baby_ninja wrote:doesnt say much for sales of the bug does it??

Couple of factors to consider:
1. the dollar has been quite strong for the last couple of years, so maybe they are cheaper to buy now than back say, 4 or 5 years ago.
2. there are more bikes on the road nowadays, and the turnover for manufacturers is growing dramatically, therefore more volume equals greater discounts.
3. anyone that pays rec retail for a bike these days is either a newbie or cant negotiate, or just has too much money and says, yeah fark it just want one.
4. most litrebikes can be had for the same price anyhows, and the bikes aren't getting any shitter..therefore value for money is increasing with all brands with you getting more technology for your dollar..except maybe MV's.
peace out young padawan, there is nuttin wrong with the bug!