Welcome adberg
You have already had some great advice from some very experinced members of this site.Biking is what you make it, ride what you want, how you want wearing what you want, going where you want,with who you want its just money and time.
As for the weather,My attitude is, it rains in this country, more than some places ,not as much as others, its somthing I cant do anything about but it wont stop me riding.
Remember it can be pouring down before breakfast and bright sunshine for the rest of the day. I was riding the other day in the rain on a motor way and I found my self grinning from ear to ear I dont know why but thats what riding a bike and in particualry a Ducati does to you, I am sure the others would agree, well perhaps not about the rain.
A wise old sage once said "
Its better to live as the tiger for a day,than a sheep for a life time.
Now go forth young Jedi get your self trained buy the machine of your dreams( well the one you can afford) and join the ranks of the enlightend.
best regards
Fireduke
Ps Abby National are doing 0% for a year on their new Card.