There is a guy named Dennis that is taking his Pannigale across Europe right now. He has already done the many of the states and Pacific NW.
His pictures are out of this world too.... Highly recommended. :thumb:
http://advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1000338
I will admit to being in the 'never finance a toy' camp.
My suggestion (after seeing your choices) are either a Ninja 600r or Triumph speed triple. Buy it used and save a boatload. You can find them for 4-7k easy and usually they have had quite a few farkles added already.