Trentbob,you are certainly entitled to your opinion.
Most guys and gals on here will tell you they love the simplicity of thier 650.
They will agree they vibrate,but you got to understand the machine.
The 650 engine is 41 year old technology, you are riding an antique,a classic,a dinosour.
Does it go like stink,no.Does it handle good,no.Could it use another gear,yes.Does it vibrate,oh yeah!
But for me,that is the cool part,it is raw and un-refined.
I love working on my bike alot,more so than riding it,but thats me.
To own one of these bikes you must either be "hands on" or have "deep pockets" to have someone work on it for you,because it is going to need maintence,up grades,and it just might break down.
Would I say that the 650 is a good commuter bike,sure, if your commute is not on the interstate.
If it is,the 650 is not for you,you will find it vibrates far too much to be comfortable,and you will learn to hate it.
You would be better off with a 4 cylinder bike.
Just my opinion.