Which Bike?
If you have never ridden in the Alps, read Rob's full article regarding bike choice.
There is a profound difference between riding in North America and riding in Europe. The difference is as big as Corvette vs. Porsche. North American roads in the 21st century all lead to the interstate system, designed by a military general, straight and firm. Frequently with enough tarmac to land a warplane in times of crisis.
European roads were beaten into existence over thousands of years by the feet of farmers, pilgrims, traders, warriors, knights, and invaders. They may be paved now, but the tendency for smaller winding roads that resemble the land still exists. For a rider, these roads are what a motorcycle was made for. A smaller, more nimble machine outranks raw horsepower and luxury attachments every day of the week.