I have these in black as well. Just off a 4000 mile ride. Very comfortable. Had some minor scraping going up Pikes Peak (10 MPH decreasing radius turns .... to the right .... uphill).

VPAccessories.com makes a set of acrylic scuff plates which stick quite nicely to the underside of the running boards. Click on their GL1800 accessories and scroll down 'till you find them. About $6.00.