The 929 and 954 forks are exactly the same except for slightly improved valving in the 954 units. The RC51's are about the same too but use different triples and smaller brakes. I opted for 954 units with 954 triples but if you are running stock rc or cbr clipons the RC51 triples will allow for higher mounting. The 929/954 actually give you a adjustment range that includes the stock ride height. I used 954 triples but went with convertibars. You can run the VTR master cylinder but it's not recommended. The RR cylinder has a different flow rating as is matched up with the bigger brakes. Not a good place to pinch pennies.

Be careful! I looked at a set locally that looked straight and when I got them home they were just slightly tweaked. Only noticeable if rolled on a flat surface. Before I bought the second set I had the seller roll them for me and sure enough they were toasted too. Most people don't know they're bent unless its obvious. The lower tubes are usually obvious but not the uppers. I'll bet there is more than one VTR here running bent cbr or rc forks.

As far as performance goes if you adjust them correctly there is no comparison. The VTR's are prone to crashing because of wimpy forks on a bike with an explosive powerband. Stockers are better suited for a slow 600. Not to mention the huge brakes the 929 and 954 had. One thing I didn't even think of before upgrading was the rotating mass. The cbr wheel (with tire and rotors installed) is much much lighter than a VTR wheel without rotors.