Quite happy to further contribute on this, GLG.
Addressing your points: '
uncomfortable riding position vs the 954' . Sure the bike is a cramped position. I haven't sat astride a 954, but I can compare the 2004 directly with my newly-acquired 929. Yes, the 929 has higher bars, and the rider 'triangle' does offer more comfort. The 2004 though, is built to closer replicate GP bikes (as you've read) with the consequence of a more racier ergonomic. At 6'3", I can well understand your concern. For me, at an Anglo-Saxon 5'9", even a Honda Grom is a breeze:grin. For you, there must always be compromise of some sort when looking to share your affair with a sports bike. The alternatives just don't cut it.
As for wrist stress, well yes, once again it's inherent with sports bikes riding positions. I think we learn to focus on transferring weight to our butt cheeks, or with some lower stomach on tank. Others suggest squeezing knees against the tank, but I find that uncomfortable and not conducive to a relaxed riding position. Wrists and forearms will generally adapt to these new stresses.
Trunk and room for tool kit? I was flabbergasted when I opened the rear of the 929. Having more modern bikes, I was just not so used to such a massive space. I think it even has more room than my Citroen C1
:smile. On that basis, I figure the 954 must be about the same size. Shamefully, the 04 is about one third of that. I do have the OEM tool kit in mine, and a Power Commander. That leaves about enough room for a Microfibre cloth and insurance certificate. You might manage to squeeze a disc lock in there, but it could be tight. This could be the reason backpacks were invented:wink.
Agreed on the usable power. I've never found a place to wind mine right up, and not really sure if I'd want to. We get the exhilaration of hitting the magic ton occasionally - in my case on a nearby private road - and we get the pleasure of merely owning one of these beasts.
And finally, while speaking of power, I utter my variation of JFK's famous words:
Ask not what your bike will do, but what it will do for your well being.