Thanks for the props, guys. t2p, yes, it rides as good as it looks. The main thing to get used to is the 6800 RPM redline. Fortunately, the torque comes on at like 2500 RPM, so you don't have to wait for the pull. Very odd sensation for the import rider who wind up to 12 or 13k in each gear. It is strange to have so much power so soon off of idle. While cruising, you learn to just leave the bike in a higher gear, and forget downshifting, you rarely need to.

Here's a nice dyno chart:

http://www.sportrider.com/bikes/146-0312-twin-dyno.jpg

and the write up:

http://www.sportrider.com/bikes/2004...12r/index.html


I wear a polycarbonate KBC helmet (inferior to fiberglass), only because of fit quality. I tried on the Shoei's; the shape was all wrong in the front, even with custom pads. The Arai's didn't seem much better. My face has kind of a strong jaw line and cheek line; the KBC seemed to be the only helmet that was less round. In general, my head is more elongated (or narrower, whichever way you look at it) than most guys, but my jaw/ cheekbones are not.

Any recommendations on helmets?

Nate