I would feel the same! As you know i've gone through my fair share of bikes and failures, and the PTSD post major motor repair usually goes away after I put some miles on the bike.
Same motor. This may sound strange, but I would much rather do highway miles on the SM than the pilen bikes. The stock gearing is tall. I don't shift to 6th til about 80 mph, and I am much more comfortable riding upright.
You can go aftermarket for QS, but only for upshifts
http://www.accessoryinternational.com/product/healtech-iqse-husqsh-p2b-quick-shifter-easy.html
If the 701 comes out with the same electronics package as my 690 SMCR, i'll get one and you can buy my old 690. I promise it will be the cleanest bike you've ever seen!
One huge upgrade on the 690 over the current 701 is the apex suspension. It's far superior! The valving is really good, and sprung very well.