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Back to the post; I think tank panel protection depends on garment worn. Some of the heavier materials, seaming, stitching and patches do, these days, definitely scuff the tank and panels. Back in 2008 my GSA never suffered any such problems, but first noticed it on my 2014 RT when wearing the Tourshell suit. I've changed ridding gear a couple of times since then so not too sure if it's the new garment materials, the paint finishes or a combination of both. My point; All summer I've been using the soft BMW rider trousers on a 2016 GSA...no tank/panel marks whatsoever.
You make a fair point, however this does not apply to the triple black. If you wore your trousers on a tb it would still scuff the sticker area. It IS a problem on these bikes