Grab Bars Wear Down Paint On Plastic?

I went to check out an 02 yesterday, and the bike was in great condition except for this: the owner had removed the two black passenger grab bars, and the paint on plastic just below were the grab bars would be was rubbbed all the way through and showed a black streak on each side. Not too big, about an inch long and an 1/8" wide or so.... but still, it was a visible imperfection.

Is this a normal design flaw that causes the grab bars to rub through the paint or is this an exception on this particular bike. I don't want to bug out about it if its common and every bike is gonna have it.

Thanks

yup mine did this.but the dealer replaced the plastic under warranty.that is why i never keep them on anymore.I think if you put 2 washers between the handle and frame were it bolts on this would give it a litte extra room and not rub.

I have an 02 with 20,000 miles and I take mine off and on all the time and have never noticed anything. if you are lucky you can try and buff the black marks there is a small chance that it could be black from the rubber wearing on them, I doubt it but you can give it a try. i mostly just remove my grab bars and put the plastic cover in the gaps.

Depending on the cost that you are getting the bike for it may be worth it to just replace the rear cowl it will cost you around 318.62 from bike bandit. then you will have an extra rear for those times when you want to try to add something but are worried about if it will scratch the fear fender, like after market saddle bags.

Just a thought!