I have 04 Heritage softail..that I got new in 04---have almost 80,000 miles on it now!!. totally different ride for long distances---we are picky about who we ride with--no hotdogging--no tavern stops until off the bike at the end of the day---and 6 to 7 is a great group...bigger than that it can be difficult---and it takes longer to do everything--fuel up--eat--potty stops LOL LOL
My Heritage is an 08 & has 68,400 miles now. I like a group of 3-5 for the reasons you stated. I ride with my Motor Maid sisters mainly. Sometimes their husbands join us & they're all good riders so far