That's a tough choice bro. I have an 08 1098s and I love it but...I wish I had the traction control. I'm a sucker for technology. I will say I wasn't happy with the looks of the 09 because of the frame/wheel color. The 08 had the red frame which which is why I never upgraded. Like Luncheon said, you also get an extra 100cc that a lot of magazine journalist have raved about saying it's not just a bored out 1098. Having never ridden an 1198, I couldn't tell you if it's worth it. For me, I would go the 08 route for the looks...but there always is the powder coat option for the 09. I bet you could get a "cheaper" 08 from someone who just has to upgrade. I know 08 1098s are a dime a dozen here on the mainland, just look at the classified threads here. Speaking of which, I don't know the cost of shipping one out there, but could you get one in the lower 48 and then ship it to save money?