I never rode a k9 but it rides better than my 04 mastiff. Reason being. The stock suspension sucked on my mastiff. The legend has progressive rear adjustable shocks. Im taller and the legend stock fits me better. I had to put 3" extensions on the mastiff. Rsd is on my legend. More balanced bike. I like the controlls on the legend. There are alot more stock parts on the legend that I can get out Drag Specialties. Keep in mind, Im comparing two bikes, two years apart. On paper the K9's specs are more like the Texas Chopper. I wanted not as radical but looking at it now I should of just got the Texas Chopper. Its only 2" more downtube stretch. 2" longer forks. But, they come with dual calipers in the front and a stealth swingarm. Other than that its the same bike has mine. Im thinking of paint my bike a similar paint scheme down the road. I do have a tendancy to buy and sell alot of bikes. I always see something else I want a lil bit more. lol