i came from a R1 to the Xt660, which is what l should have bought 1st, but my mate convinced me to my 1st road bike.. Hated the road bike as it gave me trouble on the right hand, pins and needles etc
I bought a SM XT 2009 and absolutely love it...great bike to ride to work everyday also.
i put a set of MTC cans on, and a high flow air filter, and blocked the AIS to stop the popping..
i have to say after these simple mods the bike goes even better...
honestly l dont regret it and l reckon its the best bike lve ever had for the road...
mind u ive had on the road 2 x DT175s, XL250RF, XR250RG, NX650 Dominator, and a R1.'
Go for it and ignore the writeup from magazines about the negative things they say about the bike. i did the same thing and really thought twice about buying one and l am glad l didnt take notice of the writeups.