the gas tank has a mounting flange with bolts in it that sticks up and makes the pad stand up.
also, the whole thing was too long by 2 inches. it fit on the seat pan, and pulled down nicely, but without the whole bike at his disposal he didn't know the tab was there.
So I'll bring the bike down there in the truck and spend the night at my dads while we figure out what will fit and look the best.