Some questions about models, swapping, etc. from a Noob

[turbospartan]

Looking to get a SCG as I am about 5'6" and like the look. Had a 2000 Suzuki GSXR 750 from 2003-2008, and now I want to move away from a i4 crotch rocket but not go all the way to a Harley. Love the look of these bikes, especially the one recently sold by Sgt something or other in Maryland (I think it was an 08 SCG with only a few thousand miles he sold for $5900, he was in the military and moving out of country).

I had a few questions that, through my searching, I cannot find the answers to. Maybe I'm not searching enough or not using the right terms, but it might be easier to post questions here.

I was wondering what the differences were in color between models. What I mean is, are the only differences in a Cherry Bomb vs. a Black the front fender, tank, and wind screen? There would be no differences in some of the other parts though, such as the seat rails or other components, right?

Are the materials different as well? I would assume that a translucent red plastic is a different type of plastic than the black plastic. Can a cherry bomb just be easily painted to black, or would it be easier to try to buy/swap a set of plastics of another color?

I am actually interested in carbon fiber body parts, but is there a trustworthy source of these? I found a few threads regarding eBay vs. some motorcycle shops, etc. But is there one company for instance that everyone on the forum agrees makes a good product? I found a link selling the tank for $250ish but it didn't mention UV protection or anything like that.

I found a thread that showed all of the updates from the 2010 versions compared to previous versions, so I would assume that 2010 is the best year to get. Besides that, is there a general rule of thumb on any years to avoid?

I'm still getting to know the bikes but sometimes I see one and it looks different from another version, sometimes they're even the same model. An example is between the front wheel and the front of the engine... on some pictures it looks like things are closer together but then on other photos it looks like a much larger gap (which I don't like). Maybe just the way the photo was taken?

My last question is more of an opinion from the board. Anyone else come from the GSXR series, or even a sport bike (CBR, R1/6, Ducati, etc)? How would you compare those to the xb12's? Another potential issue I have is that I can't find any dealerships that have these in stock (which makes sense, as they are no longer produced) but I would like to sit on one just to get a feel for it and everything. There are a couple of them on CL, but I know I don't want to buy those (really hoping to find an SCG, in black) so it'd almost be me saying "Yo dude, I'm not interested in your bike but I'd like to sit on it and take it for a test ride if you don't mind". Thoughts?

Thanks in advance.

 

[turbospartan]

Here is the link to the SSgtBuell poster who sold his SCG just a month or 2 ago.

This bike is just about exactly what I'm looking for (style wise): http://www.buellxb.com/Buells-for-Sale/Buell-Lightnings-for-Sale/Forsale-2009-XB12SCG--5900o.b.o

 

[BuellPimp]

I've owned 06 zx6r,05 CBR 600rr, 06 zx10r, 06 Hayabusa, and a 02 Roadstar Warrior, then finally a 03 Ducati Monster. I wanted something that can give me the best of both worlds, comfortable, city friendly, and when I wanna hit the hills have fun. Oh and I forgot I also wanted something I don't see everyday.

All of those pointed right to a Buell for me. As you can see from what I've owned I just about had them all. I've always had a interest in a Buell timing and not getting one for the right price is what keep me so long from one but until now. I'm glad I made the choice (05 xb9cityX) the ride and sound of a Buell there is nothing like it. Best of both worlds mission accomplished for me.

Your answers as to parts ect are all on the board just gotta take time and gather the info as it may. Most of the pic's here on the board you can see from a stock look or even customized. From the link you posted the seller had a normal batch of mods done. The carbon fiber parts your wanting alot of them pop up from ebay or hit up some of the stores that are sponsored on the site as a source. Good luck on your search and when you find the right one you won't look back.