I am 52 and have ridden high power sport bikes for over 30 years. I have fallen off twice, both times my fault. Without a doubt the hayabusa is the ultimate bike for me. I've had all the italian exotics and jap racers. Traded a guzzi sport and a sukuki tl1000r for the hayabusa. no comparison. 20 years were spent riding the california coastal mountains in the twisties. You can ride fast safely if you are careful (and have a little luck.) I have never been hurt on a bike. If I die tomorrow on my bike I will say it has all been worth it. I always wear full protection, Arai helmet, belstaff jacket, racing boots, in cold weather full leather (which is not overly comfortable). If below 40 degrees i wear gerbing heated riding suit.
If you want to go fast it is much easier with proper eye and ear protection. We have no helmet law in my state and it's mostly the harley crowd sans helmet. This is natural selection in process.