Hey Hacksaw,
I want to try softening and smoothing my 2014 XT's ride for all the rough pavement we have around here in south Louisiana. I think the 18" stock rims are the culprit. My Geolander ATS' are finally ready to be replaced but I want to try putting the same 17" XV rims that you have on my (marine blue pearl) XT. I'd love to know if downsizing the rim an inch and gaining some sidewall helps to soak up bumps and irregular pavement. Also, I keep reading that the XV rim offset is different from the XT - 114X5 vs 100X5 - is that true? Did you need an adapter? Lastly, what tire would you recommend for quiet and comfort (longevity) for the XV rims, and for the XT rims for that matter in case I can't get my hands on some XV rims easily. Thank you so much!