Post script, i took an XL out last week, and found it to be a better fit generally, but found it a bit of a handful in the local singletrack, not sure if it was the increased wheelbase or what, i’m erring towards a large with a slightly longer stem and higher bars, 60mm and 38mm renthals. I currently have a large orange (2012 26″) with 70mm and high rise fat boys. Not sure if that helps, the xl felt good in the car park test, but not so much when it got tighter and more technical.
for what its worth i’ve relatively long legs for my height. The XL santa cruz hightower fitted great and handling was superb, but it’s more of a bike than i need and am willing to pay for, although it was really good.