Great writeup. I'm with you as far as the bars go. I didn't think I would ever like ape-hangers but these are just the right height, I believe. Does give it a good, clean appearance. The low clearance does indeed add an interesting effect in turns. Just about the time you think you made it around clean, it may surprise you. Making a right turn into an uphill grade has gotten me more than once. first thing you may want to do is while the bike is still new, take the time to adjust the rear shocks. I have mine adjusted out 4 full turns and it seems to be fine for me and my wife (i'm 200 and she is now a trim 135
so it doesn't seem to bottom out. The tool that is supposed to come with the bike doesn't do much good because it is just a skosh long to be able to turn the shock. But I am adapting. I really enjoy the ability to strip stuff off if for nothing other than washing the bike completely in less time than non-quick release. The lighting is what I am going to have to attack with vengeance before long. This '12 looks like it will lend itself well to putting a light bar on and having a place to tap into for power for it. Got a new horn in the mail the other day (high output Harley Horn from about 2002 or 2003 or so. Will startle the crap out of you standing still but out on the road, who knows what people hear or don't hear when they are in their cage with the stereo turned up, the darkened windows rolled up, and shaving or applying makeup, or a hundred other things that divert attention and whatnot. Did I mention talking on their cellphone rather than looking or listening for bikes blowing their horns?
Just get sick of that mousy stuff all the bike companies put stock on these bikes.... But I do love the bike also,. Pork