My 999 is over five years old and I've put 27k miles on it. I've worn-out the clutch (dry clutch, not known for its longevity), had the oil changed every 3 thou, had the valves adjusted three times, replaced the chain, and put a number of sets of tires on it. Not exactly "working on it constantly."
In August, 2005, I rode it 1,027 miles in 20 hours, 21 minutes in an Iron Butt ride ..... hardly something a fragile bike would endure. :gtfo:
http://i355.photobucket.com/albums/r445/martyr65/999.jpg