Had a '99 900SS and, yes, the stock pipes did heat up the back of my legs. Once I put the Remus Ducati pipes on, it stopped barbecuing my thighs and sounded incredible. Also, it's true about engine lugging at lower speeds. My bike's sweet spot was at 80 mph. It thumped along effortlessly and the engine seemed most dialed in at that speed.
I was in the dealer yesterday they have 2017 Supersport demo. I took it for a ride notes the HEAT and the mirror shaking so bad. Other than that great smooth bike