I did almost the same reflection as you... I´ve ride my triple all last summer and I love it. My last one was an R1 and I can tell you that the triple push like a train. Lot of torque at low RPM (so great...). I recommand you the triple all the way... you will not regret it for sure. But I don t recommand it for non experienced rider.
Ps Dont buy the buell...lot of problems with them, and cheap components (check the controls...so cheap...)