Currently have a 94. Been riding her everyday since 08. So yeah I'm way attached. Think the 93 has 12k miles so its almost a steal. I paid $550 for my 94. Honestly though I'm also looking at a 98 vtr1000. Always had a secret crush on the bike. I know the cbr well. Well enough that I trust this beast could tow no problem. I'm not afraid to get into the corners either but let's be honest though, she has her limits there. The vtr has that edge and its in same price range. Never road a vtr though so I don't know how it'd fair touring compared to the cbr with the way I deck it out. Ill add a picture hour or so from now when I get home.

 

Condolences all around. Major bummer. Props for blowing up an indestructible bike though!

You said your wife rides an SV?? Do yourself a favor and buy one... the carb'd sv650s is just about the greatest bike ever built. Every bike I've ever bought I've loved but it all started with me shopping for the SV...

 

You bought a chain that wasn't designed for such a powerful bike mate. Not bad luck, bad decision...... It's like putting cheap oil in your bike and wondering why it blows up. Unfortunately you paid a heavy price for cheaping out on something. It's a lesson learnt and one you wont repeat I'm sure. Good luck with your search for a new engine.