i used to own a 98 S1W also,that was a awesome bike! i still love the tube framers,hows yours for reliability? 1 stator 2 batteries in the 3 years i owned the 98.. the 05, knock on wood, other than a clutch cable and primary cover..its been good.... as for the gearing, i think they are geared lower numericaly than the sportster..overall.