The engine note and brakes are way, way better, performance pretty similar but the way it is delivered is intoxicating!

Indeed - the Mille GT offers a pretty unique experience. I have tried many bikes since I sold mine but have not found anything that came close to having all that it had in s single package. My Ducati ST2 came close, but that had a severly compromised riding position. I did have a California 1100i for one "season" which came close for the engine "feel", but at the expense of comfort, economy and - critically - reliabilty. Looked lovely, but it was forever in getting something fixed & it is the only bike I have had that came close to going "legal" to get the issues resolved. My Mille had very few issues in the 3 years I owned it.

Riding while "baking hot" is very similar to riding in a deluge - all a matter of rider attitude to the conditions & having the right gear. A summer weight ventilated suit really does make a big difference. We were out and about over the last couple of days, taking lesser travelled roads up to St. Bees in Cumbria on Wednesday (150 miles), over night there then back through the Lakes & North Yorks Moors yesterday (180 miles). Temps up to 27 C & both generally comfortable (me on the Him, Mrs B. on her R65LS) Both wearing FLM brand (Polo "house" brand from Sporstbikeshop) spring / summer weight textile suits with the linings out & vents open.

Nigel B.