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Most of the bikes I see seem to be in perfect condition. I expect most are just never damaged...maybe they're repaired.
How close are you looking? From 10' away, my SG looks pristine. But get right up on it and you'll see some scratches & scuffs from various & assorted activities. The first scratch kind of bothered me, but a buddy of mine said: If you're gonna ride it, it's gonna get scratched. So, unless you have a show bike or never take it out of the garage, it's gonna happen.
That being said, I'd probably go with the back seat/bungee cord option in your case.
-- Removable sissy bar to put on and stick your t-bags on.
-- Removable saddlebags over the seat and sissy bar brace not under. It wo't touch the paint. I strap the bags to the shocks away from the drivetrain and frame.
-- Soft rubber drawer liner in black. Get it by the roll at Walmart. They use the same stuff in tool boxes. Cut it to fit and put it over any paint that will get rubbed.
-- Same rubber matting over my tank to sit a tank bag on.
I can strip everyhting off in less than 2 mnutes and put it back on in 5 minutes including saddlebags and luggage.
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