The Revolution Voyager (the 2 seat version of the ill-fated Mini 500) had a T bar sytem as well. They only made one prototype before the company went bust but inside it looked just like an R22 (at least from the photos I saw.)
I was a bit worried about how easy the T-Bar system would be to use when I was preparing for my first lesson about 6 years ago. Once I had about two minutes at the controls I didn't notice any problems. Now I find getting into anything with a conventional cyclic seems awkward and uncomfortable. Also having the floor space clear in front of the passenger is very useful. You know the Pax isn't going to bump, lean on it or move it at some critical time. Also frees up floor space for other stuff if needed.
I agree with everyone about the comments on the doors. Most times that I have taken people there has been concerned looks as the gap widens and the wind rushes past their left ear. If anything needs fixing its the doors.