Reflective -
I have a K9 with a 300 and have had a 250 bike before – My general observations are:
1. 250 easier in tight turns, but with the K9 you have the proprietary BDM balance drive, which neutralizes the off set found in 300 tire bikes and makes tight turn handling manageable – that was the claim to fame on the Balance Drive System when it came it. A chick can drive this bike all day long.
2. Ray is right about tire wear – The 250 last twice as long, but the 300 seems to have a softer ride.
3. Most of my riding is longer distance highway riding. Here, I think the K9 has a slight advantage with the heaver weight (don’t get tossed by the wind as much) and the slightly lower trail – Both have 42 degree rake, K9 has 39 degrees in frame and 3 in the trees while the 250 has 37 in the frame and 5 in the trees.
With the K9 250 you will be free to customize it easily using any HD standard parts and accessories. With the K9 300 you’ll be limited in your choices because of BDM proprietary fit parts – For example grips, pegs, electronics. You can convert over to HD standard but it will take a little patience and about $2k or so. For example, I cut off the handlebar ends and welded on ends from a HD, direct wired the bike, etc etc.
If you going to spend over $20K it would be wise to find a dealer who has both and ride them both. Yeah, you might have to do a weekend trip over to a dealer who has both but buying anything new should be a fun experience. Call the dealer in advance and let them know you’re coming from a distance so they know you are serious and not just kicking tires. I’m sure they’ll take care of you.
The last thing you want is buyer’s remorse – ride them both.