I've never done it with a router. Can a Bosch 1617 perform the task? Or
should I consider a PC 7518 or something else in the table. I haven't
tried the 1617 yet, but would hate to kill the thing trying to do
something it wasn't designed to do.

I have cut a few on my 1617V (you will need variable speed, no matter what
router you use) and it works, but is a real pain. If you plan on doing more
than once in a while and can afford it, get a larger router.