Well, Barrett--48 degrees is a warm day around here for 3-4 months/year. I pretty much ride all year except for January--lots of ice on the roads then. For sure I will look into the heated grips for the XR
The Uly was the first bike I ever had with heated grips and they make all the difference. Once you lose use of your hands its is game over.
After lots of years of crappy riding gear and mis-matched gear I finally ponied up and purchased an Aerostitch full suit --RoadCrafter(master?). Totally changed my cruising patterns. Not only do they offer good crash protection, but they are warm, wind resistant and dry. Plus you can get into it in a quick minute and over your regular clothes and boots.
No need for extra electric heating--I just wear a down vest under the suit. On really cold stretches you can stick a piece of cardboard over your chest, under your suit and that really helps--yeah funky but effective.
Opto