So, I broke down and got a motorcycle

2008 Suzuki GSX-R 750cc.
Yes, I could've gotten the Ducati 848, but...
-GSX-R gets better gas mileage
-GSX-R is several thousand dollars less in price
-GSX-R is easier to maintain than the Italian (big surprise?)
-GSX-R is VASTLY more comfortable to ride
-GSX-R has a steering dampener... unlike some Italians which were designed to be lesser bikes
-GSX-R has a 4.5 gallon tank, compared to the 4.1 gallon Italian, furthering the range difference
-GSX-R allows tall guys like myself to customize the locations of pegs and handlebars - very nice!
-GSX-R is an I-4 which is just easier to drive than a V-2
-GSX-R is much more forgiving with: turning, shifting, and accelerating
-GSX-R has mode select, so it can be detuned for better fuel economy

So, it is a much better bike for me. I don't get to sniff my nose and say "well, I drive an ITALIAN race bike" but, I do get to smile and say "I didn't get financially raped for some fancy name plates on a bike where the only benefits can be found on a track that I will never ride".