Dang, It looks like I showed up to the party late......good thread.

Brett, these guys have given very good advice and the bikes suggested you really can't go wrong either way.

Two things though:

1. What kind of price range are we talking about for you?

2. Why hasn't anyone suggested the good ole Ninja 500? It's got a bulletproof motor, more power than the GS, and been the platform for many a race bikes. I've had one since 89 and don't have but one complaint, no real good exhaust choices. It's also like a $5k buy in new. Sub $2k used in good shape.

Just another idea.