Took delivery of my new 650XT 'Candy Darling' yesterday. Thought I'd share a few impressions......
What a great bike! Love the thrum of the V twin engine - takes me back to my old Trans Alp, but much smoother and more grunt. Surprised how responsive it is, even two up. Would have no hesitation touring with the wife on board. Comfort is excellent - good seat, natural riding position and just the right height for me at 5' 10". Found the screen caused lots of buffetting in the middle position - changed it to high position and reduced the problem significantly. Treated her to a set of PM racks for throwovers and a Kappa 46 litre box. Both look good IMHO. Wanted a mid size adventure bike having had an R1200GS in the past. Had a Tiger 800XC which was very good but its engine, though more powerful, wasn't as engaging as the V Strom.
New cosmetics - beak and spokes - did it for me and the Gladius engine really has upped the power. Liked the extra touches - big, clear gear change indicator, adjustable forks, air temp display. New Trailwings are a vast improvement on their predecessors but would have preferred Tourances as standard. Auxiliary socket would have been handy....and realistically priced heated grips (£225 is just plain cheeky).
Looking forward to lots of years with Candy Darling ....she really is the one I've been waiting for!
