What type of motorcycle for long rides, adventure, touring?

I'm looking to get back into motorcycling. A bit of background - I took training about 7 years ago and got my license. I rode a brand new SV650S - I've laid it down and did all that good stuff and rode for a few years. I've since stopped but want to pick it up over the next year or 2.

Now, to get back into it, I'll probably be able to talk my friend into letting me cruise on his 125 Honda he has and if I'm lucky, his SV Gladious. Just need to refine my skills.

Now, the type of riding I'm hoping to do is long distance riding, touring, and twists as I am in Calgary and close to the mountains. However, high way riding will be on the list, hell, everything will be.

I'm looking for a bike that is comfortable for long hauls (SV650S wasn't that swell for that) and has some juice in it and can take on heavy loads (luggage) for long trips. My days of riding super hard are over but I want the back up power.

My lead thoughts are directing me to a Suzuki Vstrom 1000 model. The sport Adventure. I've ridden a honda cbr 1100 xx before in terms of Sport Tourers but unsure on the comfort the tourers offer over the adventure styles.

My price range is 12,500ish, give or take, so BMW's are out of the question. Like I say, I want a reliable bike that can get me from Calgary to London and boring roads or Calgary to California coast line on fun roads. I want it to handle the corners but be the most comfortable (ergonomically).

I don't want a pure sport bike and I don't want a cruiser style of motorcycle.