1. Buy the one that feels best to you. If you love the look of one, but the feel of the other, buy the looks and start negotiating with the deler about swapping on the seat and handlebars from the one that feels best because those are what change the feel.
2. Yes, but.... It all depends on the local plod. keep your eyes and ears open and see what others seem to be able to get by with and play it from there. One advantage of the new Triumph twins is that they are sometimes mistaken for the older ones that are supposed to be louder. At any rate, don't modify the original silencers and keep them put away safe, just in case you have to re-install them to pass MOT.
3. You should be OK as long as you keep the bike clean and well waxed. It would be a good idea to get a cover for it. Keep in mind though, that it is not usually a good idea to cover a bike for very long at a time when it is wet.
Another thing, get some dielectric grease and coat as many electrical connexions as you can find wiht it to keep moisture out.
Oh yes, when negotiating with the dealer, especially if you decide on an America, see if you can get it with Avon tyres. They do better in the wet.
