I took out a sportster. This was a few years back though. In 2005 i believe. After that experience it threw me away from them.
But if you say the quality is up then I have no basis to say otherwise.
you def cant base the opinion of HD on a ride on a sportster... it is the KIA of HD... it is their base model most affordable bike. I am not saying there is anything wrong with the Sportster but lets face it... you cant compare a 08v6 mustang to a gt500kr... they arent even in the same league.
I have a 00 fatboy as well and its a little rough around the edges compared to my vrod. However, it is 7 years older, not fuel injected, and doesnt have near the technology involved. It is a very good riding bike, and still a very good looking bike as well.
I hope to get some shot of both this weekend, I will post them up.