That $450 price doesn't surprise me that much but $600 - ouch! A $300 upper for 3 extra gears.

Does the $600 include the shifter, cable and small parts kit?

If I wait for the Alfine 11 to come out, I bet I can get a really good price on the Nexus 8 or even the Alfine 8 or I can plop down the extra cash for the Alfine 11.

I was going to reuse the rear rim that came with the bike so I will still have a matched set. I'd just delace it and relace it using the new hub & spokes. The klinker is, what spoke length do I need.