You can install it fine on the 10gb partition. If you use it for a while and decide you don't like it you can just blow the partition away and use an XP CD to repair the MBR.
I've got an XPS M140 with a 9 cell battery. I can take it to class with me and use it for 4 hours of note taking and web browsing then use it that night for a couple hours as well. I love it!