[spirilis]

I ride, mine's a large scooter ("maxi-scooter") though. Will say that while I haven't actually rode a sportbike on the street, the seating position looks uncomfortable as hell (and I've tried sitting on them at the local powersports dealer--still feels uncomfortable as hell).

Highly recommend taking the Motorcycle Safety Foundation's basic rider course though. Not sure if it costs you much down in NC, but up in PA it's free for state residents.

Long distance riding is nice... but mentally exhausting IMO. It's quite a treat to travel with your senses so close to nature--you can touch the pavement, feel the subtle changes in humidity and temperature the moment you pass through them, feel the sun on your back all the time, but after 2 hours of riding I feel desensitized like I need a nap lol.