Yearning is an inherently human condition. And thats what were talking about here the constant yearning for a bike that satisfies us, theoretically, better than the one we already have (or have conquered, if you like). We mortals have fiscal constraints on our yearning, so we cant recreate Jay Lenos garage. My constraint is I can only have one bike if I want to keep my one wife.
When I went into the market last year to pick a bike, I put yearning aside and thought about the deficiencies in all the bikes Ive had and came up with a list of requirements. Had to be lighter than a CB900, better wind protection than a VF500, more comfortable than a 750 ACE, and good ergos like a 250 dirtbike. Other stuff I wanted: drop-dead reliability, low initial & recurring costs, ready dealer support throughout the US, FI, good mpg, good range, great lights, and ability to carry lots o stuff. And, oh yeah, it had to be fun to ride.
I ended up with a 650 Strom and added bags, a bigger windshield, and Home Depot lowers onto the crash bars. This bike has kept my yearning in check. I still find myself relapsing and lusting after bikes (and now track days, thanks MO), but the gotta-have-it-now, drool cup response is tempered when I think of the shortcomings of my "lust bike" de jour. Throughout the lust episodes, I happily commute rain or shine on the Wee Strom and have never regretted buying it.
To improve the bike, Suzuki should add an ABS option and redesign it Im a firm believer that it costs just as much to make an ugly bike as a good looking one. Pity the Strom its a bike only engineers can love (and we do).
For me, the 650 Strom (with some add-ons) is the synthesis of the SV650, VFR, and Connie.