This thread motivated me to get a new bike. I hadn't ridden in 15 years, 95% offroad. Last week I bought a 2007 Honda XR650L, a dual-purpose bike that is a street legal dirt bike. I figured I would start on the street with something familiar. It has been both a frightening and exhilirating experience to ride on the street, something I've never done before. One's senses are bombarded with stimuli, from that of the bike itself and also the street environment.
Buells are cool bikes. After I have a few thousand miles on the street, I'm going to give some thought to a Buell streetbike, perhaps something from the Lightning series. The styling of these bikes is amazing. I will also look at the Triumph Tiger and Street Triple 675 and the Ducati Monster.
I was recommended a book on motorcycling that is highly regarded in motorcycling communities as a source of insight into riding safely and enjoyably on the street.