the "best" all around motorcycle......for me

Some time ago Motorcyclist did a comparison of the KTM Super Duke and the BMW R1200R. It was obvious the writer preferred the KTM. Before proceeding let me say that I own a KTM EXC 450 dirt Bike and love it. So one could never accuse me of having a negative opinion of KTM in general. Back to the road bikes. I just purchased a R1200R because I feel that it is the best all around road bike.....for me. Although I  tested a number other bikes in my personal comparison, the KTM was not one of them. You might ask why since I love my 450? The answer is simple. I think it looks hideous. I didn't even consider trying it. I must confess that I'm "old school" in terms of my taste in motorcycles. I think the Triumph Bonneville is one of the all-time best looking bikes and that most of what is being produced today lacks any semblance of aesthetic beauty. That being said I'll also confess that I'm not particularly fond of the R1200R's looks. However I can tolerate it's appearance because of it's outstanding overall performance. Are there other bikes that do certain things better? Absolutely. My last bike was a Ducati ST3. It certainly outperforms the R1200R but not by much. On the other hand I can comfortably ride the R1200R all day. Not even close for the ST3. Like the BMW automobiles, they've managed to achieve good handling and a comfortable ride in the same vehicle. This is not an easy task. I'm also quite pleased with the abundant low end torque and overall good balance of this bike. These are two important attributes leading to a well mannered, yet fun, bike. The point is that beauty and to some degree, performance, are in the eye of the beholder. If you want to know what is the best all-around bike for you Test ride them. Don't let anyone, including me, make that decision for you. The key, however, is to be honest with yourself as to what you really intend to do with the bike. Think with your head not your heart.