The base model Benelli Tornado has a lot going for it – a wide spread of power, plenty of feel from the brakes, compliant suspension, a gorgeous exhaust note and looks to die for. But as I cast an eye over this baby, with its black anodised frame, up-spec running gear and carbon-fibre goodies, I can see that the RS is an Italian masterpiece that has been taken to a whole new level.

For me there hasn’t been one disappointing Fireblade. All of them have been cutting edge motorcycles.

All of them have had brilliant road and track manners and, more importantly, all of them have had that trademark Honda feel of complete control.

As I roll out of Ducati’s driveway and point the Monster towards the city skyline I start conjuring up images in my mind of outrageously long stand up wheelies, massive endos and huge rolling burnouts. Yep. You guessed it. I’m pulling pathetic first gear monos off the lights again. But I’m doing it easily – so that’s something.

I didn’t have time to study the fine curves of the F4 1000 S before I jumped on that day. I’d been lapping the track all morning and I was already pumped. I didn’t even cast an eye over the bike. I just hopped on and went for it, aggressively twisting the throttle and squeezing those brakes as hard as I could. I thought the MV was fast, real fast. And I loved the brakes and the feel from the front end. Side-grip from the Pirelli Diablo’s was great, too, and the torque.

Riding the previous R6 was one of the highlights of my year in 2004. I loved the screamer of an engine, the top-end rush and the drive off turns if the revs were right. I found the storage under the seat helpful more than once and I reckon the bike was simply stunning to look at.

You’re the first journo to ride this bike, mate, but there’s a catch. I’m coming with you on another one. Be at my pad tomorrow at 9:00am sharp. You lead the way.”

Five 600s, fresh rubber, new kneesliders and 48-hours away from the rest of the ‘real’ world with only a racetrack and a mountain full of corners to consider. Squeeze in an overnight stay in a great pub, a couple of games of stick and a big steak and you have motorcycling Nirvana. All at our usual Rapid pace, of course…