Hi Fellow Bikers. Wasn't sure were to put this post so I stuck it here. I want to get a big, powerful bike - 1,000cc plus. I will use it for crowded commuting in the week, which means I need to dart in and out of and between traffic, so it needs to be slim (even with a top box and cases; I need to carry a lot of stuff for work), but I also would like to do some touring on weekends and holidays. I prefer a more comfortable sitting postion, not racing style. Is there any bike out there screaming for my purchase, do you think? I've looked at BMW tourers, which seem too bulky, and I went and test drove a Ducati ST3 test drive but found the driving position a bit uncomfortable.

By the way, if you know of other bike forums for good feedback, please let me know.

Most all bikes over 1000cc are going to be heavy to maneuver in traffic/commuting. Have you looked at the Honda VFR or Triumph Sprint ST? Both great tourers and two up. Triumph has top box and hard panniers custom made to suit so fit snug to the bike. The latest ST comes with the panniers standard in Australia at least, don't know bout other parts of the world. The mufflers are tucked under the seat so it means the panniers are close to the seat making the bike narrower at the back than the older models. Great bike plenty of HP/Torque but also quite nimble and low center of gravity. Any way check em out worth a look.
Cheers
Cal ;)

Cal, Ta for the tips.

It has all the features you are looking for. Easy to drive in traffic and great for touring. If its 1000cc upwards then you should have a look at this. Its called a honda pan european and at 1100cc upwards. Riding position is upright.

Borg.