Yes, I agree you are technically correct. But with re-engineering a casting being the only way I could see a closed-deck conversion to this engine, my point is the elegant NCCR solution has more support than a typical semi-closed deck.
So can we agree with "mostly-closed deck"? :) LOL
Yes, we can agree, what they've designed should be an improvement.
I would worry about heat expansion making the cylinder out of round at the top.
I'd like to see closed-deck still an option, but would obviously expect a higher price. I think it would serve the purpose much better, and costs could be brought down.
A true closed deck cylinder would be the best for sure, but with such limited EBR production, and only a few brave souls who either ride hard enough too 'need' or have enough wallet to 'want' that upgrade, I'm not sure it would ever be a reasonable cost. Reasonable is subjective of course
We all know how the might-as-wells add up when theres a split case on the bench