Ok but one quick question, are we still doing this on the 30th? I want to make sure
I can make it first too!
As for twins... Here are my picks:
Suzuki TL-R - Cheap fun, good beginner big bike for the track. Little heavy and dated though - I think.
Honda RC-51 - If you can sort out the front suspenion, it's a great bike - but also a little heavy (I think). I hear it pushes a bit in the turns but for backroads and what not, great bike.
Ducati 996 - If you got the money, want attention, and/or run the track (but you'll need even MORE money!) - this is it. But I constantly read about build quality and maintenance. I shouldn't say too much, never got a chance to speak to an owner of one directly yet.
Aprilia RSV Mille - Italian soul, awesome power (tons of Torque) and excellent build. Japanese-like quality and not expensive at all to maintain. May not have the sex appeal of the Ducati, and some complain about the dash layout being a bit too "Trekkie" - but it will hang with just about anything out there. For any extra $3-$4,000, you can get the Mille R (which is where the Ducati 996 SPS is priced - usually higher) and you'll get Ohlins Front/Rear along with Carbon Fiber bits. (996SPS only on the rear- If I remember correctly)
Admittingly, I am biased. But most people will tell you the same thing!
Magazines and online tests should never be taken at face value - but they're definitely a good place to start. Especially if you go through a whole bunch of them.
