I am a new member who posted topic on Monday asking for help deciding between the '04 and a new AE.
Thanks to all of your help, I bought an AE Monday night and picked it up yesterday and rode a mellow 100 miles yesterday afternoon.
My biggest concern was low speed operation as I have read some criticism even by professional motorcycle writers. I was prepared to spend an hour in a large parking lot getting comfortable with the bike and after five minutes was pleasantly surprised how comfortable I was and hit the street.
It has been almost ten years since I have ridden a street bike yet I found myself "air clutching" and shifting form first to neutral a couple of times as lights turned from red to green (formerly known as neutral to 1st.)
Anyway, my nervousness transitioned to hapiness during my initial ride as my decision was confirmed.
I found that the bike handled awesomely and shifted smoothly. Heat was a non-issue.
Had I not read about the windshield whistle, I would have been bothered to notice it, but as compared to what I was expecting, I found it to be not so bad.
It definitely upshifts more smoothly with out easying off the throttle.
I rode last night and used the nuclear powered heat grips and was impressed.
I am 5'7" with a 30" inseam and had no problem at all with the height and will not look to do any lowering.
at my height (or lack there of), I may just stay with the stock screen but could see how most taller riders will want to replace it.
I look forward to sharing more insights as I get some more seat time but again thanks to everyone for your input. In addition to the topic I posted Monday, I have been eavesdropping this sight and the EZ sight for some time now.
-Malve