Jst2fst, I have been in the Insurance business...You have no friends when it comes to business...Why so many people look at their insurance person as their friend, just amazes me...They might be your friend outside of work, but not when your policy is laying in front of them...I am not saying it can't exist, but trust me, it is very rare today!!! Shop around for yourself, outside of the family friend, you will be glad you did! Probably most of the advice given in this thread is from past experiences, only to help you avoid issues others have seen and experienced, not to discourage you in any way, but only to help you to not make a bad decision...You might want to drop the guard a bit, and listen up...Even though the majority will not confess to such, in fear of being labeled as a hypocrite, the only way they can know is from some type of life experience, if not then they are just being "know it alls", decipher the nonsense, there is some good advice being shared with you here! I myself have made some poor decisions in purchasing motorcycles over the years...I always thought I needed the most up to date, the fastest, the coolest, for the longest time, that caused me some serious financial lose throughout the years...Trust me I still want these things, but now I show a bit of discipline and realize I do not need it, nor will I ever use it. Think what does your current bike do for you, and how are you using it, if you are not satisfied with it, you need to find out why, what is missing, and what do I actually need, then decide on the motorcycle you are truly needing...If it is solely for show and bragging rights, then all this great advice everyone is willing to share with you is no more than meaningless, if that is the case buy what you want, how you want, and pay what you want, it is simple! If you truly are into riding and experiencing all of the fun and excitement motorcycling has to offer, which it took me a long time to gather myself, but I am a slow learner, you will open your eyes and consider some of the great motorcycles available to you outside of the super sport style models...Sure you might not have the bragging rights or the status among some you ride with or are friends with, but that is only because they don't get it yet!!! Best of luck with your decision, enjoy the new bike, and ride safe!!!