I struggled with the decision too but finally decided that the price difference was insignificant given the outfitting of the rally over the 900 Ace. I plan on a few dirt roads from time to time but like the upgraded suspension and included Max Mount anyway. By the time you outfit a 900 with suspension and stuff, you'll outprice the Rally. BTW, someone once said they could't see touring on a Rally...please, this is not a touring machine, it is a sporting vehicle (but I'll add a top box and do short two days tours anyway!)