Hello all

I'm Peter (52) from County Durham and recently, following an accident and smashed arm, I find myself bikeless and bereft. I am now considering which direction to go with my next bike.

Under prime consideration is an XT660 Z, hence my arrival at the door of this brilliant forum!

My local dealer has a very nice white one up for sale, and I've been drooling over it for weeks. At 5' 10" and 31" inseam, I'm bloody terrified of the height of the bike having never ridden anything this tall having had an SV650N up to now. Now I' m pretty sure it's possible, but can anyone advise as to how wise it is to lower the suspension, versus customising the seat, and how does this affect handling? Should I even consider the bike? I' m more than satisfied it will do what I need it to, I' m no boy racer and will likely only use lightly for green laning round Northumberland, long days out and some camping trips. Oh and commuting of course, along with the fettling, cleaning and OCD cosseting that go with my obsession! :-)

I' d truly appreciate some help deciding (I haven't ruled out the 660R either). Right, I'm off for a trawl through the archives.

All the best

Peter