I'd beware of the Ducs -- they're really gorgeous, but my friends with 'em warn that dealer service every 6k miles gets very expensive very quickly. Beware.
What about Buells? They're certainly not "common," but the price tag is more reasonable than most Italian scoots, and they have loads of personality.
Barring that, see if you can find an old Sprint 955. I rode one a few weeks ago and SWEET SUFFERING JEBUS that thing is fast. She'll break the ton in 3rd gear, no problems, and the engine is smooth as butter. That, and the seating position, while very forward, is still comfortable enough that you don't feel too cramped.
That, or check out the KTM Duke and SuperDuke (I lust the new Duke 690 in a deep and unhealthy way), as well as the BMW K1200R or S, which provide 160 horses of love each. Again, Hand Of God acceleration.
But my money would be on the Buells.
--Jaeger
