Firstly, I'm sorry I make you feel that way. I know that I too, feel frustrated sometimes when dealing with computer newbs.

As it happens, I didn't ask for advice on what bike to get, although I certainly appreciate the advice you have given. Cost is indeed an important factor, but so are ride comfort, reliability, safety and to an extent, style. I like the look of a cruiser and imagine that I would like the feel of riding one. The reliability of the Japanese bikes has already been strongly impressed upon me by my local mentors. Two of them have Japanese bikes and speak highly of the reliability and engine. Were I able to find a cruiser style bike from a Japanese brand, I would buy that over the Raptor, even if it was more expensive. However other factors, such as safety, might take me to a sit-up bike. I've also considered getting a DS as I've read here that they're well suited to Chinese roads (although I'd like panniers which I don't think are easy to fit to a DS).

Regarding safety, when you speak of the "poor riding position", are you talking about the relatively higher vantage point afford by the sit-up style bikes, being better for awareness?