The Stroms are the most comfortable bikes I have ever been on, and I have been on quite a few bikes. I love the neutral riding position, and I can easily put forward pegs on my crash bars so I can stretch out when needed. I like that there are just SO MANY accessories available for them, tailoring them to your comfort level is practically endless. A great saddle and a better handlebar transforms the bike immensely, I also like that if mine were to fall over, I just pick it up and go on my way. I avoid the slab like the plague, but the 1000 especially eats miles upon miles on the slab at brisk sport touring speeds. A trip to Maine proved just how comfortable and flexible the Vstroms are, we explored ALLOT of places I would never dream going on most road bikes, and they are fabulous on rough pavement and crap roads. Yeah I obviously am a fan, I am on my 2nd one in 8 years. This new 1000 is gonna be a big hit for them "again" and the improved gas mileage they are toting is gonna be a class leader.