I own both bikes. A 2 1/2 yr old '05 Rocket (Jars, 3 k&n's, PCIII) and a 1 1/2 yr old stock 109.
Totally different bikes. I like the looks of the 109 better (pers preference)...I like the uniqueness of the Rocket more. For hopping around town on the short runs, I like the 109. ANYTHING ELSE...I like the Rocket. The way they're set up, the Rocket is much more powerful.
My wife rides with me "sometimes". I can't even imagine taking her on the 109.
Although I've been lucky in the "problems" categorey, I'm much more confident that I can find a good "wrench" for the 109. I don't think any of the 3 Triumph dealers I'm familiar with Know squat about the Rocket.
What I want...is BOTH bikes. If I had to pick one.....I'd settle on the Rocket for an "overall" winner.