Suzuki GSX-R1000 K4

The K5 is a better bike, but that market has been plundered by fanboys, so it’s now overpriced. The K4 was a top contender in its day, and the classic looks are backed up by solid performance. Get a cheap one, spend on some tasteful Yoshi upgrades and you’ll not look back. And if you’re rich enough, throw a bit of cash at the suspension too. The stock bike knows how to dance, but sweeter handling is on the cards for not a lot more money.