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They weren't popular here, due to the price and like you say heavily corked European model. Fitting a wider airbox tube and vortex ECU seems to be the way to go. In the UK Honda even started selling it with their 'power up kit' which was essentially uncorking themselves but think the damage was done as it's now been discontinued. For obvious reasons they're a lot more popular across the pond and I've seen some epic builds.
jambon-
They are such sophisticated bikes - a real Honda. Honestly, you don't see that many of them here because most people are silly and chase numbers. They spend more money and buy 60hp KTM and Husqvarnas, regardless of the fact that the Honda would be better in every way for 90-95% of riders.
Interestingly, they are almost non-existent second hand and absurdly expensive. Which I guess shows how much people like them.
Jung
Doooooope, they're so cool. Looking forward to living vicariously once you locate a good one. Make sure it's fully uncorked!