Just thought I'd post a note for anyone considering "moving up" to one of these bikes. I was pretty impressed by the CBR600. I never got to fully wring it out since we were on a demo ride but we did get up to about 140 kph. It has virtually no low end torque but was easily maneuvered on city streets. Definite high end rush once the rpms start to climb but I never got it over 10k rpm. It was not uncompfortable to ride unlike the SV650 and 1000 that I have also test ridden. I could see going some distance on it without too much problem. Getting back on the GS afterwards felt like getting on a bike with ape hangar handle bars by comparison though. It did not seem like the power was out of control at all. Some people describe the 600 sport bikes as being twitchy but the power was easily controllable. Someone used to a GS500 could easily manage this bike (provided they ride within their skills - just like any other bike). I would consider buying one in the future but I'm not ready to give up the GS yet.
The Intercepter had about the same riding position as the CBR which I find unusual since that is supposed to be a sport touring bike. It doesn't feel as refined as the CBR either with respect to shifting handling and engine response. I don't think I would be inclined to buy it.
I can't wait for the next demo ride ... hoping to ride the 1000RR.
What about the 600RR?
Didn't have time to ride the 600RR .... had to get back to work. I might ride the 600RR or the 1000RR on the next demo ride if I get a chance. I understand though that the 600RR riding position is a little more cramped than the F4. For the extra 5 or 6 hundred bucks the 600RR is a better value with the lighter frame and undertail exhaust. The comments I heard at the demo ride was "why would you buy an F4 if you can get a RR for almost the same money." but these are guys that ride gixxers and the like who are not concerned about comfort.