simply put...the TLR is a fuggin pig compared to the RC51....i once went through a v-twin phase and somehow schemed a ride on both with every intent of purchasing one of them...although the RC was new than the TLR ('03 Sp-3 vs. '01 TLR), there was no choice at all between them....RC hands down....seemed like the TL had some more power in the mid-range RPM's...but that was the only advantage...also the brakes on a TL are made of wood....