Some of us need all that power to ride fast, I guess...
But I prefer high-quality suspension and lightweight, combined with a free-reving motor that rewards skill, not mindless wrist-twisting.
As far as cost goes, this Buell is cheaper than an R1 or Blade. How so, you say?
In long-term costs. First, the bodywork is tougher and more durable than the Honda/Suzuki stuff. It wont crunch or crack the first time you drop the bike trying to put it on the swingarm stand. Second, Buell parts are cheap as hell!!! Check it out- turnsignals, $5.50 apiece. X1 fairing, painted with mounting hardware-$99.
One SV650 brakelever- $63! Handlebar- $80! And EACH SV650S clip-on is $125!!
Third, this bike will need almost no maintainance. Belt drive and hydraulic lifters means just an oil change when you remember it.
Granted, Buell has had some (OK, lots) of warranty issues in the past, but they did go to amazing lengths to make it right for their customers. They recalled EVERY bike they made to install new swingarms, among other things.
What does it cost for a valve adjust on an R! at your local dealer? A lot, huh? And do you trust them to do a good job?
Fourth, Buell dealers are staffed with people who seem to give a , not pimply morons who ignore you and don't know a swingarm from a pineapple. I swear, ordering a part from the local dealer is like teaching a special ed class. ("Can you point to the valve cover, Billy? You are SOOOO smart!")
Finally, insurance. Most insurers discount bikes they never heard of, like Buells. I may be talking out my ass on this one, but I'll bet insuring a 1000cc Buell is signifigantly cheaper than a 1000cc R1.
So if you factor in all of those things, a Buell is actually much cheaper than a Honda or an R1.
And in any case, who the hell wants an R1 or a GSXR 1000? What's fun for me is using all of a bike's capabilities, or at least close. This is a bike that I think I could max out on a racetrack, unlike an R1. Anybody trying to do that will die, unless they are a very talented roadracer. That's not me.
I can't use 140 HP, but I can use good suspension, good design, and kick-ass brakes. I think this bike is gonna be a winner, and I'll be sure to wave cheerfully everytime I pass a GSXR1000 it's thrift-conscious rider.