I wouldnt insulate the Thermosyphon pipework either, mostly for the reasons given above by the previous respondents....
When the thermodynamics (which includes thermal losses) is taken into account at the engineering and design stage, the primary aim of this exercise (when performed properly) is to ensure that the Group (in toto) static and dynamic thermal behaviour remains within a narrow prescribed range.
If you then disturb this "equilibrium" by changing the static or thermodynamic behaviour of any part of this hydraulic circuit, you will naturally alter where the equilibrium will now lie. The smart money says that this will realise some magnitude of temperature increase at the Group. This will be different for different makes and designs but if the thermal losses accounted for in exposed Thermosyphon pipework has been significantly reduced, then this gain in thermal efficiency will be transferred to the Group. How much is anyones guess but I would be surprised if it cant be measured.
Its an easy test for you to conduct though, if you feel like a bit of experimentation. The result in the cup is probably way more important than any academic measurable difference though....

Mal.

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