iMav

So, a little bit of history first.

I've been riding bikes contantly since I was 12 years old (36 now). Dirt bikes/enduros, cruisers, standards, sport bikes (older GPz's), etc...I've owned and ridden a little bit of everything. Most recently, I owned (and loved!) a '00 ZRX1100 from 2000-2003 and currently own an '03 Vulcan 1600 Classic (which I've had since 2003).

I'm definitely looking for something a bit more sporty (than the vulcan). Typically do a 30-40 minute highway commute twice daily, some modest twisty fun, and some longer trips a few times a year. I was more than happy with the power of the ZRX when I had it, and would not necessarily need all that power. I definitely want something that can cruise the highway at 80-90 comfortably (without winding the **** out of it) and can accomidate some aftermarket bags.

Originally, I went ga-ga over the newly-announced Concours14. However, the more I think about it, the more I wonder if I really need that much bike. I am 5'6" and my weight typically varies between 170-185. Inseam is 29-30-ish". I was fine with the seat height of the ZRX, but obviously, am quite a bit more sure-footed at a stop with the very low Vulcan.

Additionally, I'm actually looking to buy TWO bikes. A new one for myself and another bike to use as a loaner for a friend of mine who, although quite competant on two wheels, has not the finances to own a bike. My feeling is that I'd like both bikes to be of a similiar 'style' as we would be riding primarily together when he rides.

I would prefer some sort of fairing as opposed to a full naked bike. The thought of trying out a couple of v-twin sport bikes has crossed my mind...but that certainly isn't in stone. Heck, I even thought about getting my friend a Hyosung GT650R and myself a Fischer...but I worry about the motor's reliability and whether I'd be happy with the performance.

I am currently serving in Iraq and will likely be here till later in 2008, so I definitely have some time to think (and for at least another year or so of bike models to come out). I'd love to keep the cost under $18-20k...but would be willing to pay up to $25k for the two bikes if I simply had to have them.

Not having the ability to go look and test ride the bikes is a bit frustrating...but I simply don't want to table the whole idea until I return as I want to do research and read up on potential bikes (have a lot of down time here).

So, any suggestions?