I think they put stiffer sideboards on the '10 model. As far as the hand warmer issue, yes, the 09's are terrible, but corrected by installing the Yamaheater. Check with "Rockmeister", the owner of Yamaheater, if he also sells a lot of his product to '10 owners as well.
Common issues with XTXs, and their fix:
- - Useless handwarmers--install a Yamaheater module, or at least gauntlets.
- Stock skis submarine in powder--install aftermarket, or Yamaha mountain skis.
- Darting--install double-runner carbides
- Suspension difficult to dial in--rebuild shocks, such as Hygear. Expensive, but worth it.
- Hyfax wear. Tend to wear quickly thorugh the first half of the hyfax, and the stabilize. You can add oversized, or extra wheels.
- Clutch can be grabby for technical, low speed trail riding. Change primary spring or detuned clutch kit, such as SchmidtBros "comfort" clutch kit.
- Wind exposure--put taller windshield on.
- No onboard storage space--wear backpack, and/or install saddlebags
- Difficulty in carrying extra fuel can--install Trail Tank or Tour Buddy auxilliary tank. Otherwise, you can expect 100-110 miles range.
- Overheating--Roest racing sells a vent to replace the panel where the gauge is mounted. Otherwise, add water wetter and scratchers, and possibly extra vents in bodywork.
- Powder performance--the stock 1.25 inch lug track is more for trail riding. If you want to ride more off-trail, consider replacing it with a 1.75