Other than the colours, graphics and seat cover there are no visual differences.

The 2008 models had an engine breather catch tank that didn’t have enough baffling in it so it tended to blow oil into the breather drain pipe, but only on long, sustained high speed runs such as on the motorway. A different catch tank was fitted to 2009 on models which cured the issue. Dealers should replace the old one on 2008 models for the new type, but only if you ask them to (it was not a recall). I never asked for mine to be changed and just empty the teaspoon or so of oil out after a long fast run; it’s never bothered me.

There are a fair few reports of regulator/rectifier plug failures on 2008 models (and some that were registered in 2009). Those that failed within warranty had the reg/rec unit and loom replaced by dealers. However, there are many many 2008 bikes that have not suffered this (mine included). There is a suggestion that it was the fact that the connector wasn’t pushed home properly during assembly on some bikes (and not properly checked at PDI). Keeping a close eye on the connector, checking it’s seated properly and using a dielectric grease to protect it will stop potential trouble too.

Other than that you will hear tales of rusting spokes, soggy shocks from 10K miles and a lack of grease in suspension linkage and headrace bearings, but these issues crop up on all model years. How much of an issue the spokes and grease problems are depends entirely on how you look after your bike; re-grease everything early on and you won’t have trouble, treat the spokes with ACF-50 and don’t polish off the zinc coating and the won’t rust.

As far as I can see there is absolutely no reason to be put off a 2008 model; everything mentioned above is either liveable with, repairable, replaceable, or modifiable at very reasonable expense. Bottom line is buy a Tenere, any year, look after it and it will serve you well.

BTW - Welcome aboard XT660.com

__________________