found this pic while browsing, looks like this guy's planning a BIG tour on his xt 8) they seem to attract every type of rider...

Looks very good doesn't it?

All I can say is that he must have a REALLY tough ass!

yep it wears it quite well pete. are the seats really that bad btw?

The new XT's seat is very comfy.

yep it wears it quite well pete. are the seats really that bad btw?

Not initially, but after about 50 miles it does feel a bit numb TBH.

You can get a Corbin for them but it's £200! :shock:

That XT looks like it's ready for some serious Touring 8)

I'd like to see a shot from the other side to see how he's mounted the pannier....cos that side does stick out a fair way due to the silencer being mounted inside the panel.

I'd like to see a shot from the other side to see how he's mounted the pannier....cos that side does stick out a fair way due to the silencer being mounted inside the panel.

I bet it looks a bit outta balance from the back view :?

That's what I'm thinking Scott...cos when you look at an XT600E from behind it does look lopsided due to the inflated sidepanel.

The RH pannier could be smaller like on the Deauville and some BMWs.

That's what I'm thinking Scott...cos when you look at an XT600E from behind it does look lopsided due to the inflated sidepanel.

It seems like alot of Big-Bore (in particular) Thumpers are like that nowadays :?

What a good looking set up, this XT really looks the part.

Mine now has a top box on Yamaha's own brand carrier. The carrier is not pretty, but it has very useful bungee points all over which meant that when we went to Scotland I could lay and attach my tent and sleeping bag across the back seat securely. Top box is 35 litres and takes cameras, utensils, clothing etc. All kept nice and narrow with no effect on the handling. A big tour would need a set up like the bike in the picture. My concern with panniers is the way they can change the handling characteristics of a bike and top boxes can often cause head shakes due to turbulence.