I’m happy to make a start Chris, with the significant caveat that so far i have only done 6,500 miles on my 2018 XCx and this has all been on pavement in Europe.

To your XC v XR point i have test ridden both and having bought the XC, it took a week or so to get used go the XC’s 21” front wheel when doing some spirited road riding in the Alps, but for over-landing as you say, an easy decision in favour of the XC.

Compared to my XT660z there is a lot of electronics on the 2018 XCx (at least) I doubt you’d need in adventure motorcycle zone (eg cruise control - which i love in europe). Weight wise and basic ergonomics feel pretty similar.

I nearly bought a 2015 but couldn’t get on with the wind protection at all. Only an issue at higher (motorway speed) but the latest (2018 model) is way better in that regard in my experience.

Engine wise I can’t say i’ve noticed much difference (both engines were/are peaches). They have lowered first gear on the 2018 model which is probably a nice to have if you’re doing some rougher stuff.

From memory it is a 19 litre tank - good for 180 miles/ 300 kms. Think this is the same for any version.

I run Bumot hard cases and a Givi top box (carried over from my last bike). Works well, but as and when the bike ventures out of Europe i’ll be looking at soft bags over these frames.



I’ll be interested to hear from those who have tested theirs more fully. It’s something I have in mind for mine in the future.