Hi Briggy,
my 2007 Fireblade has just done the rectifier and stator. Found out it was this problem after buying a new battery and having the bike drained of all power after several hours riding.
If you can get a spare battery that is fully charged, go for a ride, however make sure you have your other fully charged battery with you. Being stranded is not fun.
My baby is currently in being fixed under warranty. Honda are aware it is a problem, however as yet there hasn't been a recall such as was done with the '04/'05 Fireblades. Now I am 3 weeks without my ride, waiting for the part to be shipped to Oz. Not a happy chicka.
cheers
Ree