All the mfgrs make a really hot, single-purpose 600cc sport bike. The GSX-R, CBR, etc. And then a more general-purpose bike, usually a version of the sport bike but with a more comfortable seating position, more padding in the seat, wider powerband. The ZZR600 is sort of a compromise. Even more general-purpose would be the Honda 599 (aka Hornet). Or a Suzuki SV650 or V-Strom.
If it was me, if I was commuting 100 miles at a time, I'd want something with a full fairing or at least a big ol' windshield. Battling the wind takes a lot out of you. The V-Strom is probably the least sporty of the options here but for longer distances it is the most comfortable and the most general-purpose. And it will do canyon-carving just fine.