When I got the Fila999r it was always a short term deal as I intended to sell it on make a few ££££
But, I did find that it was a good 30mph quicker than my 749s in most situations. I went down roads I know quite well, and on my 749 I would be doing a 100mph ish and it felt quick, down the same roads the 999r I was doing 130mph and it felt effortless. I did not sell the 999r cause it was a hand full, but, I did think that it would be easy to lose your license.
I went to the 2004 749r because I have always thought these will be the classic R to have. Great looking bike, homologation model, big tank and all the kit as standard.
I'd say if you have the cash go for a 749r. Buy 2nd hand and let the initial owner pay the depreciation. Pay no more than £9k and be happy in the knowledge that you will get most if not all of your cash back when you sell in a few years time.
Bet your mates on the Jap bikes can't say that.
As for CSS, go for Rockingham, book a Travelodge at least 3 weeks in advance and stay for £10 mid week, £26 max. Depending if you are north or south Manchester I would have thought you could do Rockingham in 2 1/2 to 3 hours.
[Edited on 23-5-2006 by Carbon749]