I think this is why many people have a problem wiith the new pricing strategy. They've set an SKU back to $499, and it's certainly a better value, but we know it is an SKU they want to clear out. They won't be making 60 gigs anymore in favor of the 80gig model, so when the 60 gigs are gone, they're gone.
Of course the 80 gig model will take its place at $499, but the question is, when? There's a possibility we are looking at a similar stunt here, and when the 60 gigs sell out this holiday the PS3 may become effectively $599 as it was last holiday. My bet is that they won't drop the 80 gig until after the holiday, even if the 60 gig sells out. It's too many price drops too fast. Spring of 08 looks more likely for a $499 80 gig (sans MotorStorm)
Either way, the 60 gig at $499 is a sweet deal. Anyone who was waiting for this type of price should jump on it while it is available