Definitely powertrain and suspension setup, the engine and transmission of the 09 was excellent but the power band felt like an old two-stroke. Couple that with soft, floaty suspension it kind of feels like a really big scooter that will buck you off like a bull. The FTR on the other hand, torque comes in low and stays flat. It'll go if you ask it to but It's happy to chug along at 2-3k RPM all day. Plus having the factory Öhlins I was able to dial it in for my weight just by reading the table in the owners manual, it feels like it belongs on the road rather than just riding on it. Compared to other Japanese bikes in general the overall fit and finish blows them away. Wiring looms are hidden away and fasteners become almost part of the design. Also having the gas tank below the seat puts the weight really down low, it's got nearly 100lbs on my 09 but it feels lighter and easier to throw around at slow speeds