I think Erik has done it again. For those in the past who complained about passenger comfort, the new XB12ss is a good choice and for those who like adventure/sport/tourers, the Ulysses (XB12x) should fit the bill quite nicely. If The XB12x came out last year, I wouldn't have gotten my V-Strom and then recently, my XB9sx City Cross! It could have taken the place of both. However, I wouldn't trade either bikes (or my other one) now, as I like them for what they are. As far as the belt for offroad, I wonder. I've heard that they are more likely to be damaged by a rock fragment inbetween the belt and the cogs, but I'm sure Erik would know this and have gone with a new, improved belt that can hold up. I feel he would not have overlooked such an important concern, so I would have to trust him on this. I wonder if the fly/wind screen on the Ulysses could be adapted to my City Cross?
By the way, my purchases on both my City Cross and my V-Strom 650 I can blame (or thank?) Sean-Right on both times!
PS-Thank you Erik!!