2019 BMW S1000 XR

[runnerhiker]

the engine rotational rate at cruising speed is too high for me, and that cannot change.

I don't think I would like a chain but they have 3 very good points.
You can change the gearing with a simple socket change.
Chain weighs less than a driveshaft.
A chain is more efficient at transferring power to the rear wheel.

I agree a shaft drive is better, but the difference has narrowed with the o-ring chains. The KTM I traded in had 7K miles and I never adjusted the chain, and the chain and sprockets were in excellent shape at that point. I spray can chain lube at about 500 mile intervals. Rear tire cleaning is about ten minutes using Simple Green and shop paper towels, the waxy lube from the spray can sticks to the chain and it doesn't fly all over other parts of the frame. Not as good as a shaft, but not bad. If I were to take a trip on this bike, I would carry a can of chain lube.

Once I get a seat I like, I would not hesitate to take this bike on any trip. I would not choose it over the RS, but if the RS were not available for any reason, I would mount the RS bags on the XR and go.