I have no idea of any frame complaints on a 09, In fact all I ever hear is it is better. It depends on what you want. I would no doubt get the 09 model. By the time you mod what you can trying to make the improvements you still won't be there and much of the 5K will be erased. Plus you will have a year older model which will completely erase whats left of the 5K. The wider tire, the improved frame, the improved exhaust and suspension plus a newer model year makes it a EZ decision IMO. There are other things as well, heat sheilds and deflectors, better stereo, better seat and so on. Get the 09. I think you will regret it if you don't. JMHO. I LOVE my 09.