[pranarun]

Much thanks to both of you, this is quite helpful in my search.

After reading yours Ckcarr, it made me think about attempting to step up the something newer, (as I'm not big on, nor have the time to do a lot of work myself).
I've read some threads here re. the 1200r, and the big difference with the newer motors, (hex-head?).
I've seen a few 1200r's a bit over my range of $5k, with 55,000k miles and not a lot of extras.
Would that be worth a grand or two for the newer technology. The really new stuff has almost toom uch for my taste, (but have not riden it, so maybe it's nice).

I like power, (who doesn't), and torque, especially usable power as these bikes seem to have, (I know it's not close to the other bike I was considering, but over my range, the VFR 1200).

Having the ability to tune suspension as you mentions BTTB, would be very helpful & I'm sure increase the happy-factor, especially the fun roads, (plus better when 2-up).

I do enjoy hearing the bike, but not too much, (my Magna had 4 Cobra pipes, and actually sounded the best of Deceleration)!

Of course, then there's the "mapping" options for a better tuned engine that I've read up on here.

Thanks again, I'm taking my time to gather more info from you generous folks. I know what I like, but you guys let me know what's going to fit best, be practical & hopefully not a maint. pig.

jerry