Quite honestly, I find 7 strings more comfortable than a 6 nowadays. I do have fairly large hands I guess, and I have been playing them for over 10 years now, which makes up a 2/3rds majority of the lifespan my guitar playing; perhaps as a result I'm more nonchalant about it than someone who's only flirted with an extra string. However, in recent years I've tried a few 8 strings, and the transition to those was just as painless - the only thing stopping me buying one is the price tag for another custom instrument, since there are no 8 string production models that I like.
The initial transition for me, from what I recall, was swift and painless. I don't find it hinders lead playing or bending at all. Many others who've tried to swap over disagree - I guess it very much depends upon the individual. Plenty of people are happy with a de-tuned six string, which in general is cheaper, has more hardware options and vastly more production models to choose from, and are generally better catered for by most manufacturers. Not every company is so willing to cater for ERG's as BKP is - so it's not just about playability. Things are improving with time, however, compared to 10 years ago you have a multitude of options nowadays.
The best advice I can give you is to play a few - my preference is for ESP style necks (for example, see the Horizon NT7). Lots of people like the Ibanez 7 string necks - I don't, personally, so it's probably important that you try a selection of different brands to get a decent perspective.
