[Brian_Fenner]

See my reply in the thread listed by Angelo............

In short, IMHO the improvements in the 2009 are well worth the additional $$ :thumbup:

 

[Brian_Fenner]

If its not an 09 its already a year old.:roll::roll:

There is actually more to it than that...............
I've seen 2008 models sitting on the showroom floor with a build date of 8/07 (remember 2008 model build started very early in June 2007). Those brand new bikes will be close to two years old when the riding season hits full swing.
IMHO they better be discounting these bikes a lot compared to an '09.

If you purchase a 2009 model the oldest build date would be 9/08.


Now maybe this doesn't matter to anyone but it's something to keep in mind.

 

[Brian_Fenner]

I am just a few days away from ordering my new Goldwing, and as all of you already know, I'm so excited that I can't hardly sleep at night, or work during the day, because all I do is think about the Goldwing! lol
Anyway, I'm just hoping to get a little input from some of you that have already taken the plunge. Can you give me the pro's and con's of the two bikes. Which way should I go? The obvious thing that is involved here, is that depending on which way I go, will narrow down the color options.
If I go with the 08, I think I will choose the "Pearl White", if I go with the 09, I'm leaning towards the "Titaneum".
All help appreciated, and I look forward to reading your replies.

ValleyRider

David Smith
Pauls Valley, OK

IMHO get the 2009 model................worth the extra $$

I bought an '09 ABS on Nov 1st (sold my '01)...........I was on the fence about purchasing an '08 back in September and decided to wait to see the '09's. I'm very glad I waited.........Personally I would of been disappointed with an '08 when comparing the two.

Vastly improved NT based GPS system......much better than previous versions
XM Radio
Integrated XM weather
Integrated XM traffic
TPMS system with metal valve stems
Accurate speedo!
Cruise control lag fixed
Alternator whine fixed (at least never heard anyone with an '09 say they have the issue the last few years have had)
Headlights perfectly aimed even
Saddlebags/trunk latches much more robust (this may have been improved on prior years)
Higher capacity battery (20AH)
?? probably other minor fixes/upgrades yet to be discovered
Better color - Candy Black Cherry :wink:


I'm glad I waited for an '09.............but the choice is yours and only you need to be happy about what you decide.
Good luck on whatever you choose.

 

[Brian_Fenner]

IMHO check the Kelly Bluebook difference........looking at below they should be discounting quite a bit on an '08 compared to an '09.
If you have an accident or for some reason need to sell it in a short period of time this would make a big difference.

Here's an example from KBB..........


2008 Honda GL18P GoldWing w/Prem Audio Value
(Valid as of March 19, 2009)

• 6-Cylinders
• 4-Stroke
• 1832cc

Suggested Retail Value $15570

There is actually more to it than that...............
I've seen 2008 models sitting on the showroom floor with a build date of 8/07 (remember 2008 model build started very early in June 2007). Those brand new bikes will be close to two years old when the riding season hits full swing.
IMHO they better be discounting these bikes a lot compared to an '09.

If you purchase a 2009 model the oldest build date would be 9/08.


Now maybe this doesn't matter to anyone but it's something to keep in mind.

 

[Brian_Fenner]

If you looked up the retail value on KBB for a 2008 Goldwing as of March 19, 2008 it assumes the bike has 5,300 miles based on the CC size of the engine. The amount shown is not for a brand new retail price. Low mileage used and no mileage new would sell for a premium price over the amount shown.

While I am not arguing whether the 2009 or 2008 is a better deal at least you should compare Apples to Apples.

I never said it was for a brand new bike did I?..........but it gives you an idea on the value of the bike once it leaves the dealership. You'd be darn lucky to get that amount once driven a block from the dealer, by selling it or collecting an insurance settlement.
A 2008 is considered 1 year old minimum..........a 2009 is a current year model and would reflect such in value and would garner significantly more in value.