I ride Buell,currently I own a 2004 Lightning XB12s (1203cc). Buell has been around since the 80's I think. As far as a "best model" I wouldn't know. I was attracted to Buell right away,what with my dual exhaust placement way down low,tension control pulley,fuell-in-frame,oil-in-swingarm. This bike is my first motorcycle and I originally wanted an in line 4 750cc,but then decided to learn on something known for great handling and stability,it's also not nearly as fast,(or so I think) as a 750 in line.