Most reliable style of motorcycle?

So I'm curious as to which style of bike is the most reliable. Cruiser, sports bike, dirt bike (street legal).

Not I can already hear the people saying there are too many factors involved to tell but I doubt that is true. Stats can be made for everything. But to simplify this let's take a brand that makes all 3, like honda. You get a cruiser, a sports bike, and a dirt bike all of equal displacement and brand new. You ride each 50 miles to work and back on 55mph back roads every day during summertime.

(All dealer recommended maintenance performed)

Which is most likely to kick the bucket first? And by kick the bucket I mean it will need major repairs. By major repair I mean it needs the engine to be opened or it needs expensive parts or else it will not run.

Which motorcycle is best for me?

I was looking at bikes like the Honda VFR 800 or the Triumph Sprint ST but I want to know what you guys think. My dad goes on yearly bike trips and they do about 500 miles a day and I would like to go with him without having to quit after one day because I'm too sore. However, I want something with some speed, good handling and a sporty feel. I have a lot of experience riding and I'm comfortable with bikes over 1000cc. I ride a 1983 GL1100 right now but I'm looking for an upgrade.

How to fix motorcycle front brakes?

I have a 2001 Honda Shadow Ace (VT750CD). My brakes work but need new pads. The front wheel is already off from something else I was doing. The problem is that the caliper pistons are sticking out a little bit, maybe 1/4 inch. With the new pads installed, there isn't enough room for the rotor to go inbetween so I need to push the pistons in some but I can't just push them in. Is there a problem with the pistons? While I have everything removed, I might as well clean the caliper. Can someone please explain the steps?

Should I:
Unbolt caliper
Pump brake until pistons begin to come out more
Grip and remove pistons
Clean the bore and sand pistons
Put waterproof brake grease on pistons before installing again
Push them all the way in flush before installing new brake pads
?

Should I remove the dust seals/o-rings before cleaning the bore? Any help is very much appreciated.