Yes, I've heard the horror stories. I found that correct valve settings makes the whole difference. Mine starts 2 kicks cold and 1 kick warm. It has a very specific starting procedure though.

Its not tuned any differently, only difference is the engine is narrower by 30 mm, lighter flywheel and crankshaft, bigger carbs and airbox. That's it.

No cush rubbers on the TT, but hasn't bothered me. I guess it comes down to what you're used to.

I've got a Sebring exhaust on mine, which is holding up fine.

The TT isn't a perfect bike though...it vibrates like hell. During the 900 km/ 14 hour day I put in on it, I lost the feeling in my throttle hand for several days afterwards. The seat is narrow and another seat or Airhawk is a must in my opinion. The headlight ain't worth crap...might as well carry a candle lantern on a stick. I'm changing my whole front fairing to a LED set up.

The lack of a battery can be a pain, when wiring up GPS, charger or other electrics. The alternator puts out 185 watts, so consider that too.

The TT is faster than an XT, but a KTM or water cooled XR650R has an extra 15-20 horses on it and will blow it out of the water, both in acceleration and top speed. In reality the TT cruises best at 110 km/h (speedo speed) but will easily hit 130 during passes.

I would have preferred something that handles asphalt better with a higher crushing speed, but I can't afford a bigger/newer/lighter/faster bike. Its what I have and its perfectly capable. So I'll make do with it.