Thanks again guys... lots of great thoughts to consider.
I finally made a decision and this AM decided to go for the 2016 1299s with some basic accessory upgrades. I will pick it up next Saturday after I return from business trip.
I fell in love once I test rode the bike, and the fact that the bike's design has matured / optimized with all the bugs sorted out is a big plus. I actually think when the 2017 comes out, the demand for 2015-2016 model will go up, since 2017 with Euro 4 would most likely have the the dual exhaust sticking out (and I heard it will be quieter than 2016). Honestly, I dont care for more power even if 2017 has 300hp
... this one has plenty for me to chew on.
Thanks again, and looking forward to be asking you all kinds of rookie questions in the coming months.