I've added some bits to the TDM to make it more suited to offroad - Higher Renthal handlebars, Barkbusters, Givi Engine Bars, Foam air filter (from XTZ1200) - but it still needs a decent bashplate, radiator protection, and tyres.

For some reason Yamaha decided to put an 18" front wheel on the TDM, which seriously limits off road tyre choice. Basically I need to put a rear tyre backwards on the front, and lift the guard for clearance. If I did this Distanzias will work, as would TKC80's.

Problem is it's still really a road bike and even a minor crash will cause a fair amount of damage. Just rough corrugated roads will shake the plastics apart if I keep riding it the way I have. And it's 220kgs or so which is a lot to manhandle over rough ground. And it has road bike steering geometry which makes it a bit twitchy on rough roads. Basically it's a great dirt road bike for Australian roads, but if I ride it where I want to I will wreck it, and it's too good a bike to do that to it.

The XTZ looks like a good option for me - still able to do some big k days, but lighter and more agile in the soft stuff than the TDM. The only thing holding me back is is it off road worthy enough? It would be great to see some ride reports on the XTZ offroad....