easiest bike to haul around town for a leisurely Sunday afternoon ride. (Especially on a hot summer day.....do NOT discount the heat factor of these monsters, which will make you feel like you're sitting ina roaster set at 500 degrees while sitting in traffic.)

As a result of my changing riding habits, (no more long distance runs....the trips to Daytona, etc, are over for me), I have slowly but surely been eliminating what makes my Ultra an "Ultra"....the tour pack, the "couch" seating, as you called it, etc.......

Look.....



See what I mean....is it really still an "Ultra"??

And you'd be surprised at how often I see others being transformed similarly......so don't be surprised if you find your bike evolving as you do!

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Lancer

I have an 08 Ultra, love the bike. Gotta haves for comfort: Better seat (I chose Mustang), adjustable backrest, road pegs, aileron hand grips. For performance: Slip on mufflers, full flow air cleaner, TFI. For looks: Enough chrome bling to suit your taste.

phatch

I have an '03 Ultra and have done numerous long distance hauls with it. I recently put on a back rest which has enhanced the ride considerably. Enjoy.

oakhill200

Love my 08 ultra.