Help, buy an 03 or 06 and later model

[cincybuelltp]

So, I've done some searching on the site and read the differences between the 03 and the 06 and up models and I'm just wonding what everyones opinion on if it's that big a deal if you can grab a low mile really nice 03 vs spending more $$ for the later models. I assume the big differences are 2mm bigger front fork (is that really that much better) and a different designed swing arm (slighly ligher/stronger) and a easier clutch lever. Oh and maybe a different designed air intake. There still seems to be a few 03 out there but alot of 07 & 08's. Also I know there are a few debates about 9's or 12's from 0-80mph is there really any difference in the two models? Oh and one question, I'm noticed on one 03 model it has some black looking triangle thing on the frame close to the front fork but on most of the 03's I don't see that. What are those black looking plastic looking thing on the front wide part of the frame on the sides?

[Squattybodyjr]

The black things are frame pucks incase the bike goes down. as far as the rest i dont much.

[dallasb]

I wouldn't worry too much about the year. Just make sure the bike is well taken care of. The only issues I know with the '03 is the belt and kickstand failures. Both easy fixes. On the other hand I personally know someone who has almost 20k on a stock belt with his '03. I've ridden both the 9 and 12...honestely I like my 9 more. Basically if at all possible ride one of each and make a decision...it all comes down to personal preference between the 9 and 12.

[Riderdie]

They also changed the width of the drive belt. I think the 03 is like 11mm and the later ones are 14 and 15. My 07 ss runs alot hotter than the old 03 but could just be that particular bike.

[cincybuelltp]

All great info. Thanks

One thing I've read about is the gears in the trans is upgraded in the 06 and up model. Are the gears that noisy in the 03? I'd be suprised if you could hear them over the sound of the bike.

[ophawk]

What they actually changed on the belts is the Tooth Pitch, spacing one tooth to the next, it was 14mm on the early XB's and they switched back to the 12mm, 1 1/8 inch wide 128 tooth count. which is the same as the Tuber's and the Sportsters.
Later