A couple of possibilities if you're buying in Europe: - Yamaha Fazer 600 : half fairing, fairly cheap to buy/run, decent handling/performance
- Honda CBR600F : loads of choice depending on budget, excellent handling, reliability and easy to sell on when you're done
- Honda VFR750/800 : same as above
- Yamaha 600 Thundercat : cheaper than similar CBR's, though not as popular
If, as you say, you're happy to stick to tarmac'd roads then any of these will do a good job, and shouldn't cause you any hassle. Any decent dealer will be able to kit you out with hard or soft luggage, or check out ebay for used stuff.
Anything under 600cc won't be as comfortable on a long tour, and if your buying used the cash savings won't be that great.
If your budget is a bit tighter then consider the Yamaha Diversions, Suzuki SV650 or GSX600/750.
For something with an off-road look that will tackle a bit of light off-roading then look at the Honda 650 Transalp.
BMW's are expensive for what you get, even the F650 singles - you can get a better machine for less money elsewhere for you sort of use.
The most important thing is make sure you buy a popular, mainstream bike that's going to be easy to sell at the end of the trip, without losing too much money.
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