There is no doubt the finish is very soft and I would also agree that a clear coat would do alot to help the finish be more durable.
A good quality wax when maintained properly will go a long way to help minimize the small scratches. However, when you or a passenger go to get on the bike and hit a saddlebag you are definitely going to have to do some finesse polishing to correct the damage.
I am considering having a clear 3M installed on the rear deck, tops of the bags and the upper fairing. Once I have a good 4 coats of wax i will see how durable it becomes.
Black is a bugger to keep nice and I have to agree with most on here that Honda could of, and should have had a better finish on this bike.


Beagle