After a random call to another dealer, finally got to ride an XT over the weekend, unfortunately only for 1/2 hour.

The lack of power (compared to my SV) didn't seem that noticeable around town. Unfortunately the dealer was near London so there wasn't much country or fast road to try it out on. Up to 50mph I don't think it suffered from the same vibrations as the KTM and was doing about 3000 rpm at the time so that would make me think it wouldn't be too bad at full motorway speeds. The engine is definitely a bit of a thumper though, considering it was 2012 model they've definately stuck to a tried and tested design.

Compared to the Tiger XC (test rode a few weeks ago) I definitely had to play with the gears more and the ride wasn't as refined but for 75% the cost of the Tiger I can accept some of this.

I loved the commanding view you get from the seat even compared to the XC and it seemed fairly comfortable from someone who's over 6ft. Just about got my feet flat on the floor. Considering the ride height it felt fairly stable on the road and round roundabouts, shame I couldn't get to try it in the twisties.

Overall for fun per pound, it was a very enjoyable bike to ride and it does tick all the boxes but I wouldn't say I fell for it as much as I did the Tiger XC. Ultimately it's going to come down to whether I liked the bike enough to part with the money, the jury is still out on that one.

Have to see what Wales brings and see if a day off-roading with the XT660 brings out the best of her.