I must confess that I was tempted by the new 1600GT, seriously considered getting one. Then I wondered if it really is so much better than the 1600GT I've got and have decided no. The reverse gear I have done without, though it's arguably a luxury it's needed from day one. The gearshift-pro is fun but I can't say I've missed not having it on the two GT's I've owned. I've never found too much wrong with the fairing, screen or suspension on my current (or past) GT. The communications interface (music, phone etc) I won't use. The outright performance and engine characteristics seem to be completely unchanged. The SOS thing.... well, I just hope I never need to test it in anger on any bike....not much fussed by the colour change..... and it'll still eat tyres, that's for certain.
I'll go along to the London show. If it wows me... but I suspect I won't be changing my mind.
Thanks though for putting up the reviews etc. If anyone is looking for a real touring bike, that can be hustled across Europe, around hairpins, down wiggly bumpy lanes, one or two up, with more luggage space than a small car and really is all day comfortable... go try one out.