From the Dept. of Redundancy... ??? (I posted this up before I saw your wave-off...)
The Carrozzerias make a definite positive difference in handling. The steering is quicker because it requires less force to turn the bars since there's less inertia. Basically, it makes the 'Busa feel like a smaller, more nimble bike. Now I'm used to the 'new' feel, but just after the change the difference was very clear. What's not as demonstrable is there's theoretically been improvements in acceleration, braking, and suspension compliance due to the lighter rims. These aren't as noticeable seat-of-the-pants as the steering improvement, because they're so integrated into the overall feel of the bike. But I know improvements in these areas are there, nonetheless. Personally, if it were for 'looks only', I wouldn't have upgraded the rims. At least, not as a priority...
As for quality and look, these wheels have no flaws. I got mine with the stock bearings. If I had to do it over, I might have gone for the ceramics, though. If I raced it at all, I'd have definitely got the ceramics. There are some dust-seals on the front rim that aren't included with the wheels. According to the installer, the stock rims have these, and the Carrozzerias are machined for them, as well. These seals are not required items, but be aware that if you want them, you'll need to purchase them from the dealer. (The dealer ordered some for me, but I haven't gone back in to get them, yet. It's an added line-of-defense for the bearings. But then, the bearings are sealed, anyway...)
As for my purchase experience, as I said, I ordered these from Greg and Terra. They are special order (cuz of the color) but even so, I had them in less than three weeks. There was no tax, and no shipping charge. And the price was outstanding. And yes, I am digressing some here to tout GPW. But they deserve it. I couldn't have asked for a better buying experience. I got a great price on these, but still it's not an insignificant amount (at least, not to me) and having had things go so smoothly was comforting, and a representation to me that these people have their s**t together. Smooth all the way.
