A motor can easily draw 10 times its running current on start up. I don't know what the current curve for the newer "soft start" motors looks like - though I suspect they will not be too common on TF tools for a while. If you size for 1 1/2 to 2x your running current and stick with heavy exension cords I should think you would have little if any problems.

As for the Honda engines - they are VERY quiet. I run an EU2000i for my camper and some tool work. I can barely hear it from 30' away and the Honda has an excellent reputation for reliability. The Tecumseh does not have a repuration for quiet and I've not heard great comment on relialbility. Yamaha has a good name as well. Check the specs for output harmonics (lower is better) when looking at the generator end of things - this too can make a difference in tool life.