I’d have a…

£4000 Buell XB9R Firebolt

» Exotic doesn’t have to mean Italian. All Buells are interesting but the XB9R is the highlight. Shoving a pushrod Harley twin in a radical chassis (21˚ head angle, 84mm trail, 1340mm wheelbase) was unusual enough, but with its rim-mounted disc, fuel in the frame and under-slung pipe the XB9R is properly exotic. And it works. Sure, it’s an acquired taste and yes there were drivebelt and wheel bearing issues. But nowt goes from upright to full lean as rapidly as a Firebolt. Prices start at £3500, but £4k gets a minter with niggles ironed out.