Can you pick up a US spec bike at the factory?
If so how?
Bill

Probably not, and why would you want to?

BMW and Mercedes have a program where you can order a US spec car and pick it up at the factory in Germany. People do this because they get to drive in Germany on the Autobahn, tour the ...

"You have a DUCATI and now you want a used Jap bike??? What's wrong with you..."

...I'm going thru the same thing.
Mike S.

...buy a used Suzuki SV650! ...

This is all very good advise!
Can't add anything to that.
Mike S.

so heres the crunch with all your collective knowledge tell me why I should buy one!

Don't do it. Don't get one!
It makes you want to ride...
It makes you want to ride faster than you should.
It makes you spend more time on this forum than you should.
Multistrada's are evil.
Mike S.

All you Multi guys must be giants.... 5'7"

I'm 5'7"...but I feel big and strong
You get used to the height.
Mike S.

...oh, and the mirror stems have been increased in length.
Mike S.

What are the differences in the 2005 from the 2004?

I know the following:
Seat
Windsreen

What else?

I think the only other thing is the sidestand.
Mike S.

I would also be interested in any opinions on buying dealer demos, especially considering the importance of proper breakin.

I got me a dealer demo. It had the 600mile service already done and I got the full 2 year warranty. So far I have had no problems and the bike seems to be well sorted and ...