Different strokes for different folks.... On the sportbike, the high-revving 4 made me feel like I had to race from light to light. Adrenaline rush, to be sure. Many, many times, I found myself in triple digits hoping to hold on. Very enjoyable, but not the least bit relaxing. On the Victory, it's laid-back, easy shifting, comfort. Feet-forward pegs are rough on my back, but floor boards.... where have you been all my life? My biggest complaint on the sportbike was leg/old-knee fatigue. With the huge floor boards on the Victory, I can move my legs and feet all over the place on long rides. My other choice was going to be either a Road King, Street Glide, Road Glide, or Triumph Rocket III. I don't know that I would have regretted any of them (except the 25 MPG on the Triumph). Good luck with your purchase. After serving, you deserve whatever your finances allow you.