1. Tank pads make a difference!
I installed these on my Suzuki sv650. Fit was ok, didn't match the tank perfectly but close. They were a little longer than I like, cut about 3" off the front.
I taped the pads to the tank than used tape to outline the corners, this makes it easy to know exactly where the pads attach to the tank. I set the pads in the sun for 10 minutes ( 85 here in sacto) really softens the material and makes it easy to work. Start from one of the corners, slowly pull the packing off as you work the pad into the tank, take your time working from the center out. The grip is 9 out of 10 compared to other tank pads I've tried. So far pads have stayed in place.
There is a reason why you see tank pads on the track, the grip really help when you what it!