I can see more difference between the Thunderbird and all the others than between Electra and Classic, which to my eye don't seem that much different. The handlebars on the T-bird seem higher as does the positioning of the tank, and the seat seems lower. Yes, this might give more comfort in cruising, However, I'm not concerned with this, so much, as with the mechanical difference. The maximum distance I will ride on any given day is only about 20 miles to the end of the island and back home, so any riding position is fine. There are apparently differences in the frame of the Electra as compared to the Classic, such that there are separate parts, in many cases, for the two, designated with a "B" or an "E" in the CMW catalogue. I'm not at all sure which I would order in these cases, but can probably just ask when ordering.
Thanks for the imput!