The new R3 does indeed have much better ground clearance for twisties; HOWEVER, only a few out of 100 riders of these huge motors will possess the skills requisite to push the older R3R to, or beyond, its max cornering capacity. 1) Unless you be one of the few . . . fagetaboutit. 2) The extea porwer to push the R3Rs extra weight past the R3 is easily attainable. 3) NO comparison - the R3R is a far superior touring motor. 4) Save lotsa $$$$, buy the R3R - IMHO.