I've been running 42 in front with no cupping on the 023GTs.
I gave up on mounting the GTs and paid somebody to do it. They're cheap enough to almost cover the cost and I don't have to do it. The ride's not harsh at all and grip and mileage are great.
I've had the Rick Mayer for about four years and both my wife and I have been very happy with it. I got the leather and it's still hanging in. We had the luxury of riding in so we got to talk to him about the style we chose and we got the shape just right. Might be a nice vacation...
I've got the leather but I think that if I had it to do over again I'd get vinyl. The leather isn't that hard to care for but vinyl's cheaper and you don't need to worry about its getting wet. Maybe I'm insensitive but I haven't noticed any advantage for leather.
Garauld sanded out the scratches and painted my bag after the bike was knocked over. Looks as good or better than new now. Great work, great price, he got it done very quickly, and he's a great guy too.
I have to agree with Toe, the hard case provides a very nice backrest for the wife, is easily removed, and holds lots of stuff. Whatever you choose, have a great time in the springs.
I find that odd too. I touch the peg feelers with an Ohlins on the rear (a little more ride height) but I've still got chicken strips. Maybe I'll have to start riding like meosborn and grind the hard parts off so I can lean it a little further.