The Proper Commutourer would be the GS-150. Why? The answers are quite obvious...
The 6th gear is meant to provide a good mileage and great cruising capability. this is also helpful in increasing engine life by developing better torque at midrange RPM's. The dead weight of the bike is extremely helpful in heavy crosswinds. I doubt the HONDA could handle that. The Cons of the bike can be a bit disappointing though. The lack of a powerful rear disc and tubeless tires , not to mention the pathetic Lighting are something you'll notice could have been implemented in a better way.
I have a very similar riding pattern as you do, but It's just that I passed out of college and bought this bike. The First and probably the only Mod on my bike is the DC conversion and HID lighting. I'd reccomend it to any tourer. The FE is excellent (50 in the city and 54+ on the highways, depending on how hard I rip her) I've found that cruising on the GS has been very comfortable. I've managed to hold her out at 3 digit speeds on long open stretches on more than a few occasions, and it has always been a comfortable,non brutish affair.
On a personal note, Are you willing enough to do 500 kms/day? I'm not very sure about your touring experience so I really cant say anything now.
All I can say is, take a test ride on a open highway and take the bike into it's midrange and top end. This is where you should check for stability, vibes and braking.
It would be better to ride in crosswinds, since you'll encounter them sometime or the other in a 500 Km/day ride.
Good Luck!
Ragav
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