I always wanted to get one, when I was younger I would borrow bikes from buddies. Problem was I didn't have much of a fear factor, 1st thing I'd do is see where it would top out. Once I became married and had kids I still was a loose nut so I stayed away from 2 wheels, I was bad enough with 4. I finally felt I had reached a more mature level so I bought my 1st bike, an 883 Sportster. Once I was good and bitten I didn't own the Sporty more than 2 months before I moved right into baggers, then it was a new bagger each year until the 07 MY stopped me cold or shall I say roasted my chestnuts convincing me I should keep my 06.
I still have the need for performance, I just don't need to see where they'll top out anymore.