[Puffin64]

Perhaps your suspension needs re-building/setting up or you need a better choice of tyre? worth considering before chopping and going to the other side!

 

[Puffin64]

What reliability issues have you been having, and can't they be sorted out?

 

[Puffin64]

If you're used to Ducati servicing costs to adjust shims etc then the later VTEC costs won't be a shock to you.
Have you thought about Triumph 800 /XC just been admiring them at a garage in Edinburgh, tidy looking machine.