Hello,
This is my first post, even though I have now been the owner of a 2002 V11 Scura for a whole two weeks and three days. I love the bike, and think it's a great combination of a sporty riding position and v-twin muscle. This is not only my first Guzzi, but also my first (running) motorcycle. I'm in my late thirties, and had ridden friends' bikes some in college but then got distracted and didn't get around to taking the MSF Safety Course and getting my license until two summers ago. My wife has since given up on my almost-continous shopping trying to find the right bike, but I was finally able to pull the trigger and I'm happy I did so.
This forum seems full of great information, and helped to make me feel confident that the Guzzi was the right balance of uniqueness, durability, and serviceability. I've already had to reseat the speedometer angle drive once because it popped out, but any reservations I had about buying this bike disappear when I hit about 5000 RPM.