my first klr - luggage recommendations?

[webfox2uk]

The bars on the KLR are a bit akky. The silver powder coating (if that's what it is) is looking worse for wear. New bars aren't overly expensive but I wonder if there's a cheap and cheerful way to smarten the originals up. Tony K UK

[global_touring]

Sorry for the cross post if any of you are part of the KLR Adventure forum. Hello, I just placed an order for my first KLR 650 which also happens to be my first Kawasaki as well. I plan on installing a set of side cases and possibly a top case. I am considering both aluminium cases (Jesse Luggage, Happy Trails, Moto Sport Panniers, etc.) as well as Givi cases. Intended use will be for travel within North America. I'd like your comments on the following items with respect to the luggage brands mentioned above. 1) what mounting points are used on the KLR? 2) do any of the side covers have to be notched or cut away for installation of the mounts. 3) if you have detailed photos (.jpgs) of the mounts installed on your KLR, any chance you can e-mail them as attachments. 4) have you had any problems with the bags that you have? Do they leak? Have the mounts or bags cracked due to vibration? If anyone has installed a set of Jesse Odyssey bags, is there any reason why one can't install a set of bags without the exhaust cut- outs. Their web site shows a left side bag with the exhaust cut-out when the muffler on the KLR is on the right side. Doesn't make a lot of sense!!! What I'm looking for is a well thought out installation. Quality, fit and finish are at the top of my list. Thanks for any help that you can offer, Alex Alex's BMW Motorcycle & Global Touring Page http://www.ott.igs.net/~ace