Honestly, 1.7 could be considered a major rebuild. KK changed to a new build (21015) and I think it's his best one yet. Definitely the fastest and smoothest in my opinion.
Yes reflashing sucks, but have you tried
Spb backup. I don't personally use it so I can't give you the best reivew, but it has some of those features that will make your life easier when doing reflashing.