hi john, i personally have been very happy with my bike, my dealer and the limited dealings with the manufacturer , when the other guys start chiming in here you will get a more complete picture, my son rides an o4 vegas bought new in late 03, my good friend bought an 05 hammer and my 09 vegas , absolutely no probs. a bullet proof bike, do your maintenance and you will be fine.
steve
PS hopefully the guy that bought the new bike that burnt up will post , the short story, the factory gave him a brand new bike with up-grades for his trouble in a timely manner.