I'll never get rid of the GSA work horse. I ride the GSA as much offroad as I do pavement. No struggle at all to justify both. I have test ridden the XR and its a completely different animal

+1 Agree
Because I can only have "1" motorcycle, the XR works best for me (love it, glad I have it and IMO it's a technological wonder!!!!!). However, I've had a 2009 R12GS (put 20K miles on it) and loved and appreciated it and "always" said, and will continue to say that it was "one of the best" motorcycles I've owned.
Anyway, each BMW model has its own character, overall purpose and feel to address various riders needs/ wants. Because of that, "I get it" when someone chooses an R12GS or K1600 Bagger or R12RT or F800 etc. (its Burger King have it your way).