This is my first post on any forum but thought I would throw my views into the mix
I am currently the owner of a 2005 gs1200. My wife and I are planning to broaden our horizons over the next few years and have started the process of deciding which bikes to use. We have now decided on two bikes rather than one and following the advice on horizons have decided that two bikes the same is the answer. I recently took both the 800 and the 650 for test runs - extending to some 60 miles each on fast A roads (side of Loch Ness), some dual carriageway and single track roads. - My original plan had been to part ex the 1200 towards the possible purchase of one of each spec.
I had the 650 for the morning and was surprised and impressed with its alround performance as I was primarily testing this with my wife in mind I felt it was a bike that a relative novice could take to very quickly - it was confidence inspiring and felt stuck to the road - It also has the advantage of the option of lower seat and lowering kit.
I have to say that whilst the 800 certainly looks the part I struggled to see that it was worth the extra money over the 650- perhaps as I thought this may be the replacemnt for my 1200 my expectations were too high. I returned to the showroom unable to commit to selling the 1200. The current plan is to wait a year see if there are any relability issues with the 650 - if all is ok my inclination would be to buy the two 650,s and spend the money saved on touratech luggage etc

Cheers