I opted for the tank sticker thing, so I won't be of mych help there. Partly because I knew a sticker was easy install, but partly because I wasn't sure how the tank would fade in the sun. I know this is after the fact, but just something to think about.

 

you need to take the black plastic coverings on the side of the take off, and wrap it around the tank (look where the front of my bra goes by the black plastic.. it goes there)

 

The split seat is a completely visual swap.

I have had many girls on the back of my bike and they alllllwwwaaayyyyssss love my "banana" seat in comparison to split seats. (my F4 vs SV650, and 929RR, and R6)

JMHO Good luck with the rebuild.

Here is a pic of my flush mounts on the tail. They work great and are very visible.
Let me know what you think.