I had a similiar experience to yours. I sold my 79 bonneville special 750 twin in '83 and I have regretted it ever since. This spring I bit the bullet and with the current gas prices and my truck getting only 9 MPG I sprang for the new Speedmaster. I got a left over 07 model and I love it.

I am told that it is a mite fast out of the hole than the America but I could care less. I use it for hiway and crusing around town. With a good windshield it is great for crusing at 80 mph but you must get a good windshield with lowers to fully enjoy it. It is not too friendly on dirt and gravel roads. Good on gas and very comfortable. I am 5'10 and 220 lbs and the ride is great. The forward controls give me a bit of room to stretch which I would not have on the mid control bonny. This bike is also lower to the ground than a bonny and is about 50 lbs heavier. This makes for greater stability and a better high speed ride. I agree with the other posters, there are some good values on a used bike and the America with the Goodwood green and white would be my choice. The America appeals to me with the higher and swept back handlebars and the two up seating pillion which is better than mine on the speedy. the xtra brake disc on the front is a plus for the speedy but I also like the spoke wheels on some of the americas. I am torn if I was to be buying another one now but since I have committed to the Speedmaster I have been very happy with it and content. It has more speed and power than I need but I can depend on it to accelerate onto a hiway and I can get away from those nasty cagers who want to play tag at hiway speeds. Gets 45 to 50 MPG if you ride easy. ride hard and your mileage will drop to less than 45 mpg but ride it and enjoy it. I have ridden the harley 883 and I was less than impressed with the handling and vibration. The speedy gives up nothing in performance and the smoothness and ease of maintenance is to be appreciated down the road.
http://s272.photobucket.com/albums/jj187/dancorrigan/?action=view&current=IMG_0072-1.jpg

http://s272.photobucket.com/albums/jj187/dancorrigan/?action=view&current=Bonnya.jpg

http://s272.photobucket.com/albums/jj187/dancorrigan/?action=view&current=IMG_0065.jpg

07 Speedmstr, Long Tors, bags, sissy bar and rack, windshield, engine bars, 2 ww lights, 2 fast eddy stickers and a .45 ACP.