Recently had the PLEASURE of spending some time riding a 2014 690. Loved it. Enjoyed the handling, at no time did I think that a steering damper was necessary, not like the previous models I rode. Wind protection is a must, sitting at 130km/h for long periods of time is uncomfortable. Loved the suspension, even thou the bike was not set up for me, I really enjoyed the way the bike held it's line through corners and smoothed out the corrugations. What I did find is that it did not require much rider input, was very relaxing and untiring to ride at pace.
Definitely high on my list for the next bike, when I decide to buy again.