The paint is durable! I have over 15k miles on my 6 and there is not a single paint chip on any painted surface. If "paint swirl marks" are a "anal issue" for you, don't buy a 6! Most folks are simply applying several coats of "Liquid Glass" and they are "golden". This is one remarkable bike/machine and I'm beginning to get the impression, the paint issue is blown out of proportion! Maybe it's just me, but I'm well beyond the days of paint/chrome perfection! The 6 is a "rider" pure and simple! Buy it, ride it like you stole it and the swirl marks, if any, will be the last thing on your mind