You are completely correct -- in most real world situations, having serious torque down around 5000 rpm is a lot more useful than having 130 hp at 10,000.
In Europe, the marketplace clearly recognizes that, but so far, here in the US, the customers who think like you (and I) do seem to gravitate to Harleys or other cruisers, 2-valve Ducatis or BMW Boxer twins.
Given the underwhelming market response to other Japanese bikes targeting this segment, I can't blame Suzuki for being a bit gun-shy about bringing it in here. Seems like most customers for Japanese inline 4s are more interested in bragging rights than useful performance.
In Europe, the marketplace clearly recognizes that, but so far, here in the US, the customers who think like you (and I) do seem to gravitate to Harleys or other cruisers, 2-valve Ducatis or BMW Boxer twins.
Given the underwhelming market response to other Japanese bikes targeting this segment, I can't blame Suzuki for being a bit gun-shy about bringing it in here. Seems like most customers for Japanese inline 4s are more interested in bragging rights than useful performance.