This has been a good thread to read. I have a 7D already and am looking at upgrading my general purpose lens for it. I currently have a Canon 10-22mm which I love for starscapes etc, but am having a hard time deciding between the 17-55 and the 24-105, both being about the limit of my budget for a general purpose lens. I need to sell my 28-135 because after using the 10-22, the image quality just doesn't compare. Let us know how you like the lens when you end up getting it.

Also if you buy your 7D online, make sure you are getting the USA model, as lots of places are selling whitebox import models that do not have the warranty. You can get they body only for under $1200 at many stores now.