I am quite glad someone had asked this question, as it is the same thing that is going through my head. My 06 SG has 50,000 miles on it and has never been back to the dealer since the 1,000 mile service. I did all my own maintenance and repairs. I can honestly say I have not spent $500.00 on all repairs total on this bike. That does not include Amsoil engine oil changes every 3,000 miles and trans and primary oil changes every 6,000 miles. All my buddies say I am crazy for changing my fluids this frequently but in the end I really think it is why I have had zero problems with the engine or trans in this bike. Fast forward to today with my 2011 SESG. When I bought it in September I had no intention of buying any ESP crap, and every intention of servicing it exactly like I did the 06 and expecting the same reliability. After spending 3 months reading the horror stories of engine problems alone on this site, I can't hardly sleep without the thought of buying a warranty to save me the potential thousands of dollars this thing could cost me in repairs!!! I guess I am gonna pony up before my factory warranty is up in March and buy the ESP!!!